Preparing to connect to the nbn™ broadband access network

Get ready for the switch with our helpful advice guide

Outbuildings and granny flats

In most cases, outbuildings or granny flats that share the same address as the primary residence on a block of land cannot apply for a new nbn™ broadband access network connection – each connection must be linked to a unique address.

To connect outbuildings or granny flats to the nbn™ access network, you may need to extend your existing connection from the primary residence – by either extending the signal of your local Wi-Fi network, or by installing an additional service through a registered cabler.

Things to consider

Applying for a new address

If you’re in the process of applying for a new address (i.e. sub-dividing one address into two or more lots), and would like to connect it to the nbn™ access network, then you should apply as a new development.

Additional services

Your provider may be able to assist you with an additional service. Be sure to discuss your plans with your provider before commencing any work as additional services may incur extra charges or require specific requirements.

Cabling
All customer cabling must be performed by a registered cabler using the nbn™ standards and guidelines.
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Register your unrecognised address with a provider

If your address doesn’t appear when you check your address, or if you would like to request an additional connection on a property with more than one residence on it, you’ll need to contact a phone and internet provider. The provider will contact nbn to assist in making these changes.

As part of the process, your provider may request information such as the coordinates of the property you wish to connect, and proof that the property is occupied.

New or under construction

By being nbn™ ready, you’ll have the opportunity to create a connected environment that helps make the most of services over the nbn™ broadband access network. 

If you are building or moving into a new home, all you need to do is ask your developer or builder if they have applied to connect to the nbn™ access network.

Renters and landlords

Connecting to the nbn™ broadband access network may require nbn™ supplied equipment to be installed within your premises by a certified technician. Therefore, you will need to inform your landlord prior to installation and receive approval before any work is commenced. If you’re not in direct contact with your landlord, you will need to contact your property manager or real estate agent.

If you’re interested in learning more about tenant rights we suggest contacting your local tenant service or union, as laws may differ between states and regions.
 

To prepare for the switch to the nbn™ broadband access network, please consider the following information:

  • Your landlord can decide where the nbn™ equipment will be installed in your property, and may be present during the installation process.
  • A landlord can also request the installation of nbn™ equipment as long as they pay for the service and agree to all terms
     

Please consider the following to help ensure a smooth installation process:

  • Installation may include drilling, ducting and trenching to accommodate cables or the installation of a satellite dish or fixed wireless antenna on the property in the walls, ceiling or on the floor
  • Notifying other residents of the works helps to ensure the installer is able to access the building safely
  • A registered cabler must be arranged to undertake any required internal wiring
  • All pets should be kept away from the area as they may possibly interfere with installation
     

Upon the arrival of your nbn™ approved technician, please inform them of any of the following environmental issues:

  • Advise your nbn™ approved technician of any electrical faults you are aware of. They may need to turn off your electrical power for a short time (the technician will discuss this with you beforehand to ensure they don’t impact critical electrical equipment such as medical devices)
  • Identify any known or suspected material on the property that many contain asbestos
  • Inform the nbn™ approved technician of any structural issues or renovations that may have been completed
  • Inform your technician about recent pest treatments on the property
  • Identify any endangered or protected plants and wildlife

For more information about the connection requirements of your premises, please speak to your phone and internet provider.

Device compatibility

The rollout of the nbn™ access network involves new technologies which some existing devices may not be compatible with such as Medical alarms, autodiallers or emergency call buttons.

Make sure you register your devices with nbn. Registering helps nbn identify premises where support may be needed to help minimise a break in service.

Installation and equipment

Depending on the location, nbn uses a mix of technologies to connect to the nbn™ broadband access network. The installation process differs by technology, so check your address to find out if the nbn™ broadband access network is available in your area and what type of technology/equipment is required to connect your premises.

Removal and relocation of nbn™ supplied equipment

If you’re intending to remove or relocate your nbn™ supplied equipment (such as a connection box, associated cables and other equipment) due to renovation, demolition or a move of premises, here is some key information around the roles and responsibilities involved.

Demolition

If you have a planned building knockdown or demolition and require the removal of nbn™ supplied equipment (such as an nbn™ connection box, associated cables and other equipment), visit the Commercial Works page and complete the application form. Someone from the Commercial Works team will be in contact to provide you with assistance and any associated costs to complete the work.

Renovation or Relocation

If you need existing nbn™ supplied equipment or cabling (such as an nbn™ connection box, associated cables and other equipment) within your building modified or relocated, you may be able to engage a registered cabler to complete this work under nbn’s Authority to Alter guidelines. This only applies to nbn’s fixed line technologies of FTTN, FTTC, HFC and FTTP. You can check the nbn technology at your address here.

A list of registered cablers can be found at the Australian Registered Cablers website*.

If you are a registered cabler, see our cabling guidelines page for information.
Alternatively, visit the Commercial Works page and complete the application form. Someone from the Commercial Works team will be in contact to help provide you with assistance and any associated costs to complete the work.

Moving house

You are required to leave the nbn™ supplied equipment such as the connection box and cables as they are (it’s important to note that this is a legal requirement). If you are moving into new residential premises, please read the next section.

Moving in

If you’re moving into a premises that’s connected to the nbn™ access network and you discover the nbn™ supplied equipment has been removed, the next step will be for you to speak directly to your phone or internet provider.

Premises that require trenching

There are some cases where a property owner may be required to organise digging a trench to prepare for a connection to the nbn™ broadband access network. If you are unsure of the trenching requirements for your premises, please contact your phone or internet provider.
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nbn is a provider of wholesale speeds to service providers. Your experience, including the speeds actually achieved over the nbn™ network, depends on the nbn™ access network technology and configuration over which services are delivered to your premises, whether you are using the internet during the busy period, and some factors outside our control (like your equipment quality, software, broadband plans, signal reception and how your service provider designs its network). Speeds may be impacted by network congestion on nbn’s Fixed Wireless network, including during busy periods. Satellite users may experience latency. nbn™ wholesale speed tiers available to your provider vary depending on the access technology in your area.