Fixed Broadband
Fixed broadband is an internet service designed to connect a specific home, property or business, rather than a service intended to be used while you are on the move.
People living and working in rural, regional and remote Australia may have access to one or several fixed broadband networks and technologies. Finding out what is available at your specific address is the first step. From there, you can compare providers, plans, speeds, costs, equipment, reliability and other considerations to choose a service that suits your needs and budget.
Your right to access a fixed broadband service
Australia’s Universal Service Guarantee (USG) is intended to ensure that people across Australia have access to both broadband and voice services, regardless of where they live. For broadband, this is supported by the Statutory Infrastructure Provider (SIP) regime.
Every Premises in Australia is covered by a SIP. nbn is the default SIP, except in areas where another carrier or eligible telecommunications provider is responsible. For example, in some new developments, apartment complexes or areas serviced by an alternative fibre network, such as Opticomm.
SIPs are required, on reasonable request, to connect premises within their service area and supply eligible wholesale broadband services to retail providers. Where a fixed-line connection is not available, the SIP can meet its obligation using fixed wireless or satellite technology.
So even if nbn isn’t the network responsible for your premises, there should be another SIP responsible for delivering a fixed broadband service.
The USG doesn’t mean every premises can access every broadband technology or provider. The network and technology available will depend on your location.
How to find out what fixed broadband is available at your address
Fixed broadband services in Australia are delivered using a mix of fibre/fixed-line, fixed wireless, mobile wireless and satellite technologies. To make the options easier to navigate, BIRRR has grouped the fixed broadband services available into:
The networks and services available will depend on your location. Explore the options below to check what may be available at your address and learn how each technology works and how to get connected.
national broadband network (nbn)
Find out what nbn technology your address is mapped for, check for planned upgrades or changes, and learn more about the different technologies nbn uses to deliver fixed broadband.
➡️ Check nbn availability at your location
Learn More ➡️ Getting Connected to nbn
Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs)
Some rural and regional areas are serviced by Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs) that operate their own fixed wireless networks. Coverage is highly location-specific and may depend on having suitable line of sight to the provider’s network infrastructure.
Learn More ➡️ Getting Connected to a WISP
Starlink Satellite
Starlink is a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite service that provides broadband across much of Australia and requires a clear view of the sky. Starlink broadband plans are available directly from Starlink or through Telstra, which resells services using the Starlink network.
➡️ Check Starlink Availability at Your Address
Learn More ➡️ Getting Connected to Starlink Broadband
4G / 5G Home Broadband
Mobile networks can provide a fixed home broadband service via the 4G or 5G networks, availability can vary significantly between carriers and locations and may depend on coverage and network capacity.
Learn More ➡️ Getting Connected to 4G / 5G Home Broadband
Alternate Fibre Networks
nbn isn’t the only fibre network in Australia. Some premises may be serviced by an alternative fibre provider, particularly in new developments, regional communities, business areas or where private companies have deployed networks.
In some locations, an alternative fibre network may also be the designated Statutory Infrastructure Provider.
Learn More ➡️ Alternative Fibre Networks
Amazon LEO
Amazon Leo is another Low Earth Orbit satellite broadband network being rolled out in Australia in the near future.
Learn More ➡️ Information on Amazon Leo
Which Fixed Broadband Service is Right for you?
Having access to a technology doesn’t necessarily mean it will be the best option for your household or business. When comparing broadband services, consider:
Availability • Speed • Reliability • Cost • Data • Equipment • Installation • Power requirements • Customer support • Contract length and add ons • choice of Provider • Network resilience and Redundancy
➡️ Compare Fixed Broadband Options
Disclaimer: BIRRR is an independent, volunteer-run and technology-agnostic organisation. Information on this page is provided as a general guide to help consumers understand the fixed broadband options that may be available to them. Broadband availability, coverage, plans, pricing, speeds, equipment and service conditions can change and may vary significantly by location. Always check your specific address and confirm current information directly with the network operator or service provider before ordering or changing a service.
The inclusion of a provider, network or technology does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by BIRRR. Consumers should consider their individual needs, budget, location, reliability and redundancy requirements when choosing a service. Information updated: September 2026