At the present time I pay an annual fee to obtain my internet connection. If I sign up for broadband, is this 'connection' still required? If it is unnecessary it would seem better to make a change to broadband when the current system falls due for renewal.

You would not have to pay an annual fee with most providers. I think it would be worth investigating a new deal once your current contract expires. Most ISP (Internet Service Providers) have a monthly access charge for a given data download – eg TPG ADSL2+ 130GB for $49.99 per month. It’s worth calling several providers to see which have services available, and to compare prices, especially for super-fast ADSL2+, which is usually only available in metropolitan areas. TPG and Exetel have great deals available on ADSL and ADSL2+ plans, you can call us for assistance with these plans on 1300 764 000. Also, try the following companies for good ADSL broadband deals: Netspace: 1300 115 225 iPrimus: 1300 137 794 iiNet: 1300 137 765 If you can’t get ADSL2+ on the Telstra network with the above providers it’s always worth calling Optus on this free number as they use their own network: Optus: 1300 137 897