NBN plans for seniors
Looking for a simple, wallet-friendly NBN plan for someone over 60? We compare speed, cost, customer support and phone bundles. Prices start from just $30 a month.
Key takeaways
- An NBN 25 plan is the best option for most seniors: this is fast enough for day-to-day internet including email, browsing, video calls and movie apps like YouTube and Netflix.
- Some plans offer senior discounts, but they're not guaranteed. To qualify, you'll need to present a valid Seniors Card or Pensioner Concession Card.
- You can save money by bundling your home phone and NBN plan, but pay close attention to the ongoing cost - most plans increase the introductory price after 6 months.
What's the best NBN plan for seniors?
The best NBN plan for you will depend on a number of factors, but the most important consideration is speed. (This also determines the monthly cost of your plan.)
The NBN currently offers 6 speed tiers, ranging from NBN 12 (Basic I) all the way up to NBN 1000 (Ultrafast.)
The fastest plans are only available on specific NBN connection types, but you likely won't need to worry about that.
For most seniors, NBN 12, NBN 25 or NBN 50 will be enough. These plans work on all connection types.
To decide which plan type is best for you, take a look at the table below.
| NBN plan | Main online activities | Household size | Average plan price |
|---|---|---|---|
| NBN 12 (Basic I) | Web browsing, emails, social media | 1-2 people | $64 |
| NBN 25 (Basic II) | Web browsing, emails, social media, video streaming (e.g. Netflix, YouTube) | 1-3 people | $73 |
| NBN 50 (Standard) | Web browsing, emails, social media, 4K video streaming, many people online at once | 2-5 people | $87 |
We analysed fixed-line NBN plans in Finder's database to calculate the average monthly costs for October 2025.
Note: You can still stream videos on an NBN 12 plan, but expect to receive lower image quality and occasional dropouts.
Did you know?
Some NBN providers use their own unique branding for each speed tier. (e.g. - "Everyday plan" instead of NBN 25.) The maximum speeds are always the same for each plan type.
What are the cheapest NBN plans for seniors?
NBN 12 plans are usually your cheapest option, but there are limits to what you can do on these plans. (High-def video is basically out.)
If you regularly watch online videos or just want to download files faster, look at an NBN 25 plan instead. On average, these plans are $12 more expensive than NBN 12 plans but you can find cheaper options by shopping around.
NBN 50 plans are really only necessary for seniors who want 4K-quality video or use multiple devices at once.
You can compare plans across all three speed tiers in the following table:
Compare other products
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How we picked theseHow the Finder Score helps you find a better broadband plans
We designed the Finder Score to simplify your search for the best NBN and Home Wireless plans. By analysing hundreds of options from over 40 providers, we evaluate pricing, speeds, data allowances and plan features. Each factor is weighted and combined to generate a score out of 10 — helping you quickly spot the most competitive plans on the market. Read the full breakdown.
Did you know?
NBN installation is free across all plans. All you need to pay for is the internet plan and modem. (Some providers will give you the modem for free if you stay on their plan for a set period - usually 24 months.)
Do I need unlimited data?
Back in the early days of dialup internet, data usage could be astronomically expensive.
Thankfully, most NBN plans come with unlimited data. This means you won't be charged extra no matter how much internet you use.
A small number of providers have data caps of between 100GB-200GB. These plans are usually aimed at seniors looking for a so-called "simple connection".
Most of these plans do not charge you for going over your cap. Instead, your internet speeds are slowed down for the remainder of the billing cycle.
Our advice is to avoid these plans. Many unlimited data plans are equivalently priced, so there's really no benefit to choosing a plan with capped data.
NBN plan checklist for seniors
Choosing the right NBN plan for you will largely comes down to how you use the internet.
Here are a few key factors to consider.
- Reliable speeds: Always check the typical evening speeds when choosing your plan. This will be the most accurate indication of the speeds you'll receive at home. (If you're not sure how much speed you need, start with a slower plan and upgrade later if needed.)
- Home phone line: NBN home phone services work just like your old landline, except they now take and receive calls over the internet. If you want a home phone, it works out cheaper to bundle the plans together. Some providers, such as Telstra, provide home phone lines with NBN plans free of charge.
- Home entertainment bundles: Some providers let you bundle streaming services or pay TV packages at sightly reduced prices. In addition to saving money, this comes with the convenience of a single bill. These extras can add around $10-$25 to your monthly bill, so decide if it's worth it.
- Contract terms: Most plans are month-to-month, but some offer discounts or free modems when you stay on a plan for 12–24 months. Unless you're confident in the provider, it's best to avoid lock-in contracts due to potential early termination fees.
- Modem requirements: New NBN users will need a compatible modem. Most providers will let you add a modem to your plan during the sign-up process. This will be configured to their network making it easy to set up. If you already have a working NBN modem, look at plans with BYO options to save money.
- Watch out for promo pricing: Many plans offer introductory discounts for 6-12 months. Make sure you know the ongoing cost after the promo ends before signing up to a plan.
- Tech support: Look for providers with a strong reputation for service. Is phone support available, or are they online-only? Are their support staff based in Australia? Do they offer extended operating hours on weekends? Some providers rely solely on online chat, which may not suit all seniors.
Our expert says
"Seniors have taken up mobile phones with enthusiasm, but many also still want a landline. When I helped my mum get her NBN needs sorted, that was a key requirement. We went with NBN50, which is plenty fast enough for ABC iView streaming. My other tip? Compare mobile plans at the same time - if the landline is being used for most calls, don't pay for inclusions you'll never use on the mobile."
NBN senior and pensioner discounts
A small number of NBN providers run deals specifically targeted at seniors. These usually come in the form of affordable tailored plans, rather than flat discounts.
Here are the current offers we could find:
- Aussie Broadband. Aussie Broadband sells a range of seniors-only NBN 12 plans that come bundled with a home phone line. Prices start at $50 per month.
- Flip. Flip offers a senior's discount of up to 9% on selected plans. To get receive the discount, you'll need a Seniors Card, Pensioner Concession Card (PCC), Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) or Department of Veteran's Affairs (DVA) Pensioner Concession Card.
- Telstra. Eligible concession card holders can get an exclusive $65 Starter Internet Plan. This plan comes with 50GB of data and unlimited standard national calls.
It's worth noting that senior-specific plans don't always provide the best value, especially when you factor in promotional discounts on normal NBN plans.
Telstra NBN plans for seniors
Telstra is Australia's biggest network provider, but it doesn't have plans specifically designed for seniors. (The aforementioned Starter Internet Plan is aimed at multiple concession card holders.)
With that said, Telstra plans do provide a few perks relevant to seniors.
- 4G backup: Telstra modems come equipped with a 4G SIM card so you can continue to use the internet during NBN outages. This is especially useful if you have telehealth requirements. (You won't be charged extra for mobile usage.)
- Free phoneline: Some Telstra NBN plans include a home phone line with unlimited local, national, mobile and 13/1300 calls.
- 24/7 network threat protection: Telstra automatically blocks malicious calls, scams and malware.
- Face-to-face support: In addition to phone and online chat, Telstra's customer service can be reached in-store, with hundreds of retail stores across Australia.
- Best plan: Tesltra's $89 NBN 25 plan is a good option for seniors who want to watch shows on one or two devices.
Telstra does charge premium prices for its services, so look elsewhere if price is your main concern.
Optus NBN plans for seniors
Like Telstra, Optus doesn't offer senior-specific NBN plans. Its plans include several features that may appeal to older Australians:
- Reliable speeds: In the ACCC's Measuring Broadband Australia report, Optus consistently loaded website pages faster than average, taking just 2.9 seconds.
- Reliable network: Optus also had the lowest average rate of outages per day in the same ACCC report.
- Optional home phone line: You can add a landline to selected Optus NBN plan for an extra $10 a month. The plan comes with unlimited calls to local, national and Australian mobile numbers.
- SubHub subscription: Seniors who enjoy streaming can manage services like Netflix, Stan and BritBox through their Optus NBN plan and save up to 10% depending on how many subscriptions they bundle.
- Local support options: Optus offers customer service via phone, online chat, email, and over 300 retail stores nationwide—important for seniors who prefer in-person or phone-based help.
Aussie Broadband plans for seniors
Aussie Broadband is one of the only providers with NBN plans specifically designed for seniors.
Here are a few things in its favour:
- Phone + internet: All NBN seniors plans come bundled with a home phone service. You can choose between unlimited local, interstate and mobile calls, or pay as you go (PAYG.)
- 100% Australian-based support: All Aussie Broadband call centres are based in Australia, making it easy to troubleshoot over the phone when something goes wrong.
- Easy setup: You don't need to be tech-savvy—Aussie Broadband handles everything from appointment scheduling to modem setup, so you can get online with minimal fuss.
- Trusted provider: Aussie Broadband was has a stellar reputation with customers. In Finder's 2025 Broadband Customer Satisfaction Awards, it ranked #1 in all categories including reliability, trust, customer service.
All Aussie Broadband seniors plans are NBN 12 only. For faster speeds, you will need to look elsewhere.
Flip plans for seniors
Flip offers 3 NBN plans exclusive to seniors. These plans are basically identical to its non-senior plans, but are slightly cheaper.
Depending on the plan, you can save between 3% and 9% a month.
- Cheap prices: Flip is one of the cheapest NBN providers with plans starting at under $40.
- Fast speeds: Typical evening speeds match the maximum on all plan types, meaning you get what you pay for.
- Satisfaction guarantee: Cancel within the first 14 days of signing up to receive a full refund.
iiNet NBN plans for seniors
iiNet may not be as huge as Telstra or Optus, but it has some solid NBN deals and is well known for its customer service. Here are a few things you might like about iiNet:
- Free phoneline: All iiNet NBN plans include a VoIP home phone line. By default, calls are charged at pay-as-you-go rates, but you can upgrade to unlimited standard Australian calls for $10 a month.
- Modem options: iiNet offers a high-speed modem for $99 upfront. If you already own one, you can bring your own (just check compatibility first.)
- 24/7 phone support: iiNet provides 24/7 customer support over the phone for all broadband services.
TPG NBN plans for seniors
TPG also lacks dedicated plans for seniors, but it does have some of the best value on the market overall. Here's some of what TPG has to offer:
- Price Beat Guarantee: TPG will beat any eligible competitor's price over the first 12 months that you stay on the plan. Eligible competitors include Aussie Broadband, Belong, Dodo, Exetel, Optus, Superloop, Tangerine and Telstra. You can submit a claim within seven days of signing up.
- Optional home phone line: Add a home phone service to your NBN plan. You can choose between pay-as-you-go (PAYG) or $10 unlimited call packs.
- BYO modem option: Seniors who already own a compatible modem can avoid extra equipment fees.
Are there any alternative to the NBN?
If you want to use the internet without signing up to the NBN, there are several options to choose from.
Wireless home broadband
Wireless home broadband (also known as mobile home internet) is one of the most popular NBN alternatives with Australians.
These plans use 4G and 5G mobile networks to connect you wirelessly to the internet, just like a mobile phone.
The speeds on these plans are often faster than a low-cost NBN plan, especially if you have good mobile coverage in your home.
Prices start at around $60 a month, but you can usually find generous discounts that last up to 6 months.
Compare wireless home broadband plans
Mobile broadband
These plans are similar to wireless home broadband, but they use a portable mobile device instead of a fixed modem. This allows you to stay connected to the internet outside the home. (While using your laptop in a café, for example.)
These plans are capable of delivering faster speeds than the NBN and can also be a lot cheaper. (Under $15 a month.)
However, you will need to pay close attention to the monthly data allowances. The cheaper the plan, the less data you get so choose accordingly.
Compare mobile broadband plans
Satellite internet
As the name implies, satellite internet plans bounce internet signals to your home from space. Most satellite internet providers in Australis use the SkyMuster satellite system, which is technically part of the NBN.
There's also Starlink which is a private satellite internet service launched by Elon Musk.
Prices are more expensive than the NBN and you may also need to set up a satellite dish.
These plans are best suited to seniors who live in very remote areas where options are limited.
Compare Starlink satellite plans
Frequently asked questions
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