Getting home internet (NBN) in Australia
How the NBN works, how to check your address, and how to choose a speed and provider.
In short
Most homes get internet through the NBN (National Broadband Network). NBN Co builds the network, but you buy your plan from a phone or internet provider.
What to do
Check your address on the NBN site, then choose a provider and a plan. You buy from a phone or internet provider, not from NBN Co.
What you need to know
- Your address, to see whether the NBN is available and which providers serve it
- Pick a speed for your household using the ACCC's evening-speed labels: Basic (under 15 Mbps) for browsing and email, Standard (at least 15 Mbps) for HD video, Standard Plus (at least 30 Mbps) for 4K video, Premium (at least 60 Mbps) for 4K video plus online gaming
- Compare the typical speed between 7 pm and 11 pm, which providers should advertise, not the maximum speed
- Ask the provider whether anything at your address limits the speed before you sign up
Not covered here: home internet that does not use the NBN. If a provider will not fix a problem, the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman handles disputes. This site does not recommend any provider.
Check your address (NBN Co) ↗List of NBN providers (NBN Co) ↗Broadband speeds explained (ACCC) ↗