The rollout of the NBN was declared complete in late 2020, and as of June 2023 more than 12 million premises are able to connect, and at least 8.5 million have an NBN connection.
If you're yet to connect for the first time, it's a simple process that can be done in just a few easy steps:
There are many different types of NBN connections available. The connection you have available at your premises will influence what speeds and technology you can access.
Not sure what connection type you have? Enter your address to find out which NBN technology you have and what plans you can get.
"I've been with Telstra for 12+ years and 2 years ago, I tried to change to a cheaper provider. I was sold a great package by Optus, but when it came to connecting, Optus realised they didn't have a line in my street. They gave me the option of either going wireless or paying to install a connection line, which is very expensive. I ended up going back to Telstra. Always make sure you check the plan is available at your address before you leave your provider!"
Now that you know what connection type is available at your address, you can start to compare NBN plans from a range of providers.
This is the step of the process where you have the most control over your NBN performance, so it pays to be informed.
While offering the same service, there are many differences between providers. There are a few main things to keep an eye on when comparing plans.
The NBN offers 6 speed tiers. Measured in megabits per second (Mbps), each tier determines how fast your download and upload speeds can be.
Each provider will display a typical evening speed on its plan to show what speeds you'll be able to get during the busy hours of 7–11pm. This is a helpful comparison between plans on the same tier.
When it comes to NBN plans, some providers charge more for the same service. Make sure the price you're paying is worth it, whether it's getting you more included extras or because you're more comfortable with a certain provider.
The speed tier you choose will also affect the cost of your plan. Higher NBN speeds usually mean higher plan prices.
Find out more on how to compare NBN plans with our editor in the video below.
Once you've signed up to a plan that matches your budget and needs, your new provider will arrange the installation of your service. They will let you know if it's necessary for a technician to visit your property and finalise the installation.
If your property has an existing NBN connection, you can skip to step 4.
The type of NBN technology you have at your place will determine what type of hardware you need and whether a technician is required.
| Technology | Technician installation required for first time connection | Hardware involved |
|---|---|---|
| Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) | Modem Power supply unit NBN connection box Utility box | |
| Fibre to the Node (FTTN) | Modem | |
| Fibre to the Building (FTTB) | Modem | |
| Hybrid Fibre-Coaxial (HFC) | Modem NBN connection box Utility box | |
| Fibre to the Curb (FTTC) | Modem NBN connection box Utility box | |
| Fixed Wireless | Modem NBN connection box Outdoor antenna | |
| Sky Muster satellite | Modem Satellite dish NBN connection box Power supply unit |
Here's a quick breakdown of what hardware might be involved during the installation:
If a technician is required to come to your place to connect you to the NBN, expect the appointment to last a few hours. You, or someone over the age of 18 who can act on your behalf, needs to be present on the day for the duration of the appointment.
If you need equipment installed by a technician, you need to determine where it might be best to go. This would depend on where your power and cable outlets are located.
Once your provider has confirmed that your place is connected to the NBN, you'll need to set up your modem and Wi-Fi so you can start your online activities.
In most cases it's as simple as plugging your modem into a power socket and connecting it to an NBN cable connection. From there you just connect your devices to the modem to get online.
Your NBN provider will provide you with detailed instructions on how to set up your modem. Some even have "how to" videos to help you through visual aids.
| Response | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| Easy | 49.58% | 36.4% |
| Somewhat difficult | 41.04% | 47.32% |
| Very difficult | 9.38% | 16.28% |
Get the fastest internet available in Australia from providers like Telstra, Optus, TPG and more.
NBN 250 is the second-fastest speed tier, ideal for large households with heavy internet users.
Find out why typical evening speeds matter when shopping around for an NBN plan.
NBN 12 is the go-to entry level plan for those who just need the basics like browsing the web and checking emails.
We've scoured the Australian NBN market for the best NBN plans to suit your different needs.
FTTC plans offer NBN speeds of up to 100Mbps.
NBN 25 plans are generally more affordable if you're a light internet user and don't need fast speeds.
NBN 100 plans are good large households, as well as enthusiastic gamers or streamers.
Cut down on your Internet bill with these cheap NBN plans for under $50.
We help you decode NBN connection types in Australia.
New house, no landline phone, do we need to get a line installed to get nbn? Using net gear 4gx wifi for internet at the moment.
Hi Dori,
Thanks for your question.
With NBN connection, you don’t need to have a home phone line. NBN broadband plans can be provided with no need to keep an active telephone service. Check out our guide on a landline for internet connection for more details.
Cheers,
Liezl
Was wondering, we are in Perth and fixed line connection option is available. I have lived in my house for 3 years the premises is 20yrs old. Have phone points but I’ve never had it connected so don’t know house phone number and whether or not the line still works. This is a semi rural area.
Hello Wolfcast,
Thank you for your inquiry.
We need to do a serviceability check on your address to confirm whether the line in your house is still active. You don’t need to worry about the phone number as your provider will tell you if you can use the old number or get a new one, also if you can do self-installation or you need a technician.
After confirming that there are services available, you can choose on the list of providers by weighing your household needs. You may click “Go to Site” green button of your chosen provider to proceed with your application.
Hope this helps.
Cheers,
Jonathan
I currently have ADSL with active PSTN line. I also have 2 VOIP numbers with VOIP Handsets. How will switching to NBN impact the VOIP? I need to be able to keep the existing numbers and may also look to getting services from a different provider.
Hi Dominic,
Thanks for reaching out to us. Please note that we are not affiliated with any company we feature on our site and so we can only offer you general advice.
In most cases, ISP can bring your existing telephone number over to the NBN network. You can keep your existing numbers and it will not affect your VOIP.
If you already own a modem/router, then we suggest that you check with its manufacturer to see if it is capable of supporting NBN broadband.
Typically your address can be upgraded to NBN broadband with little to no downtime. More often than not you can continue to use your existing services until your new NBN equipment has been installed and your service has been activated.
Remember, Moving to NBN broadband will not necessarily cancel your existing broadband and phone services. Once you’ve upgraded, please contact your existing provider to ensure your old services are cancelled, otherwise you may continue to be billed for them.
Hope this information helped.
Cheers,
Rench
Why are they only installing FTTN in my area instead of FTTP like many other areas have already?
Hi Terry!
I can sense your disappointment with this development. :(
NBN Co is the one who decides which type of technology will take place in a certain area. However, they are offering the NBN Technology Choice program should you want to pursue FTTP. Here are some of the NBN technology choice programs you can check.
If you think FTTP request is too expensive, we have some tips on how you can improve your FTTN speeds.
Hope this helps.
Cheers,
Jonathan
With the NBN is it one house at a time that gets turn on, or is it that a whole area has to be connected before it is turn on.
Hello Rockey,
Thank you for your question.
Once NBN services become available in your area, it is time to migrate your existing landline phone and internet service over to the new network. Your current service provider may contact to inform you that the NBN has arrived at your location or nbn™ will notify you by mail for details about the upgrade process. Basically, NBN has to setup first within your area before you can avail their service.
I hope this information has helped.
Cheers,
Harold