Consumer advocacy group calls for NBN Co to phase out 25Mbps plans within five years

As Australia moves deeper into the digital age, the need for faster and more reliable Internet has never been more important. 

Yet, many Australians still rely on entry-level NBN plans offering just 25Mbps download speeds and 5Mbps upload speeds. These speeds, which were once sufficient, are quickly becoming outdated. 

To address this growing issue, the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) has called for NBN Co to phase out the 25Mbps plan and make 50Mbps the new entry-level offer.

Phasing out NBN 25 plans

In its recent consultation paper, ACCAN recommended that NBN Co make 50Mbps the baseline speed for entry-level NBN plans. This suggestion comes as part of a broader strategy to modernise the National Broadband Network (NBN) and ensure it meets the needs of Australian consumers well into the future. 

According to ACCAN, NBN Co’s own data suggests that by the end of FY29, approximately 65% of customers will be on 100Mbps plans. 

With this in mind, the consumer advocacy group argues that the NBN 25 plan should be phased out and replaced with faster, more reliable options like the NBN 50 plan.

NBN Co’s push for multi-gigabit speeds: Is it the right focus?

While NBN Co is set to roll out ultra-fast plans offering speeds of 2Gbps or more, ACCAN has expressed concerns that this focus may be misaligned with the needs of the average consumer. 

The advocacy group points out that NBN Co has not provided sufficient evidence to justify the need for NBN 2000 plans, which are expected to launch in September 2025.

Factors such as the "increase in time spent online" and the potential impact of new technologies like augmented and virtual reality have been cited as reasons for the shift to ultra-fast speeds, but ACCAN believes these claims remain "inadequately substantiated."

For most Australian households, the focus should be on providing reliable, mid-tier speed options that can keep up with everyday Internet usage. 

Instead of focusing on fringe cases like emerging technologies, ACCAN believes that NBN Co should focus on meeting the needs of the average consumer by ensuring that more people can access the speeds they need for work, entertainment, and education.

Why 50Mbps is the ideal entry-level speed

For many Australian households, Internet usage has expanded far beyond basic browsing. With the growing demand for streaming services, video conferencing, online gaming, and remote work, the 25Mbps download and 5Mbps upload speeds provided by entry-level NBN plans are no longer sufficient. 

Slow download speeds lead to buffering and interruptions when streaming content, while slow upload speeds can cause frustrating lag during video calls or difficulty sending large files.

A 50Mbps plan would offer a substantial improvement in the overall Internet experience, providing faster download speeds, smoother video streaming, and more reliable video conferencing. 

It would also be better suited to households with multiple devices connected to the Internet at the same time - something that has become more common as smart homes and connected devices increase in popularity.

How faster speeds can improve your Internet experience

In today’s connected world, having the right Internet speed is essential for a seamless digital experience. Whether it’s for work, school, or simply enjoying your favorite content, faster speeds can make all the difference. 

A 50Mbps plan offers enough bandwidth to handle multiple activities simultaneously, making it easier for everyone in your household to stay connected without issues.

For households relying on the 25Mbps plan, upgrading to a faster option is crucial to keeping up with the demands of modern life. Faster speeds will provide more reliable connections, reduce frustrating delays, and ensure a smoother, more efficient Internet experience.

Is your current plan meeting your Internet needs?

If you're still on an entry-level NBN plan, it may be time to reconsider whether it’s meeting your Internet needs. Whether you're using the Internet for remote work, online learning, or simply enjoying content, your current plan may no longer be sufficient. 

Upgrading to a faster plan can improve your experience and ensure you’re getting the most out of your Internet connection.

Not sure which plan is right for you? Compare Broadband here to help! Our team can assist you in assessing your current Internet usage and help you find a plan that suits your needs. Don’t let slow speeds hold you back - get in touch with Compare Broadband today on 1300 764 000 to discuss your options for a faster, more reliable Internet experience.