fbpx

How Much Does Internet Cost?

Find out the average cost of NBN plans and other factors which can impact your internet bills right here.

Written by 
Savvy Editorial Team
Savvy's content writing team are professionals with a wide and diverse range of industry experience and topic knowledge. We write across a broad spectrum of finance-related topics to provide our readers with informative resources to help them learn more about a certain area or enable them to decide on which product is best for their needs with careful comparison. Meet the team behind the operation here. Visit our authors page to meet Savvy's expert writing team, committed to delivering informative and engaging content to help you make informed financial decisions.
Our authors
, updated on February 13th, 2024       

Fact checked

At Savvy, we are committed to providing accurate information. Our content undergoes a rigorous process of fact-checking before it is published. Learn more about our editorial policy.

Internet Banner - Young couple sitting on the couch comparing internet plans on their tablet

Wondering about the cost of internet services? Internet pricing can be a complex landscape, with various factors influencing your monthly bill. In this comprehensive Savvy guide, we’ll break down some of the average cost of internet plans in Australia, such as NBN plans, and explain some of the factors which can impact the cost of your deal. Find out more with us today!

How much do internet plans cost in Australia on average?

When determining the average cost of internet plans in Australia, it’s first important to distinguish between different connection types. For instance, the cost of NBN plans is largely dependent on the speed tier you choose. The breakdown of the costs of each speed tier is as follows, based on quotes obtained through Savvy:

NBN 12

NBN 12 (Basic I)

Average first 12-month cost: $593.88

Average monthly cost: $49.49

The lowest NBN speed tier is NBN 12. Only one price was obtainable through our quote parameters, which came out to $43.99 per month for the first six months, before reverting to $54.99 thereafter.

NBN 25

NBN 25 (Basic II)

Average first 12-month cost: $732.15

Average monthly cost: $61.01

The next step up from NBN 12, NBN 25 plans are slightly more expensive on average. However, several plans start at very similar introductory prices compared to NBN 12. The above prices were obtained from seven plans.

NBN 50

NBN 50 (Standard)

Average first 12-month cost: $867.44

Average monthly cost: $72.29

NBN 50 is by far the most popular NBN plan in Australia, as it’s a common choice for families of regular users and smaller households with high data needs. Because of this increased utility and strength, the average cost among eight plans is higher once again.

NBN 100

NBN 100 (Fast)

Average first 12-month cost: $1,019.98

Average monthly cost: $85.00

The most widely available fast NBN plan, NBN 100 is another popular choice among homes and small businesses with greater online demands. The averages above were taken from 11 plans. Three providers among this comparison offer both 100/20 and 100/40 plans, with the average costs being $893.16 ($74.43 per month) and $961.16 ($80.10), respectively.

NBN 250

NBN 250 (Superfast)

Average first 12-month cost: $1,277.54

Average monthly cost: $106.46

One of the NBN’s two dedicated high-power plans, NBN 250 is limited to those with Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) and Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC) connections at their home or business. Of the eight quotes for this speed tier, the average monthly cost exceeded $100, based on the average cost for the first 12 months of the plans.

NBN 1000

NBN 1000 (Ultrafast)

Average first 12-month cost: $1,550.38

Average monthly cost: $129.20

The fastest plan on the NBN, NBN 1000 is theoretically capable of reaching download speeds of up to 1Gbps (although typical speeds range from 400Mbps to 600Mbps. As the fastest plan, it’s also the most expensive, with the above averages coming from five plans.

These costs are all averages based on a range of quotes obtained through our comparison service, but actual costs can vary significantly between providers. Because of this, it's crucial to take the time to compare your options, which you can do through us today. These costs are only representative of NBN plans, with those for home wireless broadband and mobile broadband potentially being far different.

Prices are based on quotes obtained through Econnex for a property in Sydney (2000) with a FTTP connection, correct as of 26 September 2023. Average costs include introductory prices, which range from six to 12 months in length, and do not include any additional setup, installation or equipment costs.

What factors can affect the cost of internet plans in Australia?

There are several factors to keep in mind when determining the cost of your internet plan. The key variables which can impact your plan's cost include:

  • Type of internet plan: the type of plan you choose plays a significant role in determining the cost. For example, the cost of an NBN plan is unlikely to be the same as a 4G or 5G home internet plan.
  • Speed: faster internet speeds usually come at a higher price. NBN plans offer various speed tiers, each with its own pricing (as outlined above). The faster the speed, the more you can expect to pay.
  • Equipment: some plans include the cost of equipment, such as a modem or router, while others may require you to purchase or rent this equipment separately. In some cases, it may be included for free if you stay signed up for a particular internet plan for a certain period, such as 24 months.
  • Added features: plans with added features like entertainment bundles may end up costing more. Consider whether these extras are necessary for your needs.
  • Contract terms: whether you have a contract can also affect the cost. Typically, longer contracts offer lower monthly rates, while month-to-month plans may have higher monthly fees.
  • Promotional pricing: providers often offer introductory promotions for new customers. These discounts may apply for the first few months of the contract, after which the price increases.
  • Additional fees: internet plans may come with various fees that can impact the overall cost. These fees can include installation fees, activation fees, relocation fees if you move and late payment fees for overdue bills. It's essential to review the provider's terms and conditions to understand all potential charges.
  • Data allowances: in some cases, you may pay more for a plan with unlimited data than one with a cap. However, most home internet plans in Australia today come with unlimited data. In the case of mobile broadband, which does come with data caps, you’ll pay more for greater allowances.

Helpful guides on internet plans

Internet Banner - Couple sitting together calculating their tax return

Claiming Internet on Tax

It’s important to know how to claim necessary expenses if you work from home, such as your internet bills. Are...

Internet Banner - Woman looking at her laptop on a table in an airport

What is Mobile Broadband?

Mobile broadband is a popular connection type for those who need internet on the go. Mobile broadband is the main...

Internet Banner - Middle-aged couple sitting on the couch looking at a tablet

Alternatives to the NBN

There are several alternatives to the NBN if you’re looking elsewhere for internet for your home or office. As internet...

Internet Banner - Young woman sitting on the couch looking at a tablet

FTTB NBN Explained

Find out more about FTTB connections on the NBN, how they work and their potential speeds. If you live in...

Internet Banner - Couple sitting on the couch looking at a tablet

What is the NBN?

The NBN is the newest fixed line internet infrastructure being rolled out by the Australian Government, transforming the online experience...

Internet Banner - Internet modem router sitting on a table while a woman uses her tablet in the background

Modem vs Router

Modems and routers are both important for your home or business internet connection, but what do they do? You might’ve...

Internet Banner - A family sitting on a couch together using a tablet

FTTC NBN Explained

Find out more about FTTC connections on the NBN, how they work and their potential speeds. FTTC is one of...

Internet Banner - Young woman sitting at a table on her tablet

Cable Internet Plans

Find out more about cable internet plans, how they work and what your alternatives may be with Savvy. Cable internet...

Internet Banner - Worried young man looking at his phone

Why is My Internet So Slow?

Having a slow internet connection can be painful, so it’s important to understand why that might be and how to...

Compare internet plans with Savvy

Regardless of whether you're looking for an internet plan for a one-person household or for your medium to large business, you can compare a range of offers from leading Australian providers side by side with Savvy. Get started with a free, no-obligation quote today!

Disclaimer:

Savvy is partnered with Econnex Comparison (CIMET Sales Pty Ltd, ABN 72 620 395 726) to provide readers with a variety of internet plans to compare. We do not compare all retailers in the market, or all plans offered by all retailers. Savvy earns a commission from Econnex each time a customer buys an internet plan via our website. We don’t arrange for products to be purchased directly, as all purchases are conducted via Econnex.

Any advice presented above is general in nature and doesn’t consider your personal or business objectives, needs or finances. It’s always important to consider whether advice is suitable for you before purchasing an internet plan. For further information on the variety of internet plans compared by Econnex, or how their business works, you can visit their website.

$50 Woolworths eGift card terms and conditions
  • The Promoter is CIMET Sales Pty Ltd ABN 72 620 395 726. Level 18/570 George Street Sydney, NSW 2000. Econnex Comparison is powered by CIMET.
  • Promotion available on qualifying Broadband Plan purchases between 1st February 2024 to 31st July 2024 (“Promotional Period”) and may be withdrawn at any time by Econnex Econnex Comparison retains the right to change or alter the terms of this offer.
  • You (“Customer”) will receive $50 worth of Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards when you purchase a Broadband Plan via Econnex Comparison, subject to these Terms and Conditions.
  • Information on how to qualify to receive the Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Card forms part of these Terms and Conditions. Participation in this promotion is considered acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.
Eligibility requirements
  • To be eligible to receive the Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards, you must purchase the Broadband Plan via the following link: https://app.econnex.com.au/broadband?rcCode=90709
  • You must switch to a new Broadband retailer. Customers who change plans via Econnex but remain with the same retailer will not be eligible.
  • Your Broadband Plan must be connected within 30 days from the date of purchase.
  • Eligible Recipients will receive the applicable Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards by email up to 120 days after purchasing the Broadband Plan.
  • Econnex Comparison is not liable if any Customer details supplied are incorrect.
  • Econnex Comparison is providing this offer in conjunction with the retail services offered on its platform.
  • Details of Econnex Comparison retailers can be found at the following link: https://www.econnex.com.au/approved-providers-list
  • You must be an Australian resident aged 18 or over. Econnex Comparison may request you to provide a copy of your valid ID for identification purposes.
  • The Promoter reserves the right, at any time, to verify the validity to receive the Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards and Customer’s information (including the Customer’s identity, age and place of residence) and reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to disqualify any individual who the Promoter has reason to believe has breached any of these Terms and Conditions, tampered with the claim process, or engaged in any unlawful or other improper misconduct calculated to jeopardise fair and proper conduct of the promotion.
  • Errors and omissions may be accepted at the Promoter's discretion. Failure by the Promoter to enforce any of its rights at any stage does not constitute a waiver of those rights.
  • When the request for a connection cannot be completed, is unsuccessful, or a request is made for the cancellation of your Broadband Plan within the first 30 days from the date of connection, you will not be eligible to receive any gift card.
  • Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Card is subject to any issuer Terms and Conditions.
  • Any ancillary costs with redeeming the gift cards are not included.
  • No responsibility is taken for any lost or stolen Woolworths Store Bonus eGift Cards.
  • If the Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards are unavailable, the Promoter reserves the right to substitute the Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards to a card with equivalent value, subject to directions from a regulatory authority.
  • If the offer is not able to be conducted as reasonably anticipated, due to any reason beyond the reasonable control of the Promoter, including but not limited to: technical difficulties, unauthorised intervention or fraud, the Promoter reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to the extent permitted by law: a. to disqualify any individual; or b. to modify, suspend, terminate or cancel the promotion, as appropriate.
  • This promotion cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer from Econnex
Econnex Comparison Terms and Conditions.
  • Econnex Comparison will transfer your Broadband Plan request and details to the selected retailer.
  • Econnex Comparison may contact you to clarify any details or discrepancies in the information you provided for your Broadband Plan purchase.
  • To cancel your request, you will need to contact the Broadband Plan retailer and inform them of your decision.
  • Please note that we do not compare all brands in the market, or all products offered by all brands.
  • If you have any inquiries regarding your Broadband Plan purchase, you can contact us directly at 1800 013 000 or email us at [email protected]
  • Econnex Comparison Terms and Conditions: https://www.econnex.com.au/terms-and-conditions/
  • By participating in this promotion, the individual authorises the Promoter to collect, hold, use and disclose their personal information in accordance with Econnex’s privacy policy, including providing such information to third parties such as contractors, service providers, suppliers and where required or authorised by law. Econnex’s Privacy policy can be found at https://www.econnex.com.au/privacy-policy
  • Econnex may, unless the individual tells us not to, use the information to communicate with them by mail or electronically by, for example, email, phone, SMS to issue direct marketing and commercial communications telemarketing calls.
  • To opt out of direct marketing access, update, or correct personal information you may contact us at [email protected]
Other Information
  • Woolworths Group Ltd ABN 88 000 014 675 is the issuer of the Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Card but is not the Promoter of the offer nor responsible for fulfillment of the offer terms.
  • Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards have a fixed term expiry as displayed on the front of the gift card and are redeemable in-store and online at Woolworths Supermarket stores only.
  • Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards are valid for 3 months from the issue date and Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards are not reloadable or redeemable for cash.
  • Econnex Comparison and Woolworths will not replace, expired, lost, stolen, or deleted Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards.
  • Check your Spam/junk email if you have not received a Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Card in your inbox within 120 days after activation of your Energy, Electricity or Gas Plan.
  • Woolworths Store Bonus eGift Card is sent via email from [email protected] or [email protected]
  • For enquiries related to the application, gift cards, or adding or removing any details on the application, please contact the Econnex Comparison at 1800 013 000 or e-mail us at [email protected]
  • For the balance and transactions history on this Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Card and Woolworths Terms and Conditions visit https://woolworths.com.au/giftcards or call 1300 101 234.
Internet Banner - Young couple sitting on the couch comparing internet plans on their tablet

We'd love to chat, how can we help?

By clicking "Submit", you agree to be contacted by a Savvy broker and to receive communications from Savvy which you can unsubscribe from at any time. Read our Privacy Policy.