No, you do not need an active phone line to get an internet service on the nbn™.
Unlike ADSL, the nbn™ does not require you to have an active landline. Most ADSL customers only have a phone line so they can have an internet connection. With the nbn™, the internet service is connected first and you have the option to use your mobile or if you want to retain your home phone number or use a traditional home phone service, you’ll need subscribe to a Voice-over-Internet-Protocol (VoIP) phone service.
What do most nbn™ customers do for a phone service?
Most nbn™ customers choose to have an internet only nbn™ service and use their mobile for their phone service.
On the nbn™, you can also use Voice over IP (VoIP) programs or apps like Skype, Apple’s FaceTime (through Macs, iPads, iPhone and iWatch), Google Hangouts, Vonage and many more. Many VoIP service are free when you call another VoIP services using the internet.
To keep things simple, Australia Broadband recommends you use the nbn™ for internet only, choose a mobile provider with unlimited calls and use Skype to make international calls to friends and family for free.
Can Australia Broadband provide a phone service?
If you want to retain your existing phone number or use a home phone service, Australia Broadband can provide you a VoIP service. It works just like your normal landline, and we can even transfer your current phone number. To sign up for Australia Broadband VoIP, you’ll need a Australia Broadband NBN subscription. You’ll also need a nbn compatible Wi-Fi modem from Australia Broadband so we can ensure you have a reliable and quality VoIP connection.
Our VoIP Plans start at only $10 a month with all local and national calls completely free. You’ll also get great call rates to mobiles and international numbers.
Can I use my own BYO modem on Australia Broadband VoiP?
Yes, you can use your own BYO modem on Australia Broadband VoIP. You’ll need an nbn compatible modem to connect to the nbn. Your modem also must be VoIP capable.
To keep things simple, we recommend you purchase an nbn compatible Wi-Fi modem from Australia Broadband. All modem purchased from Australia Broadband are VoIP capable, fully supported, include a 12-month manufacture warranty and are auto-configured with your Australia Broadband NBN and VoIP setting to allow you to plug and play.
If you want to use your own nbn™ and VoIP compatible modem with Australia Broadband VoIP, you will need to sign up online and subscribe to a Australia Broadband NBN internet only plan. Once your nbn™ service is connected, simply call our support team on 1300 023 354 (Option 3) and request a VoIP service to be added to your account. Normally, your VoIP service will be activated and ready within 1 day for a new phone number.
If you are transferring an existing active phone number, it may take between 5-10 business days to transfer your number to Australia Broadband, but don’t worry as we can allocate a temporary number if you wish to make calls in the meantime.
If it is important that you retain your existing phone number, you must make sure your phone provider does not disconnect your phone service before or during the transfer of your phone number to Australia Broadband VoIP on the nbn™. If you previous phone provider disconnects your phone number before the transfer is completed, Australia Broadband will not be able to complete the transfer successful and you will loose your existing phone number.
Do I have to pay phone line rental on my nbn™ plan?
No, as you do not need an active phone line to get an internet service on the nbn™, you do not have to pay any line rental.