Telstra Internet: Review & Plans

Telstra is the largest internet provider in Australia, but does that mean you’re getting the best value for money? The telco giant offers a wide range of home internet options including NBN connections, plans using a combination of ADSL and cable connections, and mobile broadband options including 5G broadband. Of course, the plans you can sign up to all depends on the location of your home and what is available in your area, not to mention your personal preference and internet needs.

There are several plan types available, all of which can be purchased as broadband-only (and often bundled with a home phone at no extra cost) or with your choice of entertainment packages and other add-ons. There are various entertainment bundles to choose from, including bundles with streaming services, Foxtel TV packages, plans bundled with Telstra TV and even the option to add on an Xbox, Nintendo or PlayStation package. But how do Telstra’s internet plans compare to its rivals when it comes to price and features? In this review, we’ll cover a range of Telstra internet plans and general information to help you decide whether Telstra is the right internet provider for you.

Which Telstra internet plans can I sign up to?

Telstra has a relatively simplified selection of internet plans, with plans available across a range of connections. You can pick up Telstra internet plans on the following options:

• NBN
• Home wireless broadband (5G only)
• Mobile broadband
• Satellite (powered by Starlink)

Many older connections, such as ADSL and Cable plans may no longer be available for new customers. There are also two wireless broadband categories — home wireless and mobile broadband — and it’s worth noting that Telstra only offers its home wireless internet as 5G home internet. Of course what types of plans and connections you can sign up for at your home largely depend on what is available in your area, and what your home internet needs are.

The cost of Telstra internet for the home differs between plans, depending on a range of factors including your connection, the speed tier you choose (if you’re on NBN) and how much data is included on the plan. For example, mobile broadband plans are typically much cheaper than a fixed home internet connection, however the data inclusions are usually quite small.

How fast are Telstra’s internet plans?

The speed of your home internet will depend on a range of factors, including what type of internet you’re using. Telstra’s NBN plans for example, can theoretically reach up to 1Gbps, while its 5G plans can reach up to 20Gbps, however actual speeds you experience may differ. Here’s a quick look at the potential speeds you can reach on Telstra’s different home internet options:

• Telstra’s NBN plans start at 25Mbps and go up to 1000Mbps, however actual speeds experienced can differ
• 5G can reach speeds up to 20Gbps — that’s 200 times faster than the 100Mbps NBN speed tier

If you live in an area with access to the NBN, Telstra currently offers multiple NBN speed tiers – 25Mbps, 50Mbps, 100Mbps, 250Mbps and 1000Mbps. Speeds of NBN 100 and above are more likely to suit households with four or more people, and is ideal if you do a lot of high-quality video streaming, gaming or data-heavy work.

Telstra made major upgrades to its network in mid-2020 that it claims boost the speed of most NBN connections by around 15%. If you’re on a qualifying connection, you should now see typical speeds, even during peak evening times, close or equal to the maximum possible speed available on your plan for NBN 25, NBN 50, NBN 100 and NBN250.

Telstra’s range of broadband plans often come with several perks, so let’s dive in with more detail to see how far your money goes.

Telstra NBN plans

Telstra has quite a few simplified NBN plans up its sleeve, with a variety of data options, contract lengths and call packs available.

• The most commonly available speed tiers are NBN 25, NBN 50 and NBN 100 speeds, with unlimited data included on all plans.
• Premium (NBN 100) speeds are mostly available to homes with FTTP, FTTC or HFC NBN connections, with some FTTN and FTTB homes also eligible.
• Superfast (NBN 250) and Ultrafast (NBN 1000) plans are only available to FTTP and selected HFC homes.
• You may need to pay upfront fees for installation and your modem.

The below table features selected published Telstra NBN plans from Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance. Use our comparison tool to see plans from a wider range of providers.

Telstra mobile broadband and home wireless broadband plans

Home wireless and mobile broadband plans are increasing in popularity, with the average cost of 4G data decreasing over time and the need for flexibility increasing. While 5G is the big star when it comes to wireless internet plans, a 4G wireless broadband option can be a good option for some.

Telstra has simplified its mobile broadband range, separating your data plan from your modem of choice. If you don’t already have a modem, you’ll simply choose from one of the Telstra modems on offer, decide whether you want your repayments to run over 12, 24 or 36 months or to buy outright, and then add on a data plan. All plans offered are payable upfront via AutoPay.

While those data inclusions may seem limiting, especially for home use, these plans have no excess data charges — like Telstra’s postpaid phone plans, you can keep using data but at the capped speed of 1.5Mbps.

Telstra 5G home internet plans

Telstra now offers 5G home internet plans to customers, which include one terabyte of data (1,000GB). These plans come with no lock-in contract and an included 5G modem. While 5G-speed data isn’t unlimited, if you do exceed your full-speed gigabyte allowance you’ll have access to data at speeds of 25Mbps until your billing cycle resets.

Unlike mobile broadband, Telstra 5G home internet is designed to be used at a single home or business address, and isn’t portable — your modem may be geo-locked to your address. However, the plug-and-play modem makes setup easy (and is included free when you stay connected for 24 months), and also offers 4G network backup.

Telstra 5G Home Internet Plans

The following table shows a selection of published Telstra 5G internet plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest. This is a selection of products with links to referral partners.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	5G Home Internet 5G speeds Speeds capped at 25Mbps after 1TB allowance exceeded Includes Telstra 5G Home Modem ($0 when you stay connected for 24 months) min. cost $85 over one month	1TBMax Data**/billing period	$85Advertised Cost^^/billing period
View all NBN plans listed on Canstar Blue			**^^View important information

Telstra 5G mobile broadband plans

If you’re in an area connected to the Telstra 5G network, you can now pick up a 5G mobile broadband plan. You’ll need a compatible 5G dongle or hotspot, such as the Telstra 5G Hotspot — which can be paid off over 12, 24 or 36 months (or outright) — to bundle it with a mobile broadband plan, which is an additional monthly cost.

Telstra Mobile Broadband Plans

The following table shows a selection of published Telstra mobile broadband plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest. This is a selection of products with links to referral partners.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	Small SIM only data plan – pay upfront via AutoPay No excess data charges in Australia 5G access (uncapped speeds) Share your data with up to 20 plans across your account min. cost $25 over one month	30GBMax Data**/billing period	$25Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	Medium SIM only data plan – pay upfront via AutoPay No excess data charges in Australia 5G access (uncapped speeds) Share your data with up to 20 plans across your account min. cost $58 over one month	75GBMax Data**/billing period	$58Advertised Cost^^/billing period
View all NBN plans listed on Canstar Blue			**^^View important information

Prepaid mobile broadband plans

Telstra’s prepaid mobile broadband lets you buy one of several devices and recharge it with your choice of several prepaid data plans. There are several SIM options, or you can add on the SIM Kit and then choose your recharge amount. SIM-only mobile broadband plans are a way of getting Telstra internet plans for iPads and other mobile devices.

If you don’t have a compatible device, there are several prepaid mobile broadband devices available to purchase, but you will have to buy your device outright. Otherwise, these SIM cards can be used in a mobile phone or other portable device with a SIM card slot, like an iPad or tablet.

Telstra satellite internet plans

Telstra is currently the only telco to offer Starlink satellite internet plans. While Starlink can be purchased direct, if you opt for a Telstra satellite internet plan powered by Starlink, the plans are slightly cheaper than what you’ll pay for a plan direct from Starlink. However, like Starlink, you’ll need to buy your equiptment upfront.

Telstra’s features and extras

Telstra could be described as a ‘full service’ telco, meaning it offers a whole lot more than just broadband. Here’s what you can expect with Telstra:

• Entertainment: Customers can add Foxtel and Foxtel Now packages, as well as Telstra TV Box Office, Fetch, Disney+, Kayo Sports, BINGE, Spotify and even consoles like Xbox, PlayStation and Nintendo to their plans.
• Call packs: Telstra offers home phone for no extra cost on internet plans, with unlimited calls to Australian mobiles and landlines included. Even if you don’t need a home phone, you’re not charged any extra for this inclusion.
• Speeds: If you’re looking at NBN, you can choose from three base NBN speed tiers when signing up for a Telstra NBN plan, with the option to add on one of the two extra-fast speed tiers when you sign up to the premium speed plans.
• Modem: Modems may be included on select plans, or added on for additional cost. If you cancel your month-to-month plan before 24 months, you may be required to pay off the modem. Telstra also offers a smart modem with 4G backup, so you’ll still have internet access through the mobile network even if your fixed connection is down.
• Telstra Plus rewards: Telstra customers are eligible to join Telstra Plus rewards at no extra ongoing cost. You earn points every time you make an eligible payment, and those points can be redeemed for discounts on devices, accessories and more through the Rewards store. Members also enjoy benefits likes discounted movie and sports tickets and event pre-sales.

As you can see, Telstra does offer more than just internet plans, and while plan prices might be on the higher end compared to other internet providers, you might find that the additional extras available from Telstra could be enough included value for the price.

If you’re wondering what other features Telstra has to offer for NBN plans, the below table includes what you’ll be able to access when signing up to a Telstra NBN plan for your home internet.

Telstra Network Coverage

Telstra prides itself on being the ‘network without equal’ and states that the NBN is rolling out fibre coverage to 93% of Australians. The remaining 7% will be covered by fixed wireless and SkyMuster satellite technologies. Telstra has a coverage map and address checker on its website to let customers know what type of NBN is coming to their area, and when.

Current NBN rollout covers many capital cities, as well as major regional hubs along the eastern seaboard, as pictured.

Telstra NBN Plans

As most Aussie homes are now connected to the NBN, most customers looking for an internet plan through Telstra will most likely find a NBN plan to suit their needs. Telstra offers plans suitable for smaller households that may not be heavy internet users, along with plans for larger households that need faster internet speeds and unlimited data. Telstra NBN plans are also available with a range of entertainment add-ons available.

The following table features published Telstra NBN plans from Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance. Use our NBN comparison tool to see plans from a wider range of providers. These are products which may contain links to a referral partner.

Telstra Customer Service & Support

As Australia’s largest telco, you would rightfully expect Telstra to have a comprehensive customer service system.

• There are many FAQ documents on its website, with 24/7 chat functions if needed.
• Telstra has a multilingual customer service team so you’re covered if you want to speak in your native tongue.
• Telstra customer service number is 13 22 00.

Telstra has a variety of customer support functions, as well as a range of bricks and mortar stores throughout Australia; often it can be easier just to pop into one and chat to a real person. It’s all up to you.

Telstra Internet FAQ

Still have some questions about Telstra internet? Take a look at the below FAQs to see if your question is answered, otherwise it’s worth checking out the Telstra website for more information.

Does Telstra have unlimited data?

Telstra only offers unlimited data on its fixed home internet connections (NBN, ADSL and Cable). Mobile broadband plans include no excess data charges, which means you can keep using your internet but at the capped speed of 1.5Mbps.

How much does Telstra internet cost?

This does depend on the plan you choose. Telstra is on the more expensive end of the spectrum when it comes to internet plans, although Telstra does tend to have extras and added value that could be worth the price.

Can I get Telstra internet at my home?

If you have an NBN connection to your home, it’s likely you’ll have access to Telstra internet at your home. Access to ADSL, Cable and even home wireless options, does depend on where you live and if your home has access. Even home wireless and mobile broadband requires you to be close to a Telstra mobile tower. The best way to find out what Telstra internet services you have at your home, is to check your address on the Telstra website.

Is Telstra internet good for gaming?

Telstra offers the fastest NBN speed tiers available — NBN 100, 250 and 1000, which are great if you want a fast online gaming experience. Even NBN 50 is adequate for online gaming. If you want an even better gaming experience, Telstra offers the ‘Game Optimiser’ tool, which costs an additional fee per month (on NBN 50 and NBN 100 plans). The Game Optimiser prioritises online gaming traffic, allows you to choose your preferred game server region, and allows you to control home network use.

My Telstra internet isn’t working

If your home internet is down, you might want to try restarting your modem/router. Simply turn it off and wait a minute or so, then turn it back on and see whether you regain access. Sometimes you may also need to unplug your modem/router from the power point and leave it unplugged for around 10 minutes, then turn the power back on and the modem/router.

If these simple troubleshooting options don’t work and you’re still without coverage, you may need to check the NBN Co website to see if there is an NBN outage in your area, or get in touch with Telstra’s customer support to find out if there is anything wrong with your connection.

How does Telstra internet compare to other providers?

Telstra offers much more than just broadband, thanks to its range of entertainment extras and add-ons. Other telcos that offer unlimited data, entertainment and home phone call packs include:

• iiNet
• Internode
• Dodo
• iPrimus
• Foxtel
• Optus
• Aussie Broadband

While most — barring Foxtel — do not include Foxtel entertainment, there is often some form of entertainment bundled in, usually in the name of Fetch TV. It all depends on what you’re after here.

Is Telstra a good internet provider?

Telstra is generally one of the most expensive internet service providers, however, the trade-off is that with Telstra you’ll get extras like:

• Comprehensive 24/7 customer service and physical stores
• Usually reliable and comprehensive network coverage
• Entertainment packs including Telstra TV, Foxtel and Xbox on more expensive plans
• Other value-add perks like 4G backup on Telstra’s smart modem
• 5G broadband plans with Australia’s largest 5G network

While prices are a bit steeper than others, Telstra is still a very strong choice when you’re shopping for a new internet plan, and the extras that provide a bit more value to its plans may be worth the money. Other providers offer cheaper plans, but if you want more than just internet, Telstra might suit your needs.

When it comes to what customers think about their Telstra NBN plan, Telstra was rated 3 out of a possible 5 stars for overall customer satisfaction in Canstar Blue’s annual Most Satisfied Customers for NBN Providers rating. Customers rated Telstra 3 stars for both customer service and value for money, however the provider was rated 4 stars for speed and reliability, ease of setup and bill and cost clarity. Other NBN providers were rated higher, however everyone’s experience with their NBN provider is different.

Overall, it comes down to what you think will be the best internet plan for your needs. Telstra does indeed offer more options, and if you’re still waiting for your home to be connected to the NBN, Telstra is one of the few providers still offering alternative fixed-line internet connections. It also has a comprehensive range of wireless internet plans that could suit your needs if you’re looking for an alternative to an NBN plan.

But before you jump in, it’s worth comparing what internet plans around out there from other providers to help you find an option that will suit your needs and budget.

Other articles worth reading

• The Cheapest NBN Plans
• Australia’s Top NBN Plans
• NBN Speed Tiers Explained
• Checking If Your Router is NBN-Ready

About the author of this page

This page was written and is regularly updated by Canstar Blue’s Telco Editor, Tara Donnelly. Having spent over seven years writing for and editing telco comparison websites, she’s an expert in all things phone & internet, including NBN plans, wireless technology, the latest mobile devices and how to find the best deal for your family. She loves to highlight the next best deals, while also flagging the things you need to be aware of.

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What do customers think about Telstra NBN plans?

In 2020, Australians gave Telstra 3 out of 5 stars for Overall Customer Satisfaction in NBN plans.