How to compare internet plans beyond the introductory price

Choose the service you actually need

Start with your address, connection type, household usage and whether upload speed matters for work or study. A low advertised price is not useful if the service does not meet those needs. Read the provider’s Critical Information Summary and relevant broadband information before comparing costs.

Compare the same number of months

Here is a fictional 24-month example. Plan A charges $65 for six months, then $85 for 18 months, plus $100 upfront: $2,020 altogether. Plan B charges $79 for all 24 months with no separate fee: $1,896. Plan B is $124 lower on these entered costs, even though Plan A has the cheaper headline price.

Make the hidden questions visible

Check modem costs, delivery, setup, any requirement to return equipment, contract length and exit charges. Confirm whether the price includes GST and whether an advertised discount depends on another service. Unknown charges should remain questions, rather than becoming zero in your comparison.

A cost result does not compare reliability

Check the provider’s typical evening-speed information and what affects performance at your address. Also compare support, fault handling and service limitations. A cost calculator cannot verify future speed or decide which connection will suit your household.

Keep evidence before switching

Save the offer and the date you checked it. Ask how the change will affect your existing service and avoid assuming a new order cancels every old charge. Enter the confirmed introductory, ongoing and upfront amounts in the comparison tool, then revisit the result if the terms change.

Official references

General information and fictional examples; independent professional review has not been completed.

Sources checked 22–23 October 2026. Examples and worksheets are our own illustrations.

• ACMA: choosing a provider ↗
• ACCC: broadband speeds ↗

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