While the rollout of the nbn network has been a boon for Australian internet speeds, it also has many wondering what effect it will have on their home phone line. Will I still be able to make calls on my landline phone? Do I need to switch to a new home phone service? Can I still keep my existing phone number? In this blog, we answer all this and more.

Why would the nbn affect my home phone line?

At its heart, the nbn operates by replacing Australia’s existing copper wire network (that has traditionally been used for landline calls and alarm systems) with a new and improved fibre optic cable system. Though this digital transformation has provided Aussies with a superior internet connection, over and above previous ADSL internet services, it also means that your landline services may be affected.

How will the nbn affect my home phone line?

Depending on which type of nbn technology you use, you can expect one of two things to happen to your landline:

FTTC, FTTB, FTTP, FTTN and HFC

If your area relies on a fixed-line nbn technology, you can expect your existing (ADSL) home phone and internet services to be completely disconnected around 18 months after your nbn service becomes available. But rest assured, this won’t happen out of the blue. NBN Co will keep you informed. You can even check your cut-off date on the nbn website.

nbn Fixed Wireless and Sky Muster Satellite 

If you live in an area serviced by nbn wireless or satellite technology you can expect your ADSL home phone and internet services to be left intact indefinitely, leaving you to continue using your existing services without interruption.

Can I get a home phone service on the nbn?

For those who want to keep the residential convenience of a home phone, the good news is you still can. It’s just a matter of upgrading to a service that runs over the nbn’s broadband networks, and not the traditional landline network.

VoIP Services 

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is nbn’s answer to the old-school home phone line. Instead of relying on an analog landline, VoIP offers a digital solution, using your broadband internet connection to allow you to make home phone calls. Available across all fixed-line nbn technologies, VoIP is an excellent choice for Aussies who still want to make voice calls from the comfort of their own home. 

How do I set up VoIP?

There isn’t too much of a technical side to setting up a new VoIP phone line, provided you have the right equipment. It’s a matter of plugging your corded or cordless handset into your VoIP-enabled modem, or analogue telephone adapter (ATA) device and entering the required credentials (supplied by your ISP) into the modem. You’ll just need to make sure the modem you are using is compatible – keep in mind that most of the time, using equipment from a previous ISP may not work.

Can I keep my existing phone number?

In most cases, you should be able to port your existing home phone number to your new nbn service, so long as you sign up before your old landline service is switched off. Just make sure that you inform your service provider of your preference.

How do I get an nbn phone line service?

With many Aussie telcos already bundling nbn plans with a VoIP service, making the switch from landline to a new nbn home phone line service couldn’t be easier. Simply get in touch with an internet service provider who offers a VoIP service that fits your budget. 

Sign up with MATE!

Looking to make the switch to an nbn-based home phone line service? MATE has got you covered! 

Choose from a range of unlimited data nbn home internet plans with a bundled VoIP home phone service!

Pick the nbn speed tier that’s right for you, from our G’Day nbn 12/1 plan up to our You Beaut nbn 250/25 plan! All plans come with: 

• Unlimited data
• No contracts
• No plan change fees
• 1-month money back guarantee
• Award-winning Aussie Support

Make the switch today!