The National Broadband Network (NBN) has launched its fastest residential tier yet—NBN 500, delivering blazing 500Mbps downloads and up to 50Mbps uploads. But with premium speeds comes a premium price tag. So, how much should you actually pay for an NBN 500 plan?
After analysing the latest offers from Australia’s top ISPs, here’s a data-driven guide to help you snag the best value.
What Is NBN 500?
NBN 500 is the highest-speed tier available for most homes, offering:
– Download speeds: Up to 500Mbps (ideal for 4K streaming, gaming, and large file transfers)
– Upload speeds: Typically 50Mbps (higher with select providers)
Best for: Households with heavy internet use, remote workers, or smart homes with 10+ connected devices.
NBN 500 Plan Prices: 2024 Comparison
We compared unlimited-data plans from major providers (prices accurate as of July 2024):
| Provider | Monthly Cost | Promo Period | Ongoing Price | Key Features |
|———-|————–|————–|————–|————–|
| Superloop | $109 | 6 months | $129 | No lock-in contract |
| Aussie Broadband | $129 | None | $129 | No setup fees |
| Optus | $135 | None | $135 | Free modem + mobile discounts |
| Telstra | $140 | None | $140 | Includes Binge/Kayo subscriptions |
| TPG | $119.99 | 6 months | $149.99 | Budget intro rate |
Key Insight: Prices range from $109 to $140/month, but watch for post-promo hikes (e.g., TPG jumps $30/month after 6 months).
4 Tips to Avoid Overpaying
- Skip the “Cheap” Traps
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Providers like TPG and Superloop offer intro discounts, but the ongoing cost matters more.
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Check Hardware Compatibility
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Older modems or devices may bottleneck your speed. Look for Wi-Fi 6 routers for full 500Mbps performance.
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Bundles Aren’t Always Better
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Telstra’s free Binge subscription sounds great, but if you don’t use it, you’re paying $10+/month extra for nothing.
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Prioritise Reliability
- Aussie Broadband and Superloop rank highest for low congestion, while Optus/Telstra may slow during peak hours.
Do You Even Need NBN 500?
Before upgrading, ask:
– How many users/devices? NBN 100 (100Mbps) suits most families.
– What’s your connection type? FTTP and HFC deliver the best 500Mbps performance; FTTN may struggle.
– Usage habits: If you’re just browsing and streaming, NBN 250 is likely enough.
Fair Price Benchmark
A reasonable ongoing price for unlimited NBN 500 is $110–$130/month.
Top Picks:
– Best Budget: Superloop ($109 promo → $129)
– Best No-Contract: Aussie Broadband ($129 flat)
– Best Bundles: Optus ($135 with free modem)
Final Advice
NBN 500 is a luxury, not a necessity. Compare long-term costs, not just promo rates, and ensure your home can actually use the speed.
Got questions? Drop them below!
(Prices may change. Always verify deals before signing up.)
