- Learn about NBN and its importance for Aussie homes, offering fast and reliable Internet connections.
- Explore the cheapest NBN plans available in 2025, comparing speeds, data, and pricing.
- Understand the different NBN connection types (HFC, FTTN, FTTP) and how to find a cheap provider in your area.
The National Broadband Network (NBN) has revolutionised the way Australians access the Internet. Whether you're working from home, streaming your favourite shows, or simply browsing the web, reliable and affordable Internet is essential.
With the variety of NBN plans available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs. Let’s explore the cheapest NBN plans for 2025, the different types of NBN connections, and how to find the most cost-effective provider in your area.
What is NBN and why it's crucial for Aussie homes
The National Broadband Network (NBN) is Australia’s nationwide initiative designed to provide fast and reliable Internet access to homes, businesses, and other facilities across the country.
It is a critical infrastructure project that has long replaced slower Internet connections such as ADSL and dial-up with more modern, high-speed alternatives. The NBN connects homes to the Internet using a variety of technologies, including fibre optics, hybrid fibre-coaxial (HFC) cables, fixed wireless, and satellite.
With the increasing reliance on the Internet for work, education, entertainment, and everyday communication, NBN access has become essential for modern Australian households. Whether it’s for remote work, video calls, streaming, online gaming, or even running a home business, a fast and reliable Internet connection is no longer a luxury but a necessity.
Enhanced speed and reliability
The NBN offers speeds far superior to traditional broadband connections. Depending on the connection type and plan, NBN can provide speeds from 25 Mbps up to 1,000 Mbps.
This increase in speed translates to faster downloads, smoother streaming, quicker web browsing, and better performance for online activities. For households with multiple users or those who work from home, the NBN ensures everyone can stay connected without experiencing slowdowns.
Supporting work and education
In today’s digital world, many Australians rely on the Internet for their work and education. With the rise of remote working and online learning, having a stable and fast connection is vital.
The NBN supports video conferencing, cloud-based applications, and other online tools that are necessary for modern work and study environments. This is especially important for rural or remote areas where access to physical workplaces or schools may be limited.
Entertainment and streaming
Streaming services like Netflix, Stan, Disney+, and YouTube require a stable and fast Internet connection to deliver high-definition content without buffering.
The NBN has enabled Australian households to access high-quality streaming and on-demand entertainment. The improved speeds also enhance the experience of gaming, allowing for seamless, lag-free play, which is crucial for both casual gamers and professionals alike.
Future-proofing homes
As technology advances, the demand for faster Internet will only continue to grow. With 4K and 8K streaming becoming more common, cloud gaming, and the increasing number of connected devices in smart homes, the NBN is crucial for ensuring that homes remain connected to the latest technologies.
Upgrading to NBN ensures that homes are equipped to handle future demands and technological changes.
Bridging the digital divide
For many rural and remote communities, connecting to the NBN has been an opportunity to bridge the digital divide. Before the introduction of the NBN, residents in these areas often faced slower speeds and less reliable connections, which could hinder access to online services and educational resources.
The NBN provides equal access to high-speed Internet across the country, reducing the gap between urban and rural areas.
The cheapest NBN plans available in 2025
With multiple NBN providers offering a range of plans, finding the most affordable one can save you a significant amount of money. Here are some of the cheapest NBN plans available in 2025:
TPG NBN 50
- Best for: TPG is great for households that need moderate speed for HD streaming, browsing, and working from home.
Aussie Broadband NBN 50
- Best for: Aussie Broadband is known for reliable performance and excellent customer support, making it a great choice for most users.
Optus NBN 25 plan
- Best for: Budget-conscious users who only need basic Internet for browsing, email, and social media should turn to Optus.
Belong NBN 50
- Best for: Users who want reliable speeds with Belong for general usage without paying for extras they don’t need.
These options offer various speeds to suit different types of usage. If you're a heavy user, consider higher-speed plans, but if you're just browsing and emailing, a more affordable option like the NBN 12 plan might be sufficient.
Types of NBN connections
The NBN is delivered through different connection technologies, and the type available to your home can affect the speed and reliability of your Internet. Here are the main types of NBN connections:
HFC (Hybrid Fibre-Coaxial)
A widely used connection type that combines fibre and coaxial cables, providing speeds of up to 1000 Mbps (depending on your plan). Ideal for urban areas.
FTTN (Fibre to the Node)
This connection type delivers fibre optic cables to a nearby node, with the final leg of the connection using existing copper telephone lines. While speeds can vary, FTTN typically offers download speeds ranging from 25 Mbps to 100 Mbps.
FTTP (Fibre to the Premises)
This is the fastest and most reliable connection, with fibre running directly to your home. FTTP can provide speeds of up to 1000 Mbps and is ideal for heavy users and large households.
FTTC (Fibre to the Curb)
A hybrid technology that brings fibre to a street cabinet and then uses the existing copper lines to deliver Internet to your home. FTTC offers better speeds than FTTN but isn't as fast as FTTP.
Fixed Wireless
A wireless option for rural and remote areas where fibre isn't yet available. Speeds can vary depending on your location, but typical speeds range from 25 Mbps to 100 Mbps.
The type of NBN connection you have will influence your Internet experience, so it's essential to understand what’s available in your area when choosing a plan. You should also know that you can’t CHOOSE the connection you get. Instead, you have control over the plan and provider you sign up with.
Compare NBN plans based on speed, data, and price
When selecting an NBN plan, it's important to compare options based on speed, data allowance, and price:
- Speed: Choose a plan that matches your usage needs. NBN 25 is suitable for light users, while NBN 50 and NBN 100 are better for households with multiple users or those who frequently stream or game online.
- Data: Most NBN plans are unlimited, but check to ensure your chosen provider offers no data caps if you plan on heavy usage. Some cheaper plans might have limits, which could lead to extra charges if exceeded.
- Price: Consider your budget when selecting a plan. There are plenty of budget-friendly options available for basic Internet usage, but if you require faster speeds or more advanced features, expect to pay more.
How to find a cheap NBN provider in your area
Finding a cheap NBN provider that suits your needs and offers good value can sometimes be a challenge due to the variety of options available in different areas.
Prices can vary based on the NBN connection type, the plan you choose, and the service provider you go with. To help you find the most affordable option in your area, follow these essential steps:
Check NBN availability
Not all NBN connection types are available in every area. Depending on where you live, your home may be connected via different technologies such as Fibre to the Premises (FTTP), Fibre to the Node (FTTN), Hybrid Fibre-Coaxial (HFC), or Fixed Wireless. The type of connection you have can influence the speed and reliability of your NBN service.
Contact Compare Broadband
Using comparison websites is one of the fastest and most efficient ways to find the cheapest NBN plans in your area, and Compare Broadband is the perfect tool for this.
Our team compares plans from a wide range of NBN providers, allowing you to filter options based on key factors like price, speed, data limits, and contract length.
Compare Broadband makes it easy to see which providers offer the best value tailored to your needs, helping you make an informed decision in no time.
Look for special offers
Many NBN providers offer special promotions, especially for new customers, which can significantly reduce the cost of your plan in the first few months. Common promotions include:
- Free or discounted installation: Some providers waive installation fees or offer discounts for new customers, which can save you a substantial amount upfront.
- Discounted monthly fees: Promotional pricing is often offered for the first six months or a year of the contract. For example, a plan that typically costs $70 per month might be discounted to $50 per month for the first six months.
- Bonus rewards or services: Some providers bundle extras such as streaming subscriptions (e.g., Netflix, Disney+) or gift cards with their plans, adding extra value.
While promotional offers can help you save initially, be sure to check the regular pricing after the discount period ends, as it could increase significantly.
Review additional fees and charges
In addition to the monthly cost, make sure to review any additional fees associated with the NBN plan. Some providers charge setup or activation fees, while others may charge for modem rentals. Be sure to factor these into the total cost of the plan to get a true picture of your monthly expenses.
- Modem fees: Some providers offer to include a modem for free, while others may charge for one. If you already have a compatible modem, you might be able to save by avoiding these fees.
- Early termination fees: If you choose a contract-based plan, be aware of any early termination fees if you need to cancel the service before the contract ends. These fees can range from a few hundred dollars to the remainder of the contract.
By thoroughly reviewing all the associated costs and special offers, you can ensure you're choosing the best value for your budget.
Connect with Compare Broadband today
Whether you're a light user or a heavy data consumer, Compare Broadband can help you find the ideal NBN plan for your home. All you have to do is call 1300 764 000 now and chat to our friendly team.
Compare speeds, prices, and data options to ensure you're getting the best value. Shop around and choose a provider that offers the best service in your area, and start enjoying fast, reliable Internet at a price that suits your budget.