How do I work out which NBN plan is best for me?

Plan cost: compare the monthly fees of NBN plans across different providers . It may also be worth looking at taking advantage of promotions or discounts if available.
Contract terms: determine whether the plan comes with a contract. Many plans these days offer flexibility with month-to-month options, while others may have fixed-term contracts. Consider your preferences for flexibility and potential exit fees.
Data allowance: examine the data allowance included with each plan. Consider your monthly data usage and choose a plan that aligns with your needs. Most NBN plans today offer unlimited data , but it's still essential to confirm this.
Setup and other fees: look out for any setup, activation or installation fees. Some providers may waive these as part of a promotion or if you sign up for a longer-term contract.
Included equipment: check whether the plan includes a modem or router. Some providers offer free modems, while others may charge for them. Confirm if the equipment suits your needs and whether you can use your existing modem instead (should it be compatible).
Peak speeds: ensure that the plan can consistently deliver speeds at or near its advertised maximum during peak times, such as in the evening. Some providers offer satisfaction guarantees that speeds won’t dip below a certain level at any stage.
Coverage and availability: verify whether the NBN plans you're interested in are available in your specific area in the ACT. Some plans and technologies may not be accessible everywhere, such as in areas without FTTP or HFC connections.
Extra features: consider any extra features or services included with the plan. Some providers bundle entertainment options like streaming subscriptions, while others offer additional perks such as static IPs or priority customer support.

To find the best internet plan in the ACT, consider your internet usage habits, such as browsing, streaming, online gaming or working from home. Compare plans based on speed, data allowance, contract terms and extra features. It also may be worth assessing the reliability and customer service of providers.

Why am I not experiencing the speeds advertised on my NBN plan?

Several factors can affect NBN speed, including network congestion, Wi-Fi interference or using older equipment which doesn’t support your speed tier. To address this, ensure your modem and router are up to date and your Wi-Fi setup is optimised. Contact your provider if the issue persists to discuss possible solutions or plan adjustments.

How do I test the speed of my NBN connection?

You can test your NBN connection speed using various online speed testing tools. Make sure to run the test on a device you’re most likely to be using on the network, as this will provide an indication of the speeds you’re likely to receive.

Do I have to switch to the NBN when it becomes available at my home or workplace?

While NBN availability often results in the disconnection of existing copper or cable services, you aren’t obligated to switch immediately. However, if you’re relying on an ADSL2+ connection, this will eventually be phased out, so you may need to switch to the NBN before then (unless you decide to go with a home wireless or alternative fibre connection).