Published May 26, 2026
Whether renting or buying, we get that moving into a new home is stressful. Worse still is collapsing on the new sofa you bought off Facebook Marketplace, only to realise you haven’t got internet. Lucky for you, sorting out your internet when moving is easy to do and can be one of the first things you tick off your to-do list. It is recommended organising your internet earlier, because it can take up to 2 to 4 weeks if you need an installation appointment.
If you’re building a new or off-the-plan home, you’ll need to ask the developer if they’re building with the NBN in mind. From there, follow either the NBN or Opticomm guide for new builds and make sure your builders are aware of the requirements for each network. This is a great time to make sure you get the connection type you think you’ll need and even consider futureproofing with the rise of smart, connected devices.
When you’re close to deciding your connection type, you’ll also need to know your move in date before ordering a new plan. This is so your retail service provider (RSP) knows what day to turn your connection on.
Which NBN Speed Tier Should You Choose?
Moving house can also be a good opportunity to review whether your current internet speed still suits your household needs. Here’s a simple guide to common NBN speed tiers and what they’re best suited for.
| Speed Tier | Best For | Maximum Speeds |
|---|---|---|
| NBN 12 | Lone, low internet users | 12Mbps |
| NBN 25 | Budget pick for 1–2 people | 25Mbps |
| NBN 50 | All-rounder for small households of 2–4 people | 50Mbps |
| NBN 100 | Great for working from home and larger households | 100Mbps |
| NBN 250 | Faster speeds for busy households and multiple users | 250Mbps |
| NBN 500 | Seamless internet experience when everyone is online | 500Mbps |
| NBN 750 | Even faster speeds for simultaneous streaming and gaming | 750Mbps |
| NBN 1000 | Ultra-fast speeds for heavy internet users | 1000Mbps |
| NBN 2000 | The fastest speeds currently available for premium users | 2000Mbps |
Note: Speed tiers above NBN 100 are generally only available at premises with FTTP and HFC connection types.
Getting the right hardware
Once you’ve confirmed your new connection type, it’s a good time to check whether you’ve got the right modem or router. If the connection type is the same as your current property, you’re in luck – you shouldn’t need to buy a different device when moving.
Properties that have Fibre to the Node or Building (FTTN/B) connection will need a modem that uses VDSL2 technology. Don’t fret though – we’ve got a guide here for you to figure out what type of modem or router (or both) you need for your connection type.
As a rule of thumb, if your new house has an NBN box mounted to a wall or sitting inside, then a router that has a WAN port is all you need to get connected. Fear not former FTTN/B folk – if you’ve already got a VDSL2 modem with a WAN port, you can use this too! This is for technology types:
Fibre to the Premises (FTTP)
Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC)
Fibre to the Curb (FTTC)
Fixed Wireless
Relocating your service
If you’re an Aussie customer, relocating your internet service is easy! You can go onto your provider’s app or online portal and scroll down until you see the ‘Relocate Service’ button. From there, it’s a case of entering your new address, selecting your preferred plan and setting the earliest date you want to be connected. You can also choose when you’re available for an NBN technician to visit your property, if necessary.
If you’ve decided to switch RSPs, remember to call up your old provider and cancel your service with them! This is so you’re not double billed and we recommend doing this only when your new service is online to minimise downtime.
If you need a crossover period, such as you need your internet at two properties simultaneously for a bit, you should give our Sales team a call, so we can organise it for you.
Setting it all up
The removalist van has left, you’ve shifted your plants into position and you’re about to put the final touches on your move plugging in your internet!
The removalist van has left, you’ve shifted your plants into position and you’re about to put the final touches on your move – plugging in your internet!
If at any point throughout your installation or rental period you need support, our 100% Aussie-based utility partners are ready to help. Compare Today, a trusted broadband comparison broker in Australia, makes transferring your internet simple and stress-free.
FAQs
How early should I organise internet before moving house?
It’s best to arrange your internet connection at least 2 to 4 weeks before moving, especially if installation is required.
Can I transfer my existing internet plan to a new address?
In many cases, yes. Your provider can usually relocate your existing service if the new property supports the same connection type.
Will I need a new modem when moving house?
Not always. If your new property uses the same connection technology, your current modem or router may still work.
Can I keep internet at both properties temporarily?
Some providers offer a crossover period so you can use internet at both addresses during your move.
What should I do before cancelling my old internet service?
Wait until your new connection is active before cancelling your previous service to avoid downtime.
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