NBN 12 Plans

Compare budget-friendly internet options, including NBN 12 plans, in one place through Savvy today.

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 - Compare Broadband & NBN Plans

We’ve partnered with Econnex to bring you a range of internet plans to help you compare them.

Looking for a cheaper, low-speed internet plan? NBN 12 plans offer an attractive solution for individuals and small households with basic internet requirements. To make an informed choice about your internet service, it's essential to compare your available options thoroughly.

You can do just that through Savvy. Our platform enables you to effortlessly compare a variety of NBN 12 plans offered by leading Australian providers all in one place. Get a free quote through us today and start looking for the best NBN 12 plan available to suit your needs and budget.

What is NBN 12?

NBN 12 is one of the basic speed tiers offered by the NBN in Australia. It represents a maximum download speed of 12 megabits per second (Mbps) and a maximum upload speed of 1Mbps. This speed tier is also known as “Basic I” because it comes with the lowest maximum speed of all the available NBN tiers.

NBN 12 plans are designed to provide a reliable internet connection for light online activity such as web browsing, email and basic video streaming. While it doesn’t offer the fastest speeds available, it’s an affordable option for individuals and small households with relatively modest internet needs.

Who is NBN 12 suitable for?

NBN 12 plans are suitable for individuals and households with light to moderate internet usage. Here are some specific scenarios where NBN 12 might be a good fit:

  • Individuals: if you live alone and primarily use the internet for basic tasks like checking emails, social media and occasional web browsing, NBN 12 may meet your needs.
  • Small households: small households consisting of one to two people who engage in light internet activities like web surfing and video streaming at low resolutions can benefit from NBN 12.
  • Seniors: as a senior, you may not have much use for the internet beyond the occasional browse or video call every now and then. If you don’t use it much, you might look to a cost-effective, low-power plan like NBN 12.
  • Budget-conscious users: NBN 12 plans are typically among the most affordable options. If you're looking to save on your monthly internet bill, this speed tier can provide cost-effective connectivity.
  • Secondary connections: some households might use NBN 12 as a secondary connection in addition to a higher-speed plan for heavy usage scenarios.

How do I compare NBN 12 plans?

When it comes to comparing NBN 12 plans, there are several essential factors to keep in mind to make an informed decision:

  • Plan cost: begin by examining the monthly fees associated with NBN 12 plans from different providers. Take into account any additional charges like setup fees and modem costs. Additionally, check for any ongoing promotions or discounts which might make the plan cheaper overall.
  • Speed and performance: it’s important to ensure the plan consistently offers speeds of up to 12Mbps, especially during peak usage times such as evenings. Ensure that these speeds align with your specific online activities and requirements.
  • Data allowance: evaluate the data allowance included in each plan. Consider your typical monthly data consumption and select a plan that adequately caters to your needs. It's worth noting that almost all NBN 12 plans come with unlimited data, but it's still essential to confirm this.
  • Contract terms: determine whether the NBN 12 plan you're interested in comes with contract terms. Some plans offer month-to-month flexibility, while others might have fixed-term contracts. If you opt for a plan with a contract, be aware of potential exit fees in case you need to make changes later on.
  • Bonus features: explore any extra features or services bundled with the plan. Certain providers may include complimentary modems, while others might offer entertainment perks like streaming subscriptions. Consider whether these extras align with your preferences.
  • Bundle options: enquire about bundle opportunities which may allow you to combine your NBN 12 plan with other services, such as mobile plans. This bundling can potentially lead to cost savings, making it an option worth considering.

By considering these factors, which you can do through Savvy, you can choose the best available plan for your needs with more confidence. Our online comparison service streamlines this process by enabling you to explore plans from various top Australian providers in one convenient location.

The pros and cons of NBN 12

PROS

Affordable pricing

NBN 12 plans are often the most budget-friendly option among NBN tiers. They provide a cost-effective solution for individuals or households on a tight budget.

Suitable for light users

These plans are suited for light internet users who engage in basic online activities. They offer sufficient speed for these tasks without overpaying for higher speeds.

More reliable than ADSL2+

Although its maximum speed is only half that of an ADSL2+ connection (24Mbps), NBN connections are considered more reliable and faster than the old cable system.

CONS

Inferior to NBN 25

In many cases, NBN 25 plans are priced similarly to NBN 12, meaning you could access much higher download and upload speeds for just a few dollars extra per month (if that).

Lowest available speed

Because the maximum speed caps out at 12Mbps, these plans are unsuitable for many families and businesses today who demand more from their connection.

Frequently asked questions about NBN 12

How do I find the cheapest NBN 12 plan?

To find the most affordable NBN 12 plan available where you live, it’s important to compare offers from various internet service providers. Look for promotions, discounts and bundle options that can lower your monthly costs. Additionally, consider any setup fees or modem charges to calculate the total cost.

Why can’t I access the speeds advertised on my NBN 12 plan?

Several factors can affect your internet speed, including network congestion, distance from the exchange and the quality of your modem and Wi-Fi setup. If you consistently experience slower speeds, contact your provider for troubleshooting or consider upgrading to a higher NBN tier.

Can I use my existing modem with a new NBN 12 plan?

It depends on the compatibility of your modem. NBN typically requires a modem with specific NBN-ready features. Check with your provider to confirm if your current modem is compatible. If not, you may need to use the one offered by your provider or purchase one separately.

When should I not buy an NBN 12 plan?

It may be worth avoiding NBN 12 plans if you have heavy internet usage, such as streaming in high definition, online gaming or multiple devices connected simultaneously. NBN 12 plans may not provide the necessary speed and bandwidth for these activities, leading to a subpar online experience. Consider higher-speed NBN tiers or internet plans for better performance.

Helpful guides on internet plans

Internet Banner - A young woman using a tablet computer in a cafe

What is 5G?

5G is the latest in mobile technology available in Australia, providing better reception and faster internet. 5G is becoming more...

Internet Banner - Woman sitting on the couch on her laptop

Fibre Internet Plans

Fibre internet plans provide an alternative fixed line connection to the NBN for eligible homes in Australia. There are plenty...

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

How Much Does Internet Cost?

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

Internet Banner: Person sitting on a person's back while holding a tablet

HFC NBN Explained

Find out more about HFC connections on the NBN, how they work and their potential speeds. HFC is a unique...

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 - 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...

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 - Senior couple looking at a tablet while sitting on the couch together

What NBN Speed Do I Need?

It’s crucial to know which NBN speed tiers are available so you can determine which is the best for your...

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 - 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...

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.