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!— Raj Lal, publisher at Finder
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% |
If you're sick of slow speeds on the NBN, or just can't get connected, there are fast 4G/5G plans available for you.
Bringing your own modem across when you sign up to a new NBN plan could save you a couple hundred dollars.
Get the fastest internet available in Australia from providers like Telstra, Optus, TPG and more.
Whether you're looking for the cheapest plan or discounts available, we'll help you find the best NBN plans for seniors.
Mobile broadband has the potential to reach faster speeds than the NBN, but can be less reliable.
With the NBN officially rolled out across Australia, see how it differs with older ADSL and cable technology. Are we better off with NBN?
When the internet goes down, turning it off and on again is sometimes a viable solution.
Living in rural or regional Australia and need fast Internet? NBN fixed wireless uses radio signals to get you online.
FTTN uses the existing copper phones lines, with a mix of new fibre optic cables, to get you connected to the Internet. But it is any good?
My mother only has a home phone currently. She doesn’t have a computer or internet connection and will not be getting one. What does she need to do to connect to the nbn?
Hi Linda,
Thank you for getting in touch with finder.
First, you need to check if nbn is available in your mother’s area. Once it’s available, you need to call the service provider you wish to have your mother’s home phone service connected with for a tech visit. Please note that old plans may not be available and home phone plans are basically bundled with the internet service.
I hope this helps.
Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any other enquiries.
Thank you and have a wonderful day!
Cheers,
Jeni
Is there any NBN plans for aged pensioners at discount rates?
Hi Peter,
Thank you for getting in touch with finder.
Although concessions are available on most services for pensioners, there are no discounts available on broadband plans. However, there are a few ways to get the best value for money on an internet connection. I suggest that you contact providers around you like Telstra, TPG, Dodo or Optus regarding your senior discount or ways to cut your monthly subscription fee.
Prices and service vary drastically depending on location. The Government is taking steps to improve the infrastructure through the NBN but this service is still in its early stages.
As a friendly reminder, while we do not represent any company we feature on our pages, we can offer you general advice.
Yes, there are some
I hope this helps.
Have a great day!
Cheers,
Jeni
I have been given the outdated FTTN technology by NBN Co which provides a poor overall experience even though I have an excellent service provider. Am I subsidising the consumers who were given FTTP? If so, is there any compensation available from NBN Co for customers like myself?
Hi Carlo,
Thank you for reaching out to us.
One of the disadvantages of having a Fibre to the Node (FTTN) connection is that the farther you are in the node the slower your speed connection becomes unlike with FTTP, the fibre is connected directly to the premise so it allows faster uploads and downloads.
You may contact NBN Co at 1800 687 626 to have more information about the distance of your residence from the node and the options to have your connection speed up.
I hope this helps.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to us again if you have additional questions.
Cheers,
Ash
Hi Carlo, thanks for your inquiry.
If you are dissatisfied with your NBN service, it would be best to contact your retail service provider first. If your complaint is not resolved to your satisfaction, you can contact the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman (TIO).
I hope this helps.
Best,
Jonathan
We are being put onto fixed wireless . Providers told me we have to go on Voip as the old copper
lines will be turned off. I understand this is not correct for fixed wireless, as we have little or none
mobile reception we need to keep landline
Hi Sue,
Thanks for reaching out to Finder.
You might want to reach out to the providers directly regarding your concern so they may advise on what they can offer for your preference on keeping your landline.
You may find compare providers on this page on Fixed Wireless NBN Plans as well as read up on the service. Once you have chosen a particular plan, you may then click on the “Go to site” button to proceed with your application.
Please enter your complete home address and make use of the filters so you can see your options.
I hope this helps.
Best,
Maria
Nbn FTTC is about to be connected to my house.
Existing telecom copper has a central splitter fitted (original reason for fitting no longer exists).
Do I need to remove the central splitter, or can it be left in place.
Hey David,
Thank you for your inquiry.
In general, the necessary equipment to switch to NBN connection would be provided and installed by the NBN technician.
As the installation procedure differs between providers and also depend on your present connection, this information would be best confirmed directly from the installer.
You may check on our table for your preferred provider, click on “Go to site” to be directed to their main website where you can check for their contact page.
I hope this helps.
Best,
Maria