Exciting times ahead as you embark on building or moving to a new home. But before you dive into the details, let's discuss something crucial – getting connected, specifically, setting up your NBN connection for your new place.

To answer the question: the time it takes to set up your broadband connection in your new home will depend on whether you are installing NBN equipment for the first time, your available technology type, or simply switching providers. 

If your home is already NBN-ready, you’re looking at a connection time of around ten days if a technician is required or as little as 15 mins if you have a BYO modem and no additional work is required. 

Switching to a new provider can take as little as fifteen minutes - but it all really depends on your connection type, too. 

NBN-ready? Connection times by technology type

There are seven distinct connection types, each connected to the network differently. Some use more copper, while others operate via wireless or satellite connections. It's worth noting that you don’t get to choose your technology type; it was determined for you by the government.

Different technologies require different setups, some involving a technician visit, which can increase your wait time.

For new developments with pre-installed in-home setups or FTTB connections where the NBN technician simply puts the hardware into a central location, the wait time is usually shorter. Conversely, Fixed Wireless NBN connections and Sky Muster satellite installations take longer.

Internet service providers handle the connection to the NBN technology equipment, while the NBN is responsible for the infrastructure. Your wait time will depend on the availability of registered NBN technicians. Let’s dive in.

FTTP homes

For FTTP homes, if installation isn't complete an NBN technician may be required to complete the work. This may take up to three weeks. 

If an NBN technician visit is necessary, the technician will install an NBN box both outside and inside the property, a process that typically takes a few hours. 

Inside the home, the NBN connection box serves as a modem, connecting to a compatible router or 'bridge mode' modem-router. If the NBN hardware is already installed, expect to be connected within one to two business days. 

HFC homes

HFC connections can be self-installed or done by an NBN installer. Standard installation takes 2-4 hours, but complex setups can take up to 8 hours. 

After installation, connect a router to the NBN connection box. If your provider sends a router, it should arrive pre-configured. Otherwise, check its website or contact them for instructions. 

FTTC homes

Installation typically takes 15 minutes to a couple of hours. While some homes can self-install, some require an NBN technician. 

Installation involves running a phone cable between the NBN box and a telephone socket, then powering on the device. 

FTTC needs a router for Wi-Fi and Ethernet sharing, as the NBN box offers only one Ethernet connection.

FTTN and FTTB homes

FTTN and FTTB are similar technologies that use a VDSL2-compatible modem-router to connect to the NBN. If you don’t have one, ask your provider about its supported models. 

Like FTTC, these modem-routers need power and a telephone cable connection to the wall socket. Unlike FTTC, it doesn’t need an external router, and you can connect devices via Ethernet or Wi-Fi. 

Connection times range from 15 minutes to 48 hours after hardware setup.

Free fibre upgrade

If your home is connected to the NBN via an FTTN or FTTC connection, you may be eligible for a free upgrade to FTTP. This can increase the speed and reliability of your home internet connection. You can find out more about the program in our guide to the free fibre upgrade.

Home wireless technology

Home wireless broadband uses mobile networks, not cables. Setting up is simple: unbox your modem, plug it in, and connect to your network. Whether it's 4G or 5G, you'll be browsing immediately. 

However, downtime can occur. Technical issues or outages may delay your connection. If 5G isn't available, you'll connect to 4G until it is. If your provider's network doesn't cover you, you won't be able to connect at all. 

Overall, wireless broadband offers quick setup and immediate browsing, but potential downtime due to network issues.

Mobile broadband

Mobile broadband operates similarly to home wireless, connecting to an existing network. 

Charge your modem and insert your SIM card for instant connectivity without downtime. Ideal for quick connections, mobile broadband's data allowances are often limited, but many plans are contract-free when purchasing the modem or dongle outright.

Sky Muster Satellite and fixed wireless homes

For fixed wireless and Sky Muster satellite connections, if there's no equipment installed at your address you will need an NBN technician. Installations typically take up to 28 days after ordering a plan. 

An NBN technician will visit to determine if a standard (roof mount) or non-standard installation (elsewhere on your property) is needed for the outdoor antenna. This antenna is connected to an external box, and an NBN connection box is installed inside your home. 

Standard installations take about two to four hours. The NBN connection box acts as a modem, so you'll need to connect it to a router to share the Internet with your devices.

Other tech types

Private fibre or cable connections are common, with Opticomm boasting the largest private fibre network nationally. 

Connection times vary by provider, but the niche nature of these industries may mean faster technician availability compared to traditional NBN services.

Moving to an NBN-ready house

Moving to a new house with an existing NBN plan? Here are your options for Internet connection:

• Transfer your existing plan: Contact your service provider to transfer your NBN plan to your new address. The team will arrange for the transfer of your phone and Internet services to keep you connected.
• Switch to a new plan: Consider switching to a new plan offered by your current provider or another provider. Research and compare plans to find the best option for your needs and place an order to switch providers if necessary.

Timeframes for switching providers

The amount of downtime when switching Internet providers depends on your connection type. If it's not your first NBN connection and the technology remains the same, switching can take as little as 15 minutes with no downtime. 

However, if you're changing from one connection type to another, you'll start from scratch, facing the standard ten-business-day waiting period for activation with some types of technology.

Installing NBN equipment

Building a new home is an exciting adventure, and part of the thrill is setting up modern conveniences like high-speed Internet. 

Connecting to the NBN in Australia is simpler than you might think, but it's important to understand the process, timelines, and what Internet service providers (ISPs) can offer.

When it comes to signing up for your first NBN plan, be prepared for a process that can stretch beyond a quick 15-minute to one-hour timeframe. Regardless of your chosen provider, the installation of your NBN equipment can take up to six weeks. This timeline is due to the various steps involved in getting a new NBN service up and running.

Check which connections are available

It's essential to ask about the availability of fibre to the premises and the NBN network in a new housing development to guarantee seamless connectivity in your new home. 

When scouting for a block of land, be sure to ask the developer whether the development is NBN-ready or if they have submitted an NBN New Developments application.

Talk to your builder

To plan your connectivity needs effectively, consider the devices you'll use, your home's design, and where you want the NBN connection box to be located. Marking these details on a home plan can be beneficial when discussing them with your builder.

Initiating a conversation with your builder early on about submitting a pre-installation request for the NBN connection box will ensure a smooth transition into your new home.

If you're building a new home on the same block of land where your current home is connected to fibre to the curb (FTTC) and the NBN network, you may need to submit a Relocation Works application. This application will relocate the FTTC and NBN network to the most suitable area within your land to ensure a seamless reconnection.

Select your provider

Start by researching and comparing offerings from different Internet providers in Australia. Look at factors like speed, reliability, customer service, and pricing, but don't forget to check which providers actually service your new area.

You should also consider what you need from a plan. Think about your budget, online activities, and the number of users in your household. This will help you narrow down the options and find a plan that suits your needs.

Once you have a list of potential providers, compare available plans. Look at factors like speed tiers and any additional features or perks. The last thing for you to do is to read reviews. You can get an idea of the provider's reputation and customer satisfaction levels.

Get ready for connection

Now that you’ve chosen your provider and you’ve talked to the builder, you can get ready for your new connection. Clear the area where the NBN equipment will be installed and ensure there's a nearby powerpoint and power supply available.

An NBN technician will visit your home to set up the equipment. They may need to drill holes and install equipment both inside and outside your home. Once this is done, all you have to do is wait for your Internet provider to inform you when your NBN connection is ready for use.

From here, you can connect your devices to your new connection. Use the Wi-Fi network name and password provided by your Internet provider to connect your devices to the NBN network.

What’s the installation timeframe?

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. These include 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.

To ensure a smooth installation process, check with your NBN provider at least 2-3 months before handover for its specific timeline. Additionally, working closely with your builder or contractor to prepare your premises for NBN installation can help minimise potential delays.

Get connected today

Now that you know how long it’ll take, your next step should be to contact the Compare Broadband team. We’ll help you to get connected to your new provider and walk you through how to get started.