No one likes to be locked into a service. What if you have to move? What if it just plain sucks? And another good question, what would it cost if you do have to leave suddenly?
When you consider how fickle internet plans can be, opting for a no-contract plan is the safest choice. Luckily, no lock-in contract NBN plans are more prominent than their contracted counterparts these days. Practically every NBN provider now offers contract-free plans but some do have catches.
The benefits of contract-free NBN plans

- No obligation to stay with a provider if they under-perform
- Cheaper in the long run
- Save on set-up fees and modem costs
Having the freedom to leave a provider whenever you want doesn’t really have any downsides; ultimately it gives power back to the customer. If you’re not happy with the service you're getting, you can simply switch internet providers. If you find a cheaper internet plan, you can say goodbye. If your current telco doesn’t troubleshoot well enough, then you have the freedom to find someone who does. If anything, no-contract NBN plans force telcos to perform better to encourage you to stay longer.
Cheap contract-free NBN plans
In the spirit of saving money, below are the cheapest contract-free NBN plans available in our database from NBN 25 all the way through to NBN 250. Each plan below comes with no set-up fees and lets you bring your own modem.
We highly recommend switching your provider every six months.
Providers tend to offer great discounts for the first six months you’re with them but after that pricing is relatively similar across the board. To get the best speed for your dollar you should be jumping between these deals as they turn up. Contract-free NBN plans give you the freedom to do this so you won’t get stung with any cancellation fees. But you will need to bring your own modem each time (and double-check that it's compatible).
While switching internet providers used to be a tedious task, switching can sometimes take just up to an hour. So don't let the fear of change stop you from saving money!
Are Optus NBN plans contract-free?
Optus is one of many providers who has also gone down the contract-free route but is still hanging onto its roots. While all of Optus’ NBN plans come contract-free, you are still liable to pay out your modem, and potentially WiFi Booster costs, if you leave before 36 months is up.
Each Optus plan comes with the Optus Ultra WiFi Modem (RRP of $306) included for free, but technically Optus covers a payment of $8.50 per month over the 36 months you're connected. If you leave before that you’ll need to pay $8.50 multiplied by the months remaining in the term. If you pick an Optus plan with a WiFi Booster (RRP $216), you’ll also technically be paying that off at an extra $6 per month. Yet again if you jet before 36 months you’ll be responsible for the remaining cost of $6 multiplied by the months left.
Optus’ modem also might not work with other NBN providers, meaning you may not be able to reconfigure it if you switch providers after your 36 months are up or pay it out. In addition, the Optus NBN modem can't be used for phone calls with other NBN providers, and 4G backup will not work if you leave Optus.
Are TPG NBN plans contract-free?
TPG has a few different contract-free options. If you choose to bring along your own modem you can actually get a $100 modem credit applied to your account. You'll need to purchase the modem from an Australian retailer within 30 days (before or after) of your TPG NBN application and fill in the rebate form within 30 days after signing up.
If you already have an existing modem that's compatible you can still use that you just won't be eligible for the credit if it was purchased outside of the 30 day window. If you opt for a no lock-in contract and need a modem you can get one from TPG for $99.95 plus a $10 delivery fee.
Are Telstra NBN plans contract-free?
All Telstra NBN plans are technically contract-free, but before you get too excited there is a catch. Telstra’s latest smart modem is bundled with every one of the provider’s new NBN plan sign-ups.
If you stay with the telco for 24 months you won’t pay a cent for it. However, if you decide to leave before those 24 months are up, you’ll either need to return it to the provider or pay a hefty $200 non-return fee to keep the modem.
The real kicker is Telstra’s modem is locked and won't necessarily work with another provider. 4G backup and calling certainly won't so even after that so you may need a new modem anyway.
Contract-free NBN plan FAQs
Can I get WiFi without a contract?
Yes, you can get WiFi/an NBN plan without having to lock yourself into a contract. There are plenty of internet providers offering contract-free plans, simply check the Ts and Cs of the one you wish to sign up for or check if the website mentions 'no lock-in contracts' across the board.
What other ways could I be 'locked' into a no-contract NBN plan?
Aside from being convinced into staying with a specific NBN plan through modem repayments, you could also be subject to set-up fees, or you may be sweet-talked into staying for perks like reward points, bundling discounts for electricity, gas or mobile or discounted access to streaming services.
Related Articles
Sign up for telco news, money-saving deals and more.
Internet Plans by State
- Internet Plans in ACT
- Internet Plans in NSW
- Internet Plans in NT
- Internet Plans in QLD
- Internet Plans in SA
- Internet Plans in TAS
- Internet Plans in VIC
- Internet Plans in WA