Answers to NBN Transition FAQs

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Since May of last year, NBN Co has been making announcements of deadlines in areas where ageing copper phone networks will be disconnected for good to make way for the move to the NBN. This has brought forth many enquiries from residents, and this article contains the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions in order to address those concerns.
FAQ 1
Why does NBN Co have to disconnect my old telephone line?
NBN Co’s fibre plans do away with ageing copper phone lines as it is no longer necessary in a fibre NBN connection. It was always part of the company’s highly-publicised plan to disconnect copper lines, giving residents 18 months to make the move to the network after NBN services become active in their area, before the disconnection.
FAQ 2
When is the best time to move from copper to NBN fibre for me not to lose my service?
The earlier the better – this is to prevent your phone or internet service from getting disrupted. Note that moving to the NBN means you should have chosen your preferred retail service provider beforehand.
FAQ 3
Will all NBN customers have their copper telephone lines disconnected?
No. Those who are in remote and regional areas will be using NBN Fixed Wireless and Satellite, so they get to keep their copper-based phone service. It is only in areas where customers will be using NBN fibre services that copper disconnection will take place.
FAQ 4
Will my telephone still be operational after the copper disconnection?
No. Since your copper line will be disconnected, the telephone service provided by it will no longer work. An NBN fibre connection will get you connected again through NBN Co’s supplied Network Termination Device that has a UNI-V port where your telephone handsets will be plugged into. You may choose this as a phone-only service from your preferred NBN service provider that offers it, or you may opt for a VoIP broadband-powered telephone service.
FAQ 5
How much will NBN-serviced telephone calls cost?
The cost will depend on the NBN retail service provider as well as the NBN plan you choose. If you don’t use the Internet, you may opt for an NBN voice-only service, but if you use the telephone AND the Internet, you will need an NBN service for both. The second option will give you Internet access and voice call services.
FAQ 6
Will I be required to buy new equipment to use the NBN?
Not necessarily. The basic equipment needed to access the NBN will be provided and installed by NBN Co for free. This includes a connection box outside, and a Network Termination Device inside your house. Still, if you are thinking of buying new routers or telephone devices, it would be best to consult with your chosen NBN retail service provider first to make sure it will be compatible with the NBN.
FAQ 7
Are there additional new wiring requirements for the house?
It depends. Mostly, no new internal wiring is required for you to use the NBN at home. Your cordless handsets will still work, and any WiFi-enabled routers will provide wireless networking to give you Internet access on your different devices. Should you need to have additional internal wired sockets for the telephone, or for your Internet at home, you can get those extras provided you get a registered cabler and have them connected to the NBN Connection Box. Note that this comes with additional costs.
Do you have other NBN-related questions you need answers to? Sound off in the comments section below or get in touch with us to let us know how we can help.