As of December 2024, 82% of homes and businesses on NBN’s fixed-line network can get speeds close to 1 Gbps. That means super-smooth streaming, lightning-fast downloads, and no lag for gaming or remote work.
In Australia, NBN has transformed how people stay connected, and it’s only getting better. As NBN continues to roll out its fibre network, Aussies will enjoy more coverage, stronger reliability, and cutting-edge tech that keeps up with the growing demand for high-speed internet.
As a leading internet service provider in South Australia, RBE Internet has seen the role NBN has played in transforming the digital landscape in the cities and the bush. In this quick read, we will explain what NBN is, its key benefits, and its future.
Here we go.
What is NBN?
NBN stands for National Broadband Network. The purpose of launching NBN in Australia was to upgrade the old phone and internet infrastructure with an advanced fibre optic network. It connects homes and businesses with fast, reliable internet, no matter where they are.
However, NBN itself doesn’t sell internet plans. Instead, it supplies broadband to local internet service providers (ISPs), who then offer different plans to customers. If you plan to upgrade your home internet plan, find a local NBN provider to get the ball rolling.
What Are the Objectives of NBN?
In Australia, NBN was launched to future-proof the connectivity for everyone:
1. Universal Access
NBN aims to bring high-speed broadband to nearly every home and business, whether you live in a city or bush. In the area it already serves, NBN offers a range of plans suitable for every need, from simple browsing and online shopping to video streaming and online gaming.
2. Boosting the Economy & Everyday Life
NBN is also helping business owners, solopreneurs, students, and healthcare providers thrive. In fact, one in five NBN users has reported an increase in income or started a new business thanks to better connectivity.
3. Upgrading Outdated Infrastructure
The NBN is replacing outdated copper networks with high-speed fibre-optic technology, ensuring faster internet and reliable connectivity for ever-growing high-speed internet demand. That’s the future of the NBN.
Technologies Used in the NBN
NBN uses different technologies to keep everyone connected:
- Fibre-Optic Cable: Superfast speeds with new fibre connections. Ideal for those who need top performance.
- Existing Copper Lines: Some areas still use copper, but upgrades are improving speeds.
- Fixed Wireless: Delivers broadband where fibre and copper aren’t an option, great for regional areas.
- Satellite: Keeps remote and rural communities connected when other options aren’t available.
Rolling Out NBN in Australia
The government began rolling out NBN in Australia in 2010 with plans to wrap it up by 2020. By June 2020, over 8.5 million premises had active NBN services. Although the rollout encountered various delays, the network is now nearly complete.
To connect to the NBN, you must contact your preferred phone or NBN provider. It’s essential to switch to NBN as your existing services will be switched off once the NBN becomes available in your area.
Current Status of NBN Rollout in Australia
As mentioned, the rollout has experienced a few delays, and it’s still in progress.
Completion and Coverage
The NBN has come a long way since it was first rolled out. By June 2023, 12.3 million Australian homes and businesses could connect to the NBN access network, up from 12.1 million in June 2022.
Performance and Speeds
People are enjoying an average fixed broadband download speed of 79.18 Mbps as of Jan 2025, thanks to the rollout of NBN in Australia. While this is a notable improvement over past speeds, it still falls short compared to some other advanced economies. Continued efforts to enhance service quality, particularly in areas reliant on the multi-technology mix (MTM) approach, are necessary.
What Are the Benefits of NBN?
So, what are the benefits of NBN? Can you expect even higher speeds, better digitalization, and improved coverage for different sectors? The short answer is – YES!
1. Enhanced Digital Lifestyle
The NBN has significantly transformed digital experiences for Australians. Faster, more reliable internet speeds support seamless streaming, quicker downloads, and smoother online gaming experiences. This improved connectivity fosters better communication and entertainment for Australian households.
2. Boost to Businesses
For Australian businesses, the NBN is a game-changer. Enhanced productivity, through better access to digital tools and cloud services, enables businesses to operate more efficiently and competitively in the global market. Increased connectivity also supports remote work, a trend that has seen considerable growth in recent years.
3. Educational Advancements
Educational institutions benefit from the improved internet infrastructure, facilitating remote learning and access to online educational resources. This connectivity is crucial for providing equal educational opportunities to students in rural and remote areas.
4. Better Healthcare
The healthcare sector also reaps the benefits of the NBN. Telehealth services, remote patient monitoring, and access to digital medical records are all critical advancements made possible by improved internet connectivity. These innovations lead to better patient outcomes and more efficient healthcare delivery.
The Future of the NBN in Australia
The rollout is still in progress, and with the growing demand for IoT devices, and high-speed connectivity, the future of NBN looks bright. So, how will it impact connectivity?
1. Innovations and Upgrades
Looking ahead, the NBN will continue to evolve with ongoing innovations and upgrades. Efforts to transition more areas from the existing copper network to hybrid fibre coaxial networks could significantly improve service quality. Embracing new technologies and enhancing existing infrastructure will be crucial for meeting future demands.
2. Addressing Equity and Quality
Ensuring equitable access to high-quality internet services remains a priority. Addressing regional disparities and enhancing the MTM approach’s effectiveness are essential steps toward achieving this goal. By improving service consistency across all areas, the NBN can better serve all Australians.
3. Embracing Emerging Technologies
Technologies like 5G, IoT (Internet of Things), and AI are reshaping how we connect. By incorporating these with the NBN, the network can boost productivity, innovation, and seamless connectivity across industries.
4. Sustainability Considerations
NBN is constantly adopting eco-friendly practices and reducing the network’s environmental impact. From using green energy to efficient resource management, these changes will help create a more sustainable digital infrastructure for the future.
Conclusion
The NBN is a landmark project that is reshaping Australia’s digital landscape. Despite facing numerous challenges, including delays, cost overruns, and political influences, the NBN has made significant strides in providing broadband access to millions of Australians. With a focus on continuous improvement, addressing regional disparities, and integrating emerging technologies, the NBN is poised to support Australia’s digital future.
If you want to switch to an NBN network, RBE Internet can help. Choose the right plan for your needs and get flexible, high-quality services that’ll ensure you get the best from your home broadband. Contact us today and know the difference!
