From our Moving Partner Muval

So, you’re building or moving to a new house? That’s exciting! But before you get too carried away, let’s talk about something important – getting connected, in particular NBN connection for a new house.

It’s the way it’s wired

Yes, we know, it’s not the most thrilling topic, but trust us, it’s essential. Enter the NBN rollout – Australia’s National Broadband Network.

If you want speedy and dependable internet, you need to know about NBN technology, its installation, plans, and all the FAQs. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back! Let’s dive into everything you need to know about NBN connection for a new house.

NBN Connection New House: What to Do and How to Get Started

You’re building a new house and excitedly planning all the modern conveniences needed in a smart home you want to enjoy, including fast internet speeds.

Connecting to the NBN in Australia is now easier than ever, but you need to make sure you understand exactly how to get connected, timeframes and what internet service providers can offer.

In this article we’ll walk you through the steps to get started and answer a few frequently asked questions as well. To kick things off, we’ve prepared some points to help you get started.

New housing development charge?

Inquiring about the availability of fibre to the premises and NBN network in a new housing development is crucial in ensuring smooth connectivity in your new home. When looking for a block of land, ask the developer if the development is NBN ready or if they have submitted an NBN New Developments application.

Additionally, plan your connectivity needs ahead of time by considering the devices you will use, the design of your home, and where you want the NBN connection box to be placed. Marking these details on a plan of your home can be helpful when discussing them with your builder.

Speaking to your builder early about submitting a pre-installation request for the NBN connection box will ensure a seamless transition into your new home.

If you are building a new home on the same block of land where your current home is connected to fibre to the curb (a.k.a. curb fttc) and NBN network, submitting a Relocation Works application may be necessary. This will relocate the fibre to the curb and NBN network to the most appropriate area within your land to ensure a smooth reconnection.

To kick things off, we have some points below to help you get started.

Check NBN availability

Visit the NBN website and use the “Check Your Address” tool to see if NBN is available in your area.

Coordinate with your builder

Work with your builder or contractor to ensure your new house is ready for NBN installation.

Choose an NBN provider

Research and compare offerings from various internet providers in Australia to choose one that suits your needs.

Select a plan

Choose an NBN plan based on factors such as budget, online activities, and the number of users in your household.

Contact your internet service provider

Place an order with your chosen internet provider and schedule the installation appointment.

Prepare for installation

Clear the installation area and ensure a nearby power point and power supply is available.

NBN installation

An NBN technician will visit to set up equipment. the NBN technician may drill holes and install equipment both inside and outside your home.

NBN connection activation

Wait for your internet provider to inform you when your NBN connection is ready for use.

Connect your devices

Use the Wi-Fi network name and password provided by your internet provider to connect your devices to the NBN network.

It’s important to note that the time-frame for connecting to the NBN in a new house build can vary depending on various factors, including the availability of NBN infrastructure in your area, the scheduling availability of your chosen internet service provider, and any unforeseen issues that may arise during the installation process.

It’s always best to check with your NBN provider at least 2-3 months before handover for their specific timeline. Additionally, working closely with your builder or contractor to ensure that your premises is ready for the NBN installation can help streamline the process and minimise any potential delays.

 

Relocating Your NBN Connection to a New Address: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re planning on moving to a new address, it’s important to know that the status of your NBN connection and how you connect to the NBN network at your new location may be different from your current address. To help minimise disruption to your internet service, it’s best to prepare before you relocate. Here are some steps to follow when relocating your NBN connection to a new address.

Check address

Visit the NBN website and enter your new address in the “Check Your Address” tool to check whether NBN is available at your new house.

Leave NBN supplied equipment

Please ensure that any equipment provided by NBN remains at your current address when you move (e.g. the NBN Box/Utility Box). Taking the equipment with you is not allowed by law, as the equipment is registered to the specific address and will not work at your new premises.

It is also the property of NBN and cannot be resold. Removing the equipment may cause inconvenience for the new owner or occupant of your old premises.

Review your internet speed plan before relocating to a new address

It is important to review your speed plan when relocating your NBN connection to a new address. If you are already connected to an NBN plan through your phone and internet provider at your current address, you should check with your phone and internet provider to see if the same speed plan is available at your new address.

However, if your household’s internet needs have changed, this could be an opportunity to re-evaluate your speed requirements. It is essential to ensure that you have a suitable speed plan to meet your current needs, especially if you work from home or have multiple users accessing the internet at the same time.

Notify your provider when moving house

When you’re moving to a new house, it’s important to inform your current phone and internet provider about your relocation. This will help them provide advice on what needs to be done, such as arranging a connection of a service at your new address (if available) and disconnecting the service at your old address on a specific date.

If your current internet provider doesn’t offer NBN plans at your new location, you can look for other another internet service provider.

 

Moving to a New House with an Existing NBN Plan: What are Your Options for Internet Connection?

If you’re moving into a house that already has a connection installed inside an existing fibre to the building NBN plan , you have a few options:

Transfer your existing plan

You can transfer your existing NBN plan to your new address by contacting your service provider and providing them with the details of your new home. They will guide you through the process and arrange for the transfer of your phone and internet services to your new address so you can stay connected.

Switch to a new plan

Alternatively, you can choose to switch to a new plan offered by your service provider or another service provider if you’re not satisfied with the existing plan (consider the premium evening speed compared to the standard plus evening speed, busy periods, and the NBN technology type).

This is a good time to do your research and compare options to select the best plan for your needs, and place an order with your chosen service provider to initiate the switch.

 

Moving to a New House without an Existing NBN Plan: How to Get Connected

Moving to a new house can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to setting up essential services like the internet and researching internet providers.

If you’re moving to a new house without an existing NBN connection, phone line or plan, you may be wondering how to get connected.

The good news is that there are several steps you can take to fibre to the node or fibre to the curb to ensure a smooth and hassle-free NBN connection process.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps you need to take to get connected to the NBN and ensure you stay connected, have a reliable and fast internet connection in your new home.

Check NBN availability in your area

Before you start planning your NBN network connection, you’ll need to check if the NBN is available in your area.

You can do this by visiting the NBN Co website and entering your address in the “Check Your Address” tool. If NBN is available, you’re good to go!

NBN technology is progressively rolling out across different regions in Australia, so it’s important to confirm if your new home is within an NBN-enabled area.

Coordinate with your builder or contractor

Work closely with your builder or contractor to ensure that your new house build is ready for the NBN installation.

This may involve installing conduit or other necessary infrastructure as per NBN Co’s guidelines. It’s crucial to communicate and coordinate with your builder or contractor to ensure that the NBN installation aligns with your construction timeline.

Choose an NBN provider

Once you’ve confirmed NBN availability, it’s time to choose an NBN provider. There are many NBN providers in Australia which we have detailed below, offering various plans and prices, so take your time to research and compare their offerings.

Select an NBN plan

The next step is to choose an NBN plan that suits your needs. ISPs offer a variety of plans with different speeds, data allowances, and contract terms.

Consider factors such as your budget, online activities, and the number of users in your household to select a plan that meets your requirements.

Contact your chosen ISP

Once you’ve decided on a plan, contact your chosen ISP to place an order. They will guide you through the process, provide you with any necessary information and schedule the installation appointment.

Prepare for installation

Before the installation appointment, make sure your new house is ready for the NBN connection. Clear the area where the NBN equipment will be installed, and ensure there’s a power wall outlet nearby.

NBN installation

On the installation day, a technician will visit your new house to set up the NBN equipment. The installation process typically involves connecting a small box called the NBN Connection Box to the NBN network and a modem/router to provide Wi-Fi in your house.

The installation process may involve drilling holes and installing equipment both inside and outside your home, so it’s important to be prepared for any necessary modifications.

NBN Connection Activation

Once the installation is complete, your NBN connection will need to be activated. This may take a few hours to a few days, depending on your ISP. Your ISP will inform you when your NBN connection is ready for use.

Connect your devices

Once the NBN installation and activation is complete, you can connect your devices to the Wi-Fi network using the with Wi-Fi network name and password provided by your ISP (set up any fttp connections and guard against power failure). And voila! You’re now connected to the NBN in your new house.

 

Provide a timeframe for connection

It’s important to note that the timeframe for connecting to the NBN network in a new house build can vary depending on various factors, including the availability of NBN infrastructure in your area by following locations guides as set out, the scheduling availability of your chosen NBN provider, and any unforeseen issues that may arise during the installation process.

It’s always best to check with your NBN provider at least 2-3 months before handover for their specific timeline. Additionally, working closely with your builder or contractor to ensure that your premises are ready for the NBN installation can help streamline the process and minimise any potential delays.

 

NBN Plans and Prices

NBN plans are offered by various internet providers and come with different features offer speeds and options. Here’s a breakdown of some key aspects to understand when selecting an NBN plan for your new home:

NBN Speed Tiers

NBN network plans are classified into four speed tiers: NBN12 (Basic), NBN25 (Standard), NBN50 (Standard Plus), and NBN100 (Premium).

The speed tier and internet plan you choose will affect the performance of your internet connection, with higher speed tiers generally offering faster download and upload speeds.

Consider your online activities, such as streaming, gaming, or working from home, to select an appropriate internet plan and speed tier.

Data Allowances

NBN plans may come with different data allowances, which determine how much data you can use each month. Some plans offer unlimited data, while others have monthly data limits. Consider your online usage patterns and the number of users in your household

When it comes to NBN plans for new homes, there are several ISPs in Australia that offer a range of plans. Let’s take a closer look at some popular internet service providers and their NBN offerings:

Internet providers

Telstra

Telstra is one of the leading ISPs in Australia and offers a range of NBN plans with different speed tiers and data allowances.

They also provide optional extras such as home phone services and entertainment bundles. Telstra offers plans with unlimited data, making it a suitable option for households with high data usage.

Optus

Optus is another major ISP in Australia that offers NBN plans with varying speeds and data allowances. They also provide optional extras like a home phone line, services and Fetch TV bundles for entertainment. Optus offers unlimited data plans, as well as plans with different contract lengths to suit different needs.

TPG

TPG is a popular ISP known for its competitive pricing and offers a variety of NBN plans with different speeds and data allowances. They also provide options for bundled home phone and internet services and entertainment bundles. TPG offers both unlimited data plans and plans with monthly data limits, catering to different usage patterns.

Aussie Broadband

Aussie Broadband is a renowned internet service provider known for its customer service and offers a range of NBN plans with different speed tiers and data allowances. They also provide options for home phone services and entertainment bundles. Aussie Broadband offers unlimited data plans, making it a suitable choice for households with heavy data usage.

iiNet

iiNet is another popular internet service provider in Australia that offers NBN plans with varying speeds and data allowances. They also provide optional extras such as home phone services and Fetch TV bundles for entertainment. iiNet offers both unlimited data plans and plans with monthly data limits, providing flexibility for different usage requirements.

It’s important to research and compare the offerings of different internet providers to choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. Consider factors such as speed, data allowances, contract terms, additional services, and customer reviews when making your decision.

NBN Alternatives: What Other Options are Available for Your New House?

There are several alternatives to the NBN network that people can consider when looking for high-speed internet options in Australia. Some of these alternatives include:

Fixed Wireless

Fixed wireless broadband is a type of high-speed internet connection that uses radio waves to transmit data between a fixed point and a receiver.

It is a popular alternative to NBN in regional areas where fibre optic cables are not available. Fixed wireless technology is improving all the time and can deliver speeds of up to 100Mbps.

Mobile Broadband

Mobile broadband uses cellular networks to deliver high-speed internet to devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops. It is a popular alternative for people who need to access the internet while on the go.

The actual speeds will vary depending on the provider and the location, but 4G networks can deliver speeds of up to 100Mbps.

Satellite Broadband

Satellite broadband uses a satellite dish to transmit and receive data from a satellite in space. It is a popular alternative for people living in remote areas where other types of broadband are not available.

Satellite broadband speeds are improving all the time, but they can be slower than other types of broadband due to the long distance that data has to travel.

Cable Broadband

Cable broadband is a high-speed internet connection that uses the same infrastructure as cable television. It is a popular alternative to NBN in urban areas where fibre optic cables are not available.

ADSL Broadband

ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) broadband is a type of broadband that uses existing copper, phone and internet lines to deliver high-speed internet to homes and businesses.

It is a popular alternative to NBN in areas where fibre optic cables are not available. ADSL broadband speeds vary depending on the distance from the telephone exchange, but can reach up to 24Mbps.

It is worth noting that the availability of these alternatives to the NBN can vary depending on the location. Some areas may have access to multiple options, while others may have limited choices. It is important to research the available options in your area and compare them to find the best fit for your needs and budget.

In addition to these alternatives, there are also plans for future broadband technologies that could provide even faster internet download speeds. One such technology is 5G, which is the fifth and next generation of of wireless technology. It promises to deliver faster download speeds, and lower latency than 4G networks, making it a promising alternative to NBN in the future.

Another technology that is being explored is fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) broadband technology. This technology involves running fibre optic cables directly from fibre to connect fibre to the premises of people’s homes, providing even faster speeds than traditional fibre-to-the-node (FTTN) connections. While FTTH technology is not yet widely available in Australia, it is being rolled out in some areas and could become a more popular alternative to NBN technology in the future.

Overall, there are many alternatives to NBN that people can consider when looking for high-speed internet options in Australia. From fixed wireless to mobile broadband, from fibre optic cable to broadband to ADSL, there are options available for people in both urban and regional areas. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more options to become available in the future.

NBN vs. Satellite vs. 5G vs. 4G: Which is the Best for Your New House?

When it comes to internet connectivity for your new house, you have a few options to choose from.

The NBN is the most well-known and widely available fibre to the building, but there are also satellite, 5G, and 4G options to consider.

Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to consider your specific needs and location before making a decision.

NBN

The NBN is a government-owned wholesale network that delivers high-speed broadband to homes and businesses across Australia. It offers several speed tiers ranging from 12Mbps to 1000Mbps (1Gbps), with the actual speed you can get depending on your location and plan.

The NBN technology uses including fibre optic cable, hybrid fibre-coaxial (HFC), fixed wireless, and satellite to connect customers to the fibre network.

Satellite

Satellite internet is a good option for those in remote or rural areas where fixed-line connections like the NBN are not available or practical.

Satellite internet technology works by sending and receiving data signals from a satellite in space, which are then transmitted to a dish on the ground.

While satellite internet can offer high speeds and large data allowances, it can also be expensive and may experience latency issues due to the distance the signal needs to travel.

5G

5G is the latest, next generation of of mobile network technology and offers faster speeds and more reliable connections than its predecessor, 4G. While 5G is primarily designed for mobile devices like smartphones, it can also be used as a home broadband option. 5G networks are still in the early stages of rollout, with coverage limited to certain areas and plans generally more expensive than NBN options. However, 5G can offer faster speeds and lower latency than other options, making it a good choice for those who require high-speed internet connection for things like gaming or video conferencing.

4G

4G is the current standard for mobile network technology and can also be used as a home broadband option. While 4G can offer relatively fast speeds and good coverage, it is generally not as fast or reliable as NBN or 5G. However, 4G can be a good option for those in areas with limited fixed-line connections, as well as for those who require internet on the go or in temporary locations.

So, which option is the best for your own connection inside your new house? It ultimately depends on your specific needs and location. If you are in an area with good NBN coverage and require fast and reliable internet services for things like streaming and gaming, then the NBN is likely your best bet.

If you are in a remote or rural area and require large data allowances, then satellite internet may be your only option. If you require high-speed internet for things like gaming or video conferencing and are in an area with good 5G coverage, then 5G may be the way to go.

Finally, if you are in an area with limited fixed-line connections or require internet on the go, then 4G may be your best option.

It’s worth noting that the technology landscape is constantly evolving, with new options like Starlink’s satellite internet and even 6G on the horizon. So, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on emerging technologies and their potential impact on your phone and internet call options.

Troubleshooting NBN Connection Issues in Your New House

NBN technology delivers faster and more reliable internet services, but like any technology, it is not immune to occasional hiccups. If you are experiencing NBN connection issues in your new house, here are some troubleshooting tips that can help:

Check your NBN equipment

The first thing to do when experiencing NBN connection issues is to check your NBN equipment. Ensure cable connection is connected properly to the existing telephone jack and that your NBN modem is switched on. If your modem is not turned on, switch it on and wait for it to initialise. If it is already on, try restarting it.

Restart your modem and devices

If your cable connection and NBN equipment is connected properly, but you are still experiencing connection issues, try restarting your modem and connected devices to access network data. Turn off the modem and disconnect all devices connected to it. Wait for a few seconds before turning the modem on and reconnecting your devices.

Check your NBN connection type

NBN offers different connection types such as Fibre to the Premises (FTTP), Fibre to the Node (FTTN), Fibre to the Building (FTTB), Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC), and Fixed Wireless. Check your connection type to determine if it is available in your area and if it is compatible with your modem.

Check for network outages

If you are still experiencing connection issues after restarting your modem and devices, check for network outages in your area. You can do this by visiting the NBN Co website or contacting your NBN service provider. If there is a network outage, you may need to wait for NBN Co to fix the issue.

Contact your current provider if you have tried all the above troubleshooting tips and you are still experiencing NBN connection issues, contact your NBN service provider. They will be able to check if there are any known issues with the NBN service in your area and provide you with further assistance.

NBN is a reliable internet service that provides fast internet speeds to Australian residents and businesses. However, like any technology, it can sometimes experience connection issues. If you are experiencing NBN connection issues in your new house, use the troubleshooting tips above to fix the problem.

 

FAQs

Can I get NBN in my new house build?

Yes, you can get NBN in your new house build. You can check the availability of NBN in your area by visiting the NBN website and using their address checker tool.

How long does it take to get NBN connected in a new house?

The timeframe for NBN installation in a new house can vary depending on several factors, including the availability of NBN in your area, the type of NBN technology being installed, and the complexity of the installation process. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to get NBN connected in a new house.

How do I move my NBN to a new house?

If you are moving to a new house and want to transfer your NBN service, you can contact your NBN provider to inform them of the move and request a transfer of service. Your provider will guide you through the process and inform you of any additional charges or fees that may apply.

What if NBN is not available in my area?

If NBN is not available in your area, you may be able to access other broadband services, such as ADSL, cable, or wireless broadband. You can check with your local internet service providers to see what options are available in your area.

What is the cost of NBN installation in a new house?

The cost of NBN installation in a new house can vary depending on the type of NBN technology being installed and the complexity of the installation process. In most cases, NBN installation in a new house is free, but there may be additional charges for complex installations or if new cabling or equipment is required.

Do I need to be home during the NBN installation process in my new house?

Yes, you or someone over the age of 18 must be present at your new house during the NBN installation process. This is to ensure that the installation technician can access the premises and complete the installation process.

How to troubleshoot NBN connection issues in my new house?

If you are experiencing NBN connection issues in your new house, you can try the following troubleshooting steps:

• Check your NBN connection box and modem to ensure they are both properly connected and powered on.
• Restart your modem and NBN connection box by turning them off and on again.
• Check for any NBN network outages or maintenance in your area by visiting the NBN website or contacting your NBN provider.
• Contact your NBN provider for assistance and troubleshooting guidance.

Getting connected to the NBN for a new house build can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By following the necessary steps, such as checking NBN availability in your area, selecting a plan that fits your needs, and scheduling an installation for your new NBN connection, you can ensure a smooth transition to your new home’s internet connection. And if you do encounter any issues, their website offers troubleshooting resources to help you solve them. With reliable and fast internet connection, you’ll be able to enjoy all that your new home has to offer, whether that’s streaming movies, working remotely, or keeping in touch with loved ones.

Moving home NBN Connection Checklist

• Check if your new address can connect to the NBN network.
• Check what supplied equipment is available at your new address, if new build, work with builder or developer to have necessary infrastructure is ready.
• Choose a speed and internet plan that suits your needs from your preferred internet service provider.
• Contact your internet provider to book the move.
• Notify your internet service provider of the date you want to disconnect your old address.
• Leave any equipment supplied by the NBN at your old address.
• Be available for installation if required.

Internet provider and your digital lifestyle

In today’s digital age, having a fast and reliable broadband plan is essential for many daily activities, from entertainment to work and education.

The NBN is Australia’s most extensive broadband network, delivering high-speed internet to millions of households across the country. However, choosing the right NBN eligible plans for your needs is crucial, as it can significantly impact your digital lifestyle.

Having the right eligibility criteria can improve your online experience by providing faster speeds, greater bandwidth, and more reliable connections. This is especially important for internet lifestyle activities that require high-speed internet, such as streaming, gaming, and video conferencing.

If you’re an avid Netflix user, for example, you’ll need a plan that can deliver high-quality video streaming without buffering or lagging. Similarly, online gamers require a stable and low-latency connection to avoid lag, which can ruin their gaming experience. By choosing an NBN plan tailored to your specific needs, you can ensure that you have the speed and bandwidth necessary to support your favourite online activities.

Another reason why having the perfect NBN plan is essential is that it can save you money in the long run. Many internet service providers offer a range of plans at different price points, with varying data allowances and speeds.

If you’re on a plan that doesn’t meet your needs, you may end up paying for data you don’t use, or experiencing slow speeds that require you to upgrade to a more expensive plan. By choosing an NBN plan that’s right for your digital lifestyle, you can avoid these unnecessary costs and ensure that you’re only paying for what you need.

Moreover, having the right NBN plan can improve your productivity and enable you to work more efficiently. With more and more people working from home, a fast and reliable internet connection is crucial for accessing files, collaborating with colleagues, and attending virtual meetings.

By choosing an NBN plan that supports these activities, you can ensure that you’re able to work without interruption and meet your deadlines. This is especially important for professionals who rely on video conferencing to communicate with clients and colleagues, as a poor internet connection can impact their professionalism and reputation.

Having a bespoke NBN plan can enhance your online security and privacy. Many ISPs offer plans with additional security features, such as firewalls, antivirus software, and parental controls, to protect their customers from cyber threats. By choosing a plan with these features, you can ensure that your personal information and online activities are safe from prying eyes.

Additionally, some plans offer unlimited data allowances or off-peak data usage, which can allow you to download or stream content without worrying about exceeding your data cap or incurring excess data charges.

Now that we’ve explored why having the perfect NBN plan is important, let’s take a look at some internet lifestyle activities that require bespoke internet plans.

Streaming

Whether you’re watching Netflix, Stan, or Disney+, streaming requires a fast and reliable internet connection. Plans with speeds of at least 25Mbps are recommended for HD streaming, while 50Mbps or higher is required for 4K streaming. Additionally, plans with unlimited data allowances are ideal for heavy streamers who watch multiple shows or movies each day.

Gaming

Online gaming requires a low-latency connection and fast speeds to ensure a smooth and responsive gameplay experience. Plans with speeds of at least 50Mbps and low latency are recommended for online gaming, while plans with unlimited data allowances are ideal for gamers who download large game files or play for long periods.

Working from home

With more people working remotely than ever before, having a reliable internet connection is essential for attending virtual meetings, accessing files, and collaborating with colleagues. Plans with speeds of at least 50Mbps are recommended for video conferencing and file sharing, while plans with additional security features, such as firewalls and VPNs, can enhance your online security and privacy.

Video conferencing

Video conferencing requires a stable and high-quality internet connection to ensure that audio and video are clear and uninterrupted. Plans with speeds of at least 25Mbps and low latency are recommended for video conferencing, while plans with unlimited data allowances are ideal for professionals who attend multiple virtual meetings each day.

Online learning

With many students now learning from home, having a fast and reliable internet connection is essential for accessing online learning resources and attending virtual classes. Plans with speeds of at least 25Mbps are recommended for online learning, while plans with unlimited data allowances can allow students to stream video lectures and access online learning resources without worrying about exceeding their data cap.

Having the perfect NBN plan for your personal needs is crucial for servicing your chosen digital lifestyle. By choosing a plan that’s tailored to your specific requirements, you can improve your online experience, save money, enhance your productivity, and improve your online security and privacy.

Whether you’re a heavy streamer, online gamer, remote worker, or online learner, there’s an NBN plan out there that’s right for you. So, take the time to research and compare plans from different ISPs, and choose the one that’s perfect for your digital lifestyle.