FTTC NBN plans: Everything you need to know

Alex Choros - Managing Editor + Group Telco Editor

Last updated 30 September 2025

Contents

In this guide:

What is Fibre to the Curb?
FTTC speeds
How much does an FTTC plan cost?
What equipment will I need for FTTC NBN?
How does FTTC NBN work?
How do I upgrade my FTTC NBN?
NBN alternatives
FAQs

Researching the NBN can be overwhelming; it's full of complex acronyms and confusing technical terms. But the info you actually need to know is simpler than you think. In this guide, we’ll explain what FTTC NBN is, how to pick a plan that's right for you, and what you’ll need to get online.

Just note that you can’t choose how your NBN is connected. Your NBN type depends on your address and the infrastructure that is being built in your area. While you can't choose how you connect, full fibre upgrades are on the way for all Australians on FTTC, with most set to be finished by the end of the year.

What is Fibre to the Curb (FTTC)?

Fibre to the Curb (FTTC) is a type of internet connection where fibre optic cable is laid directly to your property's kerb or driveway and connects to the copper phone line that runs into your home.

Because of the short distance of copper, FTTC is considered more reliable than many NBN technology types, but the maximum plan speeds are slower than those achievable by those with an FTTP or HFC NBN connection.

Before we start, here are some of the cheapest plans NBN plans in our database available to FTTC addresses.

#1	SpinTel	SpinTel All Fixed Line nbn® Home Starter 25/10 All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 25/8 Mbps Unlimited Data WhistleOut Special: Includes $28.95 off your plan for first 6 months! $41/mth for first 6 months, then $69.95/mth $41/mth for first 6 mths, then $69.95/mth Min. cost $41 Go to Site	$41/mth for first 6 mths, then $69.95/mth Min. cost $41	Go to Site
#2	Tangerine Telecom	Tangerine Telecom All Fixed Line nbn® Value NBN 25/10 All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 25/8.5 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $30/mth off for the first 6 mths, $42.90/month for first 6 months, then $72.90/month. Ends 30.10.26 $42.90/mth for first 6 mths, then $72.90/mth Min. cost $42.90 Go to Site	$42.90/mth for first 6 mths, then $72.90/mth Min. cost $42.90	Go to Site
#3	Dodo	Dodo All Fixed Line nbn® nbn25 Unlimited Plan All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 25/9 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Incl. $30/mth discount for 6 months based on the standard price $73.99/mth. Ends 08.12.26. T&Cs apply. $43.99/mth for first 6 mths, then $73.99/mth Min. cost $43.99 Go to Site*	$43.99/mth for first 6 mths, then $73.99/mth Min. cost $43.99	Go to Site
#4	Moose NBN	Moose NBN All Fixed Line nbn® nbn 25/10 Value All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 25/9 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $20/mth off for first 6 months - $44.80/mth for 6mths, then $64.80/mth + Get eero 7 modem for only $175 (RRP $249). $44.80/mth for first 6 mths, then $64.80/mth Min. cost $44.80 Link not supplied	$44.80/mth for first 6 mths, then $64.80/mth Min. cost $44.80	Link not supplied
#5	Flip Editor's Pick	Flip All Fixed Line nbn® Editor's Pick Unlimited Premium nbn25 All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 25/8 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Incl. $17.90/mth off for 12 months - $48/mth for first 12 mths then $65.90/mth. New customers only. Ends 31.10.26. T&Cs apply. $48/mth for first 12 mths then $65.90/mth Min. cost $48 Go to Site	$48/mth for first 12 mths then $65.90/mth Min. cost $48	Go to Site
#6	Belong	Belong All Fixed Line nbn® NBN Starter – Unlimited All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 25/8 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $26 off for 6 months - $49/mth for first 6 mths, then $75/mth (Offer ends 04.11.26) + Free $80 Mobile SIM $49/mth for first 6 mths, then $75/mth Min. cost $49 Go to Site	$49/mth for first 6 mths, then $75/mth Min. cost $49	Go to Site
#7	Kogan Internet	Kogan Internet All Fixed Line nbn® Bronze Unlimited All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 25/8 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Incl. $21/mth off for 12mths. $49.90/mth for first 12 months then revert back to $70.90/mth. Offer available until withdrawn. $49.90/mth for first 12 mths, then $70.90/mth Min. cost $49.90 Go to Site	$49.90/mth for first 12 mths, then $70.90/mth Min. cost $49.90	Go to Site
#8	Swoop	Swoop All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® Home Casual All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 25/8 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $15/mth off for 6 months, $54/mth for first 6 months then $69/mth + Get the eero 7 for only $175 (normally $249) $54/mth for first 6 mths, then $69/mth Min. cost $54 Link not supplied	$54/mth for first 6 mths, then $69/mth Min. cost $54	Link not supplied
#9	MATE	MATE All Fixed Line nbn® Crikey nbn 25/10 All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 25/10 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $25/mth off for first 6 mths, $55/mth for first 6 mths, then reverts to $80/mth (code MATE25) + Bundle & Save + more! $55/mth for first 6 months, then $80/mth Min. cost $55 Link not supplied	$55/mth for first 6 months, then $80/mth Min. cost $55	Link not supplied
#10	Superloop	Superloop All Fixed Line nbn® Everyday nbn25/10 All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 25/8.5 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Incl. $20/mth off for 6 months! $58/mth for 6 months, then $78/mth + Bundle & Save $58/mth for first 6 mths, then $78/mth Min. cost $58 Go to Site	$58/mth for first 6 mths, then $78/mth Min. cost $58	Go to Site

#1	Belong	Belong All Fixed Line nbn® NBN Standard Plus – Unlimited All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $36 off for 6 months - $55/mth for first 6 mths, then $91/mth (Offer ends 04.11.26) + Free $80 Mobile SIM $55/mth for first 6 mths, then $91/mth Min. cost $55 Go to Site	$55/mth for first 6 mths, then $91/mth Min. cost $55	Go to Site
#2	Dodo Editor's Pick	Dodo All Fixed Line nbn® Editor's Pick nbn50 Unlimited Plan All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Incl. $30/mth discount for 6 months based on the standard price $87.99/mth. Ends 08.12.26. T&Cs apply. $57.99/mth for first 6 mths, then $87.99/mth Min. cost $57.99 Go to Site*	$57.99/mth for first 6 mths, then $87.99/mth Min. cost $57.99	Go to Site
#3	Moose NBN	Moose NBN All Fixed Line nbn® nbn 50/20 Premium All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/18 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $24/mth off for first 6 months - $59.80/mth for 6mths, then $83.80/mth + Get eero 7 modem for only $175 (RRP $249). $59.80/mth for first 6 mths, then $83.80/mth Min. cost $59.80 Link not supplied	$59.80/mth for first 6 mths, then $83.80/mth Min. cost $59.80	Link not supplied
#4	Tangerine Telecom	Tangerine Telecom All Fixed Line nbn® Value Plus NBN 50/20 All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $25/mth off for the first 6 mths, $64.90/month for first 6 months, then $89.90/month. $64.90/mth for first 6 mths, then $89.90/mth Min. cost $64.90 Go to Site	$64.90/mth for first 6 mths, then $89.90/mth Min. cost $64.90	Go to Site
#5	Flip	Flip All Fixed Line nbn® Unlimited Family nbn50 All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Incl. $16.90/mth off for 6 months - $68/mth for first 6mths then $84.90/mth. New customers only. Ends 31.10.26. T&Cs apply. $68/mth for first 6 mths then $84.90/mth Min. cost $68 Go to Site	$68/mth for first 6 mths then $84.90/mth Min. cost $68	Go to Site
#6	Swoop	Swoop All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® Home Everyday All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $15/mth off for 6 months, $69/mth for first 6 months then $84/mth + Get the eero 7 for only $175 (normally $249) $69/mth for first 6 mths, then $84/mth Min. cost $69 Link not supplied	$69/mth for first 6 mths, then $84/mth Min. cost $69	Link not supplied
#7	Superloop	Superloop All Fixed Line nbn® Extra-value nbn50/20 All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Incl. $20/mth off for 6 months! $69/mth for 6 mths, then $89/mth + Bundle & Save $69/mth for first 6 mths, then $89/mth Min. cost $69 Go to Site	$69/mth for first 6 mths, then $89/mth Min. cost $69	Go to Site
#8	Kogan Internet	Kogan Internet All Fixed Line nbn® Silver Unlimited All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Incl. $11/mth off for 12mths. $69.90/mth for first 12 months then revert back to $80.90/mth. Offer available until withdrawn. $69.90/mth for first 12 mths, then $80.90/mth Min. cost $69.90 Go to Site	$69.90/mth for first 12 mths, then $80.90/mth Min. cost $69.90	Go to Site
#9	TPG	TPG All Fixed Line nbn® nbn50 Unlimited Plan All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: $69.99/mth for first 6 months, then $89.99/mth. T&Cs apply. $69.99/mth for first 6 mths, then $89.99/mth Min. cost $69.99 Link not supplied	$69.99/mth for first 6 mths, then $89.99/mth Min. cost $69.99	Link not supplied
#10	iiNet	iiNet All Fixed Line nbn® nbn50 Liimitless All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $20/mth off for 6 mths – $69.99/mth for first 6 months, then $89.99/mth. Use code SAVE20FOR6 $69.99/mth + $10 Upfront for first 6 mths, then $89.99/mth Min. cost $79.99 Link not supplied	$69.99/mth + $10 Upfront for first 6 mths, then $89.99/mth Min. cost $79.99	Link not supplied

#1	amaysim	amaysim FTTN, FTTB, FTTC NBN100 FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 100/18 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $40/mth off for the first 6 months ($30 NBN Sale + $10 Standard Intro Offer), then $90/mth. Ends 20.10.26 $50/mth for first 6 months, then $90/mth Min. cost $50 Go to Site	$50/mth for first 6 months, then $90/mth Min. cost $50	Go to Site
#2	Belong	Belong FTTN, FTTB, FTTC NBN Premium – Unlimited FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 100/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $36 off for 6 months - $59/mth for first 6 mths, then $95/mth (Offer ends 04.11.26) + Free $80 Mobile SIM $59/mth for first 6 mths, then $95/mth Min. cost $59 Go to Site	$59/mth for first 6 mths, then $95/mth Min. cost $59	Go to Site
#3	Dodo Editor's Pick	Dodo FTTN, FTTB, FTTC Editor's Pick nbn100 Unlimited Plan FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 100/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Incl. $30/mth discount for 6 months based on the standard price $92.99/mth. Ends 08.12.26. T&Cs apply. $62.99/mth for first 6 mths, then $92.99/mth Min. cost $62.99 Go to Site*	$62.99/mth for first 6 mths, then $92.99/mth Min. cost $62.99	Go to Site
#4	Moose NBN	Moose NBN FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn 100/20 Elite FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 100/18 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $23/mth off for first 6 months - $63.80/mth for 6mths, then $86.80/mth + Get eero 7 modem for only $175 (RRP $249). $63.80/mth for first 6 mths, then $86.80/mth Min. cost $63.80 Link not supplied	$63.80/mth for first 6 mths, then $86.80/mth Min. cost $63.80	Link not supplied
#5	Tangerine Telecom	Tangerine Telecom FTTN, FTTB, FTTC Speedy NBN 100/20 FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 100/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $25/mth off for the first 6 mths, $67.90/mth for first 6 months, then $92.90/mth. $67.90/mth for first 6 mths, then $92.90/mth Min. cost $67.90 Go to Site	$67.90/mth for first 6 mths, then $92.90/mth Min. cost $67.90	Go to Site
#6	Flip	Flip FTTN, FTTB, FTTC Unlimited Turbo Boost nbn100 FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 100/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Incl. $19.90/mth off for 6 months - $69/mth for first 6mths then $88.90/mth. New customers only. Ends 31.10.26. T&Cs apply. $69/mth for first 6 mths then $88.90/mth Min. cost $69 Go to Site	$69/mth for first 6 mths then $88.90/mth Min. cost $69	Go to Site
#7	Kogan Internet	Kogan Internet FTTN, FTTB, FTTC Gold Unlimited FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 98/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Incl. $16/mth off for 12mths. $69.90/mth for first 12 months then revert back to $85.90/mth. Offer available until withdrawn. $69.90/mth for first 12 mths, then $85.90/mth Min. cost $69.90 Go to Site	$69.90/mth for first 12 mths, then $85.90/mth Min. cost $69.90	Go to Site
#8	iiNet	iiNet FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn Home Fast Liimitless FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 99/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $25/mth off for 6 mths - $69.99/mth for first 6 months, then $94.99/mth. Use code SAVE25FOR6 $69.99/mth + $10 Upfront for first 6 mths, then $94.99/mth Min. cost $79.99 Link not supplied	$69.99/mth + $10 Upfront for first 6 mths, then $94.99/mth Min. cost $79.99	Link not supplied
#9	Swoop	Swoop FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® Home Fast FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 100/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $22/mth off for 6 months, $72/mth for first 6 mths then $94/mth + Get the eero 7 for only $175 (normally $249) $72/mth for first 6 mths, then $94/mth Min. cost $72 Link not supplied	$72/mth for first 6 mths, then $94/mth Min. cost $72	Link not supplied
#10	Superloop	Superloop FTTN, FTTB, FTTC Family nbn100/20 FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 95/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Incl. $21/mth off 6 months! $74/mth for 6 mths, then $95/mth + Bundle & Save $74/mth for first 6 mths, then $95/mth Min. cost $74 Go to Site	$74/mth for first 6 mths, then $95/mth Min. cost $74	Go to Site

FTTC speeds

When you're ordering an NBN plan, you're able to pick from several different speed tiers. Only speeds up to NBN 100 are available to those with an FTTC connection, however.

Speed tier	Best for	Max. speeds
NBN 12	Lone, low internet users	12Mbps
NBN 25	Budget pick for 1-2 people	25Mbps
NBN 50	All-rounder for small households of 2-4 people	50Mbps
NBN 100	For WFH and larger households	100Mbps
NBN 250	Faster speeds for WFH and larger households	250Mbps
NBN 500	Seamless internet experience when everyone is online	500Mbps
NBN 750	Even faster speeds for simultaneous use	750Mbps
NBN 1000	The fastest speeds you can get for less than $100 per month	1000Mbps
NBN 2000	The fastest speeds you can get right now, at a premium	2000Mbps

_{Note: Speed tiers above NBN 100 are only available at premises with FTTP and HFC connection types.}

Some FTTC connections may struggle to achieve maximum speeds on an NBN 100 plan. This is because FTTC connections still use a bit of the original copper. The more copper in your connection, the slower its maximum capacity is. Most households will be able to get an NBN 100 plan on FTTC, but your provider may contact you if it's not possible for your connection.

There is good news, however: NBN Co is upgrading FTTC areas to FTTP. We'll touch on this a little later in this guide.

Here's a selection of the fastest NBN 100 plans you can get right now:

#1	amaysim	amaysim FTTN, FTTB, FTTC NBN100 FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 100/18 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $40/mth off for the first 6 months ($30 NBN Sale + $10 Standard Intro Offer), then $90/mth. Ends 20.10.26 $50/mth for first 6 months, then $90/mth Min. cost $50 Go to Site	$50/mth for first 6 months, then $90/mth Min. cost $50	Go to Site
#2	Belong	Belong FTTN, FTTB, FTTC NBN Premium – Unlimited FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 100/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $36 off for 6 months - $59/mth for first 6 mths, then $95/mth (Offer ends 04.11.26) + Free $80 Mobile SIM $59/mth for first 6 mths, then $95/mth Min. cost $59 Go to Site	$59/mth for first 6 mths, then $95/mth Min. cost $59	Go to Site
#3	Dodo Editor's Pick	Dodo FTTN, FTTB, FTTC Editor's Pick nbn100 Unlimited Plan FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 100/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Incl. $30/mth discount for 6 months based on the standard price $92.99/mth. Ends 08.12.26. T&Cs apply. $62.99/mth for first 6 mths, then $92.99/mth Min. cost $62.99 Go to Site*	$62.99/mth for first 6 mths, then $92.99/mth Min. cost $62.99	Go to Site
#4	Moose NBN	Moose NBN FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn 100/20 Elite FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 100/18 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $23/mth off for first 6 months - $63.80/mth for 6mths, then $86.80/mth + Get eero 7 modem for only $175 (RRP $249). $63.80/mth for first 6 mths, then $86.80/mth Min. cost $63.80 Link not supplied	$63.80/mth for first 6 mths, then $86.80/mth Min. cost $63.80	Link not supplied
#5	Tangerine Telecom	Tangerine Telecom FTTN, FTTB, FTTC Speedy NBN 100/20 FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 100/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $25/mth off for the first 6 mths, $67.90/mth for first 6 months, then $92.90/mth. $67.90/mth for first 6 mths, then $92.90/mth Min. cost $67.90 Go to Site	$67.90/mth for first 6 mths, then $92.90/mth Min. cost $67.90	Go to Site
#6	Flip	Flip FTTN, FTTB, FTTC Unlimited Turbo Boost nbn100 FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 100/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Incl. $19.90/mth off for 6 months - $69/mth for first 6mths then $88.90/mth. New customers only. Ends 31.10.26. T&Cs apply. $69/mth for first 6 mths then $88.90/mth Min. cost $69 Go to Site	$69/mth for first 6 mths then $88.90/mth Min. cost $69	Go to Site
#7	Swoop	Swoop FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® Home Fast FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 100/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $22/mth off for 6 months, $72/mth for first 6 mths then $94/mth + Get the eero 7 for only $175 (normally $249) $72/mth for first 6 mths, then $94/mth Min. cost $72 Link not supplied	$72/mth for first 6 mths, then $94/mth Min. cost $72	Link not supplied
#8	Optus	Optus FTTN, FTTB, FTTC Optus Fast nbn® FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 100/18 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: $84/mth for a year, then $99/mth or as notified. New services. Incl intro offer + extra $5/mth off. Min cost $390. Ends 6/10. $84/mth for first 12 months, then $99/mth or as notified Min. cost $84 Link not supplied	$84/mth for first 12 months, then $99/mth or as notified Min. cost $84	Link not supplied
#9	Telstra	Telstra FTTN, FTTB, FTTC Premium Internet Only Plan FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 100/17 Mbps Unlimited Data $99/mth Min. cost $99 Link not supplied	$99/mth Min. cost $99	Link not supplied
#10	iPrimus	iPrimus FTTN, FTTB, FTTC Premium Plan FTTN, FTTB, FTTC nbn® 100/17 Mbps Unlimited Data $100/mth Min. cost $100 Link not supplied	$100/mth Min. cost $100	Link not supplied

How much does an FTTC NBN plan cost?

If you're looking at an FTTC NBN plan, expect to pay between $39 and $110 per month, depending on the provider and your speed tier. The cost depends on the speed you want and the provider you sign up with. The higher the speed, the more you'll pay.

An NBN 50 may be enough for many people, providing a good balance between speed and cost. You're often looking at around $85 per month at full price, but discounts can make them cheaper for your first six months.

Here are the cheapest NBN 50 plans available right now:

#1	Belong	Belong All Fixed Line nbn® NBN Standard Plus – Unlimited All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $36 off for 6 months - $55/mth for first 6 mths, then $91/mth (Offer ends 04.11.26) + Free $80 Mobile SIM $55/mth for first 6 mths, then $91/mth Min. cost $55 Go to Site	$55/mth for first 6 mths, then $91/mth Min. cost $55	Go to Site
#2	Dodo Editor's Pick	Dodo All Fixed Line nbn® Editor's Pick nbn50 Unlimited Plan All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Incl. $30/mth discount for 6 months based on the standard price $87.99/mth. Ends 08.12.26. T&Cs apply. $57.99/mth for first 6 mths, then $87.99/mth Min. cost $57.99 Go to Site*	$57.99/mth for first 6 mths, then $87.99/mth Min. cost $57.99	Go to Site
#3	Moose NBN	Moose NBN All Fixed Line nbn® nbn 50/20 Premium All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/18 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $24/mth off for first 6 months - $59.80/mth for 6mths, then $83.80/mth + Get eero 7 modem for only $175 (RRP $249). $59.80/mth for first 6 mths, then $83.80/mth Min. cost $59.80 Link not supplied	$59.80/mth for first 6 mths, then $83.80/mth Min. cost $59.80	Link not supplied
#4	Tangerine Telecom	Tangerine Telecom All Fixed Line nbn® Value Plus NBN 50/20 All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $25/mth off for the first 6 mths, $64.90/month for first 6 months, then $89.90/month. $64.90/mth for first 6 mths, then $89.90/mth Min. cost $64.90 Go to Site	$64.90/mth for first 6 mths, then $89.90/mth Min. cost $64.90	Go to Site
#5	Flip	Flip All Fixed Line nbn® Unlimited Family nbn50 All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Incl. $16.90/mth off for 6 months - $68/mth for first 6mths then $84.90/mth. New customers only. Ends 31.10.26. T&Cs apply. $68/mth for first 6 mths then $84.90/mth Min. cost $68 Go to Site	$68/mth for first 6 mths then $84.90/mth Min. cost $68	Go to Site
#6	Swoop	Swoop All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® Home Everyday All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $15/mth off for 6 months, $69/mth for first 6 months then $84/mth + Get the eero 7 for only $175 (normally $249) $69/mth for first 6 mths, then $84/mth Min. cost $69 Link not supplied	$69/mth for first 6 mths, then $84/mth Min. cost $69	Link not supplied
#7	Superloop	Superloop All Fixed Line nbn® Extra-value nbn50/20 All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Incl. $20/mth off for 6 months! $69/mth for 6 mths, then $89/mth + Bundle & Save $69/mth for first 6 mths, then $89/mth Min. cost $69 Go to Site	$69/mth for first 6 mths, then $89/mth Min. cost $69	Go to Site
#8	Kogan Internet	Kogan Internet All Fixed Line nbn® Silver Unlimited All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Incl. $11/mth off for 12mths. $69.90/mth for first 12 months then revert back to $80.90/mth. Offer available until withdrawn. $69.90/mth for first 12 mths, then $80.90/mth Min. cost $69.90 Go to Site	$69.90/mth for first 12 mths, then $80.90/mth Min. cost $69.90	Go to Site
#9	TPG	TPG All Fixed Line nbn® nbn50 Unlimited Plan All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: $69.99/mth for first 6 months, then $89.99/mth. T&Cs apply. $69.99/mth for first 6 mths, then $89.99/mth Min. cost $69.99 Link not supplied	$69.99/mth for first 6 mths, then $89.99/mth Min. cost $69.99	Link not supplied
#10	iiNet	iiNet All Fixed Line nbn® nbn50 Liimitless All Fixed Line nbn® nbn® 50/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $20/mth off for 6 mths – $69.99/mth for first 6 months, then $89.99/mth. Use code SAVE20FOR6 $69.99/mth + $10 Upfront for first 6 mths, then $89.99/mth Min. cost $79.99 Link not supplied	$69.99/mth + $10 Upfront for first 6 mths, then $89.99/mth Min. cost $79.99	Link not supplied

What equipment will I need for an FTTC NBN?

When you connect to the National Broadband Network over FTTC, you'll need an NBN Connection Device and a wireless router. NBN Co will provide the NBN Connection Device for free, while your internet service provider will either give you or sell you a new router.

The NBN Connection Device will require a power outlet and a connection to a telephone wall socket using an RJ11 cable (the same kind of cable that connects your landline phone or ADSL modem to a wall socket).

You'll use an Ethernet cable (included in the box with your router) to connect the Connection Device to your wireless router, which also requires a power outlet. Your wireless router provides internet to the rest of your devices, and can also be used for an NBN-compatible telephone.

In most cases, NBN Co will not need to do any work inside your home to set up your FTTC connection.

Equipment used for a FTTC NBN connection

How does FTTC NBN work?

The National Broadband Network is made up of fibre-optic cables that run out across the country from major hubs and into your neighbourhood. These cables are capable of delivering incredibly fast and reliable internet.

With an FTTC connection, this cable is laid directly to your property's kerb or driveway (a distribution point), and the final connection to your house or business is made with your existing copper phone line.

This makes for a fast and reliable connection because there is typically not enough copper used in the connection to affect internet speeds.

As you can see in the image above:

The NBN has major hubs (known as Points of Interconnect) located all around the country
Fibre optic cable connects the hub to a smaller connection point (known as a Node) near your home
Fibre optic cable then runs as far as a distribution point under the street near the front of your house
Your copper phone line connects the distribution point to your house

How do I upgrade my FTTC NBN?

If you're on FTTC and want to upgrade to FTTP, you may be eligible for a free NBN upgrade. More than 4.6 million FTTN and FTTC premises are available for upgrades. You can check to see if you're covered by visiting the NBN Co website and entering your address. All FTTC addresses should be able to upgrade before the end of the year.

If you're already eligible, the next step will be to contact an eligible internet service provider and order an NBN 500 plan or faster. Most internet providers can faciliate the upgrade, and NBN 500 plans are only a few dollars per month than NBN 50, while offering ten times the speed.

In addition to faster speeds, FTTP connections tend to be more reliable. They drop out less, have faster latency, and less packet loss.

Once you've ordered a new eligible plan, an NBN Co technician will come to your property for a pre-installation visit. They'll assess your needs, identify any obstacles to installation and may do some light prep work. They'll then schedule a time to install your NBN equipment.

During installation, they'll also run fibre optic cable from the street to your property, which could involve digging a trench or drilling a hole through your wall.

Once the upgrades are finished, you'll need to cancel your old NBN plan. Note that you'll need to stay with the provider who facilitated your update for 12 months, or you may end up paying a fee.

If you can't wait for a free FTTP upgrade and moving isn't an option, NBN Co does allow you to request a paid individual premise upgrade. This is a rather costly affair, however. If you want to pay to upgrade to FTTP from FTTC ahead of schedule, you're most likely looking at thousands of dollars in fees. Possibly tens of thousands.

NBN alternatives

If you're looking for an alternative to the NBN, the most viable option is Home Wireless Broadband. This connection type uses mobile networks, the same as those that connect you to the internet on your phone, in order to connect to your home network. Both 4G and 5G options are available.

While 5G coverage isn't widely available yet, some lucky Aussies can already get a 5G home internet connection right now, and more will be able to as the rollout continues.

If you choose a plan with speeds up to 25Mbps, you'll get the equivalent of an NBN 25 plan. Speeds may be slower during peak hours. These plans may not be the best value in the long term as they're quite expensive for the speeds you get. It is worth noting Vodafone's plan has a maximum speed of 20Mbps.

Here's pricing for 5G home internet plans with speeds up to 25Mbps:

If you decide to choose a plan capped at 50Mbps, this means it's the equivalent of NBN 50, however, you may experience slightly slower speeds during peak hours. This is a great option if you're either conscious of the price or you know you won't use over 50Mbps.

Here's pricing for 5G home internet plans capped at 50Mbps:

If you choose a plan capped at 100Mbps, this means it's the equivalent of an NBN 100 plan, however, you may experience slightly slower speeds during peak hours. This is a great option for households with multiple members who regularly connect to the internet at the same time.

Here's pricing for 5G home internet plans capped at 100Mbps:

TPG Editor's Pick	TPG Editor's Pick 5G Home Broadband Premium 5G Home Internet 100/17 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Special offer - Includes $30/mth off for 6 months! $39.99/mth for first 6 months, then $69.99/mth. Available until withdrawn. $34.99/mth for 6 mths, then $69.99/mth Min. cost $34.99 Link not supplied	$34.99/mth for 6 mths, then $69.99/mth Min. cost $34.99	Link not supplied
iiNet	iiNet 5G Home Broadband Premium 5G Home Internet 100/18 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Special Offer - Includes $20/mth off for first 6 months, then $69.99/mth. Offer available until withdrawn. $49.99/mth for first 6 months, then $69.99/mth Min. cost $49.99 Link not supplied	$49.99/mth for first 6 months, then $69.99/mth Min. cost $49.99	Link not supplied
Vodafone	Vodafone 5G Home Internet Premium Plan 5G Home Internet 100/18 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $15/mth off for first 12 mths + Save $10/mth when you already have a mobile phone plan with Vodafone $60/mth for 12 mths, then $75/mth Min. cost $60 Link not supplied	$60/mth for 12 mths, then $75/mth Min. cost $60	Link not supplied
Optus	Optus Optus Plus Everyday Fast 5G 5G Home Internet 87/15 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: $64/mth for a year, then $79/mth or as notified. New services. Incl intro offer + extra $5/mth off. Min cost $532. Ends 6/10. $64/mth for first 12 months, then $79/mth or as notified Min. cost $64 Link not supplied	$64/mth for first 12 months, then $79/mth or as notified Min. cost $64	Link not supplied
Yomojo	Yomojo 5G Internet 100 5G Home Internet 75/15 Mbps Unlimited Data $84.90/mth Min. cost $84.90 Link not supplied	$84.90/mth Min. cost $84.90	Link not supplied

Three telcos currently offer uncapped plans. These can go as fast as network conditions allow but exact speeds will depend on your coverage and congestion. Generally, though we have found 200Mbps is a pretty safe average.

Optus Editor's Pick	Optus Editor's Pick Optus Plus Entertainer Superfast 5G 5G Home Internet 230/20 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: $84/mth for a year, then $99/mth or as notified. New services. Incl intro offer + extra $5/mth off. Min cost $552. Ends 6/10. $84/mth for first 12 months, then $99/mth or as notified Min. cost $84 Link not supplied	$84/mth for first 12 months, then $99/mth or as notified Min. cost $84	Link not supplied
SpinTel	SpinTel 5G Unlimited Wireless Broadband (240Mbit) 5G Home Internet 240 Mbps Unlimited Data $89/mth + $25 Upfront Min. cost $114 Link not supplied	$89/mth + $25 Upfront Min. cost $114	Link not supplied
Telstra	Telstra Premium 5G Home Internet - 1TB 5G Home Internet 300/30 Mbps 1000GB Data $95/mth Min. cost $95 Link not supplied	$95/mth Min. cost $95	Link not supplied
Yomojo	Yomojo 5G Internet Max 5G Home Internet 225/20 Mbps Unlimited Data $105.90/mth Min. cost $105.90 Link not supplied	$105.90/mth Min. cost $105.90	Link not supplied

4G home wireless internet plans are more widely available but have much slower speeds. You'll typically get maximum download speeds of 20Mbps, which is far slower than what an FTTC connection is capable of.

#1	TPG	TPG 5G Home Broadband Plus 5G Home Internet 50/16 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Special offer - Includes $30/mth off for 6 months! $29.99/mth for first 6 months, then $59.99/mth. Available until withdrawn. $29.99/mth for 6 mths, then $59.99/mth Min. cost $29.99 Link not supplied	$29.99/mth for 6 mths, then $59.99/mth Min. cost $29.99	Link not supplied
#2	iiNet	iiNet 5G Home Broadband Plus 5G Home Internet 50/16 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Special Offer - Includes $20/mth off for first 6 months, then $59.99/mth. Offer available until withdrawn. $39.99/mth for first 6 months, then $59.99/mth Min. cost $39.99 Link not supplied	$39.99/mth for first 6 months, then $59.99/mth Min. cost $39.99	Link not supplied
#3	Optus	Optus Optus Plus Everyday 5G 5G Home Internet 50/11 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: $54/mth for a year, then $69/mth or as notified. New services. Incl intro offer + extra $5/mth off. Min cost $522. Ends 6/10. $54/mth for first 12 months, then $69/mth or as notified Min. cost $54 Link not supplied	$54/mth for first 12 months, then $69/mth or as notified Min. cost $54	Link not supplied
#4	Vodafone	Vodafone 5G Home Internet Plus Plan 5G Home Internet 50/16 Mbps Unlimited Data Deal: Includes $15/mth off for first 12 mths + Save $10/mth when you already have a mobile phone plan with Vodafone $55/mth for 12 mths, then $70/mth Min. cost $55 Link not supplied	$55/mth for 12 mths, then $70/mth Min. cost $55	Link not supplied
#5	SpinTel	SpinTel 5G Unlimited Wireless Broadband (50Mbit) 5G Home Internet 50 Mbps Unlimited Data $55/mth + $25 Upfront Min. cost $80 Link not supplied	$55/mth + $25 Upfront Min. cost $80	Link not supplied
#6	Telstra	Telstra Basic 5G Home Internet - 1TB 5G Home Internet 25/5 Mbps 1000GB Data $70/mth Min. cost $70 Link not supplied	$70/mth Min. cost $70	Link not supplied
#7	Yomojo	Yomojo 5G Internet 50 5G Home Internet 42/11 Mbps Unlimited Data $75.90/mth Min. cost $75.90 Link not supplied	$75.90/mth Min. cost $75.90	Link not supplied

FTTC FAQs

Who is getting FTTC NBN?

According to NBN Co, up to 1.1 million Australian homes and businesses currently rely on NBN FTTC technology.

What happens in a power outage?

If you're connected to the NBN over FTTC, internet services won't work if there is a power outage at your place. Restoring power to your premises with an alternative power option won't do anything if the FTTC network is also experiencing an outage.

What are NBN evening speeds?

While all NBN providers resell access to the same network, maximum speeds during peak hours can vary between providers. As such, providers advertise the speeds you can expect during peak hours. These are known as 'typical evening speeds'.

How much data should I get on my plan?

Unlimited data NBN plans are effectively the norm right now. It's very rare to see an NBN plan with a data cap these days.

Do I have to sign a contract for FTTC NBN?

Like many other NBN connection types, you can simply sign up for a month-to-month NBN plan as an FTTC customer without signing a contract.

Alex Choros

Managing Editor + Group Telco Editor | X | Instagram | Threads | LinkedIn

Alex Choros is the Managing Editor of WhistleOut Australia and an award-winning journalist. He's been writing about consumer technology for over a decade and is an expert on the Australian telco sector, to the point where he knows far too many phone and internet plans by heart. In addition to leading the WhistleOut editorial team, Alex is responsible for ruining the office Sonos with his troubled taste in music.

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