How to connect to the NBN in 4 simple steps

We’ll help you get your NBN connection up and running in no time.

Getting connected to the NBN

Connecting to the NBN for the first time? It's a simple process that we'll break down for you in 4 simple steps.

  1. Check your address is NBN ready
  2. Compare NBN plans and sign up
  3. Prepare for your NBN connection
  4. Set up your modem and Wi-Fi

Step 1: Check your address is NBN ready

First things first. Check if your property can connect to the NBN and what technology is available to you.

The type of NBN connection you have can influence your internet speeds and the plans you can choose.

Pop in your address to get started.

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Select the exact address from the list:

If, for some reason, you're unable to connect to the NBN at your address, there are still alternatives for you to get online, such as home wireless internet or mobile broadband.

Step 2: Compare NBN plans and sign up

If you're at step two it's safe to assume you can connect to the NBN and know what technology type is available at your address.

Now for the fun bit. Compare NBN plans from a range of providers to find your perfect fit.

This is the step of the process where you have the most control over your NBN performance.

Click the blue button to start comparing plans. If you're unsure what to consider when choosing a plan or provider, the guide below the table will sort you out.

Compare NBN plans

Step 3: Prepare for your NBN connection

After signing up for a plan that fits your budget, your new provider will take care of the installation part of the process.

They'll let you know if a technician needs to visit your property to finalise things, but if you already have an NBN connection, you can skip ahead.

Step 4: Set up your modem and Wi-Fi

Once the installation is complete, all that's left to do is set up your modem and Wi-Fi to game, browse, work and doom scroll to your heart's content.

In most cases it's as simple as plugging your modem into a power socket and connecting it to an NBN cable connection.

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.

How much does it cost to switch to NBN?

Standard installation is usually free after the NBN is available in your area.

The only exception is if you happen to be in a new development or "greenfields" area, when you'll have to pay a one-time $300 fee.

There may also be extra charges if your home needs any wiring or cabling upgrades, or if you want something beyond a standard installation.

Or, if you want to upgrade to a faster type of NBN connection such as from FTTN to FTTP.

Costs vary depending on the type of property and the work needed, but expect to pay in the thousands for this.

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"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!"

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Frequently asked questions

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Editor I Tech and utilities expert

Mariam Gabaji is an editor and tech and utilities expert at Finder with 12+ years of experience as a journalist. She's committed to helping households cut through the industry jargon and save money on their bills. Her expertise is often featured in media including the ABC, Yahoo Finance, 9News, 7News, A Current Affair, The Guardian, SBS and Money Magazine. See full bio

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Mark Neilsen is a writer at Finder, specialising in streaming, broadband and mobile. He looks for deals on all those services and keeps you abreast of any changes to see what's worth it for you. He has over 20 years' experience in print and digital media and while at Finder, Mark’s expertise has been featured in Yahoo Finance, The New Daily, Ad News, Tech Guide and news.com.au. In his time at Finder he has done over 300 articles on streaming, mobile and broadband. In his time away from Finder he is trying to get through the watchlists of the 11 streaming services he is currently subscribed to. See full bio

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23 Responses

    Default Gravatar
    LindaOctober 20, 2018

    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?

      AvatarFinder
      JeniOctober 20, 2018Finder

      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

    Default Gravatar
    PeterMay 12, 2018

    Is there any NBN plans for aged pensioners at discount rates?

      AvatarFinder
      JeniMay 12, 2018Finder

      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

    Default Gravatar
    carloFebruary 18, 2018

    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?

      Default Gravatar
      AshMarch 8, 2018

      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

      AvatarFinder
      JonathanMarch 7, 2018Finder

      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

    Default Gravatar
    SueOctober 17, 2017

    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

      Default Gravatar
      MariaOctober 17, 2017

      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

    Default Gravatar
    DavidSeptember 16, 2017

    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.

      Default Gravatar
      MariaSeptember 19, 2017

      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

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