How internet plans work in Australia
Most Australian homes access the internet via the National Broadband Network (NBN). The technology type at your address (FTTP, FTTN, HFC, fixed wireless, or satellite) determines the maximum speeds available. ISPs purchase wholesale access from NBN Co and resell it as retail plans at six speed tiers from NBN 12 ($45 to $55/month) to NBN 1000 ($120 to $140/month).
Since every ISP accesses the same physical NBN network, the differences between providers are pricing, peak-hour congestion management, and customer support quality. The ACCC Measuring Broadband Australia report independently tests how much of the advertised speed each ISP delivers during the evening peak (7pm to 11pm). This is the single most useful comparison metric.
Our take on choosing an internet plan
Start with NBN 50. It suits most households of 2 to 4 people and costs $65 to $80 per month. The jump from NBN 25 to NBN 50 is only $10 to $15 and makes a noticeable difference. NBN 100 is worth the upgrade for larger households or heavy simultaneous use. NBN 250 and 1000 are overkill for typical household use.
For ISP choice: Superloop (101% ACCC speed delivery, $64 to $109/month) and Aussie Broadband (97% speeds, Canstar 2026 winner, $69 to $129/month) offer the best balance of performance and value. Tangerine and SpinTel ($49 to $79/month) are the budget picks. Telstra ($80 to $140/month) delivers the fastest speeds but at a significant premium.
Check the free FTTP upgrade. If you are on FTTN or FTTC, NBN Co's Fibre Connect programme may offer a $0 upgrade to full fibre at your address. This is the single most impactful improvement you can make to your internet quality.
Compare internet plans at your address
Enter your postcode to see which speed tiers, technologies, and ISPs are available.
Compare internet plansACCC peak-hour speed performance (top providers)
| Provider | Download (% of advertised) | Plans from | Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Superloop | 101% | $64/month | Australian |
| Telstra | 100% | $80/month | Australian |
| Aussie Broadband | 97% | $69/month | Australian (Canstar 2026) |
| TPG | ~95% | $60/month | Mixed |
| Tangerine | Limited data | $50/month | Australian |
Source: ACCC Measuring Broadband Australia, 2025-26. Figures are for NBN 50 tier during peak hours (7pm to 11pm).
For a detailed breakdown of what each speed tier actually supports and who it suits, see our NBN speed tiers guide. For rural and remote areas where NBN is limited, see our Starlink vs NBN comparison.
