Either way, changing internet providers might seem like a difficult process, but it's actually very easy.
Once you pick an internet provider, you tend to stick with them. But there are dozens of reasons why you might want to switch; perhaps you’ve found a cheaper plan or a faster one. Or maybe you’ve had a disagreement with a provider and want to take your business to a competitor.
Here's what you need to know about changing providers, including how long it takes to switch, the costs involved, and any equipment you might need.
We've broken this guide up by various internet technologies.
How to switch NBN providers
If you're already connected to the NBN, changing NBN providers, you should be moved over within hours. The process should be painless.
Equipment Needed
Nearly all NBN plans come with a new NBN-ready modem or router, or the option to add one on. Many NBN providers give you the option to bring your own modem if you already have one, which means you won't need to pay any fees for new hardware.
Getting a new modem from your NBN provider tends to come with some strings attached. If you're not paying for it outright, you may need to pay out the remaining value of the modem if you've not been with the telco for long enough (typically two or three years) or return the modem to avoid paying a hardware fee.
Step 1: DON'T cancel your existing plan
Some people think you need to cancel your current NBN plan before changing providers, but this isn't true. This will leave you without internet for longer than necessary. Keep your current setup until you have locked down your new plan, provider and equipment, and you are ready to make the switch.
Step 2: Make sure you are out of contract or if there's a better time to leave.
Check your current plan to see if there's any time left on your contract. If you’re in the middle of a long-term contract, you could be hit with early cancellation fees. If you're almost finished, it could be worth waiting a little longer to avoid additional fees.
Most NBN plans are contract-free now, but you may need to pay out a modem fee on some providers. If you've gotten a new modem at no upfront cost, leaving early can mean paying a prorated hardware fee for your modem. In some cases, you can return your modem to avoid paying a hardware fee.
Note that some internet providers, like Superloop, ask for 30 days notice ahead of cancelling an NBN plan. If you don't provide notice, you may get charged for an extra month, even after you change to your new provider.
Step 3: Research and choose your new NBN plan and provider
Identifying why you're switching is a great start to narrowing down a new provider. Faster speeds, better customer service, bundling options, better extras... There are plenty of reasons people switch, so work out yours and start reading reviews, asking friends locally who they are with and if they're satisfied.
Trying to work out which plan is best for you? Check out some of the cheapest NBN plans in our database, sorted by speed tier, below.
If you just need a basic connection, it could be worth considering an NBN 25 plan. You can expect download speeds of up to 25Mbps and upload speeds of up to 5Mbps. Most online activities can still be done on an NBN 25 plan, but it will start to buckle if you have too many people using your connection.
|
#1
|
SpinTel
All Fixed Line nbn®
Home Starter 25/10
$41/mth
Min. cost $41
|
|
#2
|
Tangerine Telecom
All Fixed Line nbn®
Value NBN 25/10
$42.90/mth
Min. cost $42.90
|
|
#3
|
Dodo
All Fixed Line nbn®
nbn25 Unlimited Plan
$43.99/mth
Min. cost $43.99
|
|
#4
|
Moose NBN
All Fixed Line nbn®
nbn 25/10 Value
$44.80/mth
Min. cost $44.80
Link not supplied
|
|
#5
|
Flip
All Fixed Line nbn®
Editor's Pick
Unlimited Premium nbn25
$48/mth
Min. cost $48
|
|
#6
|
Belong
All Fixed Line nbn®
NBN Starter – Unlimited
$49/mth
Min. cost $49
|
|
#7
|
Kogan Internet
All Fixed Line nbn®
Bronze Unlimited
$49.90/mth
Min. cost $49.90
|
|
#8
|
Swoop
All Fixed Line nbn®
nbn® Home Casual
$54/mth
Min. cost $54
Link not supplied
|
|
#9
|
MATE
All Fixed Line nbn®
Crikey nbn 25/10
$55/mth
Min. cost $55
Link not supplied
|
|
#10
|
Superloop
All Fixed Line nbn®
Everyday nbn25/10
$58/mth
Min. cost $58
|
NBN 50 plans are affordable and a good option for households with between two and four people. An NBN 50 plan will ensure everyone in your household is able to partake in their favourite online activities, whether it's streaming movies and music, online gaming or video calling with overseas friends and family.
|
#1
|
amaysim
All Fixed Line nbn®
NBN50
$45/mth
Min. cost $45
|
|
#2
|
Belong
All Fixed Line nbn®
NBN Standard Plus – Unlimited
$55/mth
Min. cost $55
|
|
#3
|
Dodo
All Fixed Line nbn®
Editor's Pick
nbn50 Unlimited Plan
$57.99/mth
Min. cost $57.99
|
|
#4
|
Moose NBN
All Fixed Line nbn®
nbn 50/20 Premium
$59.80/mth
Min. cost $59.80
Link not supplied
|
|
#5
|
Tangerine Telecom
All Fixed Line nbn®
Value Plus NBN 50/20
$64.90/mth
Min. cost $64.90
|
|
#6
|
Flip
All Fixed Line nbn®
Unlimited Family nbn50
$68/mth
Min. cost $68
|
|
#7
|
Swoop
All Fixed Line nbn®
nbn® Home Everyday
$69/mth
Min. cost $69
Link not supplied
|
|
#8
|
Superloop
All Fixed Line nbn®
Extra-value nbn50/20
$69/mth
Min. cost $69
|
|
#9
|
Kogan Internet
All Fixed Line nbn®
Silver Unlimited
$69.90/mth
Min. cost $69.90
|
|
#10
|
TPG
All Fixed Line nbn®
nbn50 Unlimited Plan
$69.99/mth
Min. cost $69.99
Link not supplied
|
NBN 100 plans are the next logical step if you don't think NBN 50 will cut it for you. You get twice the download speed, meaning your connection will go as fast as 100Mbps. Most NBN 100 plans have upload speeds of 20Mbps, which is the same as what you get on NBN 50. NBN 100 plans are now largely only available for those with FTTN, FTTC, or FTTB NBN technology types. Those on FTTP or HFC can get an NBN 500 plan for the same price instead.
|
#1
|
amaysim
FTTN, FTTB, FTTC
NBN100
$50/mth
Min. cost $50
|
|
#2
|
Belong
FTTN, FTTB, FTTC
NBN Premium – Unlimited
$59/mth
Min. cost $59
|
|
#3
|
Dodo
FTTN, FTTB, FTTC
Editor's Pick
nbn100 Unlimited Plan
$62.99/mth
Min. cost $62.99
|
|
#4
|
Moose NBN
FTTN, FTTB, FTTC
nbn 100/20 Elite
$63.80/mth
Min. cost $63.80
Link not supplied
|
|
#5
|
Tangerine Telecom
FTTN, FTTB, FTTC
Speedy NBN 100/20
$67.90/mth
Min. cost $67.90
|
|
#6
|
Flip
FTTN, FTTB, FTTC
Unlimited Turbo Boost nbn100
$69/mth
Min. cost $69
|
|
#7
|
Kogan Internet
FTTN, FTTB, FTTC
Gold Unlimited
$69.90/mth
Min. cost $69.90
|
|
#8
|
iiNet
FTTN, FTTB, FTTC
nbn Home Fast Liimitless
$69.99/mth
+ $10 Upfront
Min. cost $79.99
Link not supplied
|
|
#9
|
Swoop
FTTN, FTTB, FTTC
nbn® Home Fast
$72/mth
Min. cost $72
Link not supplied
|
|
#10
|
Superloop
FTTN, FTTB, FTTC
Family nbn100/20
$74/mth
Min. cost $74
|
NBN 500 plans are the "new NBN 100" for those who have a FTTP or HFC NBN connection. These offer download speeds of up to 500Mbps at the same price as an NBN 100 plan. They're only a few dollars more per month than NBN 50, while offering ten times the speed. NBN 500 plans are the best value option for those on an eligible technology type.
|
#1
|
amaysim
FTTP, HFC
NBN500
$50/mth
Min. cost $50
|
|
#2
|
Belong
FTTP, HFC
NBN Fast – Unlimited
$59/mth
Min. cost $59
|
|
#3
|
Tangerine Telecom
FTTP, HFC
Speedy Max NBN 500/50
$59.90/mth
Min. cost $59.90
|
|
#4
|
Dodo
FTTP, HFC
Editor's Pick
nbn500 Unlimited Plan
$62.99/mth
Min. cost $62.99
|
|
#5
|
Moose NBN
FTTP, HFC
nbn 500/50 Turbo
$63.80/mth
Min. cost $63.80
Link not supplied
|
|
#6
|
Flip
FTTP, HFC
Unlimited Fast Speed nbn500
$69/mth
Min. cost $69
|
|
#7
|
SpinTel
FTTP, HFC
Home Turbo 500/50
$69/mth
Min. cost $69
|
|
#8
|
Kogan Internet
FTTP, HFC
Gold Plus Unlimited
$69.90/mth
Min. cost $69.90
|
|
#9
|
iiNet
FTTP, HFC
nbn500 Liimitless
$69.99/mth
+ $10 Upfront
Min. cost $79.99
Link not supplied
|
|
#10
|
Swoop
FTTP, HFC
nbn® Home Megafast
$72/mth
Min. cost $72
Link not supplied
|
Step 4: Back up any data
If any data is dependent on staying with your original provider, make copies now. The main consideration would be an
email address tied to your provider.
Step 5: Check equipment compatibility
Chances are you won't need a new modem, router, or modem router, but it's worth finding out if yours is compatible first.
Step 6: Get ready for the switchover (it's quick)
Your new ISP will take care of switching your internet (and home phone plan, if you’re into that sort of thing) over to your new plan. In most cases, your NBN switch is pretty painless – you can expect no more than an hour of downtime while the change is made.
When you're signing up for your new plan, look out for the 15-digit code called the AVC ID on your bill from your current provider. Your AVC ID is a unique ID that identifies your service, and it helps confirm you're authorised to transfer the service.
Step 7: Cancel your old service
This one is important, so don’t forget! In some instances, your new provider will contact your old one to let them know you've switched, but as a general rule, you are responsible for cancelling your old service once your new one is live.
Switching from ADSL or NBN to wireless internet
If you're looking ot move to 4G or 5G wireless internet, the process is as easy as setting up a new wireless modem when you get it. It's pretty much plug-and-play. The only other thing you'll need to remember to do is cancel your old plan.
Equipment Needed
When switching to home wireless internet, you'll need new equipment, such as a 4G or 5G modem, but your new provider will supply this.
Step 1: DON'T cancel your existing plan
Some people think you need to cancel your current plans first before signing up for a new one but that's not true. This will just leave you without internet until your new plan is ready. Keep your current setup until you've locked down your new plan, provider and equipment and are ready to make the switch.
Step 2: Check your area is eligible
To see if home wireless is available in your area, you need to ensure you have reliable 4G or 5G coverage in your area.
WhistleOut's coverage checker tool has 5G coverage maps, making it easy to see whether you can get 5G. All you need to do is pop in your address when searching for a new phone plan. After you've done so and hit Search, you can jump straight to the coverage map by tapping See Coverage Map and then tapping Click To Activate Interactive Map.
This map will show you what kind of coverage you have in your area. 5G coverage is highlighted using the darkest shade of purple, but unticking 4G can help make it clearer. The drop-down menu lets you choose between telcos.
Coverage maps are only approximate, only show outdoor coverage, and may be impacted by local conditions such as buildings.
Even if you have good 4G or 5G coverage at your address, you'll always need to double-check your address when ordering your chosen wireless internet plan from your provider of choice. In some cases, providers may only sell a limited number of services per postcode to prevent congestion.
Step 3: Make sure your current contract has ended
Check your current plan to see if there's any time left on your contract. If you’re in the middle of a long-term contract, you could be hit with early cancellation fees. If you're almost finished your contract, it might be worth waiting it out to avoid paying extra.
Step 4: Sign up
Wireless internet is still growing, with several providers offering 4G and 5G wireless internet plans. These include Optus, Telstra, Vodafone, iiNet, TPG, SpinTel, and Yomojo. Have a browse and when you’ve found the best provider for you, sign up for your plan online.
Compare 5G home internet plans in WhistleOut's database by speed:
If you choose a plan with speeds up to 25Mbps, you'll get the equivalent of an NBN 25 plan. Speeds may be slower during peak hours. These plans may not be the best value in the long term as they're quite expensive for the speeds you get. It is worth noting Vodafone's plan has a maximum speed of 20Mbps.
Here's pricing for 5G home internet plans with speeds up to 25Mbps:
If you decide to choose a plan capped at 50Mbps, this means it's the equivalent of NBN 50, however, you may experience slightly slower speeds during peak hours. This is a great option if you're either conscious of the price or you know you won't use over 50Mbps.
Here's pricing for 5G home internet plans capped at 50Mbps:
If you choose a plan capped at 100Mbps, this means it's the equivalent of an NBN 100 plan, however, you may experience slightly slower speeds during peak hours. This is a great option for households with multiple members who regularly connect to the internet at the same time.
Here's pricing for 5G home internet plans capped at 100Mbps:
|
TPG
Editor's Pick
5G Home Broadband Premium
$34.99/mth
Min. cost $34.99
Link not supplied
|
|
iiNet
5G Home Broadband Premium
$49.99/mth
Min. cost $49.99
Link not supplied
|
|
Vodafone
5G Home Internet Premium Plan
$60/mth
Min. cost $60
Link not supplied
|
|
Optus
Optus Plus Everyday Fast 5G
$64/mth
Min. cost $64
Link not supplied
|
|
Yomojo
5G Internet 100
$75.90/mth
Min. cost $75.90
Link not supplied
|
Three telcos currently offer uncapped plans. These can go as fast as network conditions allow but exact speeds will depend on your coverage and congestion. Generally, though we have found 200Mbps is a pretty safe average.
|
Optus
Editor's Pick
Optus Plus Entertainer Superfast 5G
$84/mth
Min. cost $84
Link not supplied
|
|
SpinTel
5G Unlimited Wireless Broadband (240Mbit)
$89/mth
+ $25 Upfront
Min. cost $114
Link not supplied
|
|
Telstra
Premium 5G Home Internet - 1TB
$95/mth
Min. cost $95
Link not supplied
|
|
Yomojo
5G Internet Max
$95.90/mth
Min. cost $95.90
Link not supplied
|
Step 5: Set up
Once your new wireless modem arrives, you just need to plug it in, and you’ll be connected instantly!
Step 5: Cancel your old service
Once your 4G or 5G home internet is up and running, you’ll need to contact your old provider and cancel your old plan.
Switching broadband from ADSL to NBN
If you're moving to NBN for the first time, the switch can take a little while; anywhere from a few days to weeks depending on where you live. Technicians will need to come to your property for the setup, but it tends to be a one-and-done type of deal. After you're on the NBN, you can change providers whenever you want without any further work on your property.
Equipment Needed
Many NBN plans come with a new NBN-ready modem, or the option to add one on. This will probably be bundled into the cost of your plan or you might be charged an upfront fee for the modem if you're going contract-free.
Step 1: DON'T cancel your existing plan
Some people think you need to cancel your current plans first before signing up for a new one but that's not true. This will just leave you without internet for longer than necessary. Keep your current setup until you've locked down your new plan, provider and equipment and are ready to make the switch.
Step 2: Check to see if the NBN is available in your area
While NBN is available virtually everywhere nowadays, you may be curious about what NBN connection type is available at your address. You can check this on the NBN Co website.
Step 3: Make sure your current contract has ended.
If you can’t wait until your contract is up, you should be able to switch to the NBN with your current provider and then jump ship once your contract is up.
Step 4: Place your NBN order online, via the phone or in-store
Once you've chosen your new ISP and placed your order, your new ISP will take care of switching your internet, (and home phone, if you’re into that sort of thing) over to your new plan and cancelling your old one.
Step 5: Organise your install
Depending on the provider and where you live, this can take a couple of days. This can take even longer in regional and rural areas, where you might be waiting a few weeks to get your NBN first connected. Your new provider will work with you to get this sorted as quickly as possible and will walk you through anything else you need to know to get connected.
If you're renting, make sure you have your landlord's permission before installing any new equipment.
Be prepared that there may be a small period of downtime between switching off your ADSL and switching on your NBN. If you're without internet during the switch-over for more than three days, your carrier is obliged to offer an interim service, for example, more mobile data or credit towards mobile data, while you wait.
If you're signing up with Telstra or Optus on an eligible plan, you'll be provided with a modem that includes 4G backup, so you can still access the internet during the blackout.
If you're looking to switch, check out some of the most popular NBN plans in our database:
|
#1
|
Dodo
FTTP, HFC
Editor's Pick
nbn500 Unlimited Plan
$62.99/mth
Min. cost $62.99
|
|
#2
|
SpinTel
All Fixed Line nbn®
Home Starter 25/10
$41/mth
Min. cost $41
|
|
#3
|
Tangerine Telecom
FTTP, HFC
Speedy Max NBN 500/50
$59.90/mth
Min. cost $59.90
|
|
#4
|
Superloop
FTTP, HFC
Family Max nbn500/50
$74/mth
Min. cost $74
|
|
#5
|
Dodo
All Fixed Line nbn®
Editor's Pick
nbn50 Unlimited Plan
$57.99/mth
Min. cost $57.99
|
|
#6
|
amaysim
FTTP, HFC
NBN500
$50/mth
Min. cost $50
|
|
#7
|
amaysim
All Fixed Line nbn®
NBN50
$45/mth
Min. cost $45
|
|
#8
|
TPG
FTTP, HFC
nbn Home Fast Unlimited Plan
$74.99/mth
Min. cost $74.99
Link not supplied
|
|
#9
|
Dodo
All Fixed Line nbn®
nbn25 Unlimited Plan
$43.99/mth
Min. cost $43.99
|
|
#10
|
Dodo
FTTN, FTTB, FTTC
Editor's Pick
nbn100 Unlimited Plan
$62.99/mth
Min. cost $62.99
|
How to switch NBN providers FAQs
How long does it take to change NBN providers?
If you're already connected to the NBN, your transfer can happen even on the same day! Every telco and every household will be different, but in this guide on how long it takes to switch internet providers, we discuss the expected duration to get your new connection up and running.
If you still haven't moved from ADSL, there'll be a longer wait time. You're looking at ten business days in many cases, but this can depend on where you live. Regional and rural installs tend to have longer wait times.
Do I need to cancel my current internet plan while changing providers?
No, do not cancel your current plan until your new plan is active. If you do, you will simply be without internet for longer. Some providers will also cancel your old service for you, but it's best to check this, as cancelling any utility is ultimately your responsibility.
Do I need to buy a new modem?
Whether you need a new modem depends on what technology type you're switching to. If you're moving from one NBN plan to another, you can typically use your existing modem.
If you're moving from NBN to home wireless internet, you'll need a new modem, but your provider will supply this.
If you're moving from ADSL to NBN, there's a good chance you'll want a new modem.
What is an AVC ID?
An AVC ID (Access Virtual Circuit Identifier) is a unique code that is assigned to each NBN connection. You may need to quote it when signing up to a new NBN provider via phone or enter it when prompted when signing up online.
The AVC ID helps NBN Co and telcos identify your connection for switching and troubleshooting any issues. If you can't find it on your recent bill you can call your current provider for assistance. You won't be able to make the switch to your new provider without it.
If you're ready to switch and aren't sure what plan to choose from, our editors pick the best NBN plans each month. We compare prices, speed, and more from different providers. Read our guide and start your search for the best plan for you.
These are the most popular SIM-only mobile plans with WhistleOut users this week:
|
#1
|
SpinTel
Editor's Pick
$23 Mobile Plan
$12.00/mth
Min. cost $12
|
|
#2
|
Boost Mobile
$39 Prepaid
$39.00
Per 28 Day Renewal
|
|
#3
|
Dodo
Editor's Pick
Medium Mobile Plan
$30.00/mth
Min. cost $15
|
|
#4
|
TPG
Editor's Pick
30GB Small Plan
$15.00
Per 1 Month Renewal
Link not supplied
|
|
#5
|
Tangerine Telecom
30GB 5G Mobile SIM
$30.00/mth
Min. cost $15
|
|
#6
|
Yomojo
Starter 29GB Plan
$24.90
Per 30 Day Renewal
Link not supplied
|
|
#7
|
Pivotel
25GB Mobile Swift Plan
$11.45/mth
Min. cost $11.45
|
|
#8
|
Swoop
30GB SIM Only 5G
$14.00/mth
Min. cost $14
|
|
#9
|
felix mobile
felix 25GB Mobile Plan
$30.00
Per 1 Month Renewal
|
|
#10
|
Vodafone
$58 Small SIM Only Plan
$45.00/mth
Min. cost $45
|
Jacqui Dent
Editorial Strategist
Find a better internet plan
Thousands of internet plans unpacked. All the facts. No surprises.
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![[Hand-Picked] Best internet providers in Australia](https://r3.whistleout.com.au/public/images/articles/2026/07/man-and-woman-with-laptop-on-green-couch.jpg?w=280&h=280&usm=20&usmrad=0.8&fit=crop "[Hand-Picked] Best internet providers in Australia")
