At Remitly, we know that staying connected is one of the top priorities for immigrants living abroad. But if you have recently moved to Australia, you’ve probably already faced the most common complaint: many Aussies feel that the internet connection is much slower than the rest of the world.
In this post, we’ll provide a clear, straightforward answer to the question: how fast is the internet in Australia? Just as importantly, what does this mean for you? We’ll break down complex topics like download speeds, connection types, and non-technical ways to check your internet speed. We’ll also put everything into perspective, so you can see how internet speeds in Australia compare with those in the rest of the world.
So, how fast is Australia’s internet?
The good news is that internet speeds in Australia aren’t particularly slow, especially relative to some other countries in the region, but they aren’t very fast either. The country comes in at number 33 on Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index for mobile internet speed based on various stats:
- Download speed of approximately 129 Mbps (megabits per second)
- Average upload speed of about 12 Mbps
- Latency—or response rate—of 20 ms (milliseconds)
In terms of fixed broadband connections, Australia ranks 48th globally:
- Average download speeds of 135 Mbps
- Upload speeds of around 34 Mbps
- Latency rate of 9 ms
Generally, upload and download speeds measure the amount of data that can be transferred over the internet in one second. Higher numbers mean you have a better connection and can download content, stream videos, and open webpages faster.
A global snapshot
To give you an idea of what these numbers mean, let’s compare internet speed in Australia with other countries around the world.
You’ll find the fastest mobile internet connectivity in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), offering a download speed of approximately 653 Mbps.
Here are the average mobile download speeds in a few other counties:
- New Zealand: 128 Mbps
- United Kingdom: 70 Mbps
- Singapore: 186 Mbps
- United States: 171 Mbps
- South Korea: 231 Mbps
From the data, it’s clear Aussie connectivity lags slightly behind other developed nations like Singapore, South Korea, and the US. However, it isn’t too far behind, ensuring a comparable speeds with much of the world.
Factors affecting internet speeds in Australia
In Australia, these figures vary widely, which can affect your online experience. This variability is due to several factors, including:
- Outdated infrastructure, as most networks rely on copper wiring, which can be slower and less efficient than fibre networks.
- Network congestion for mobile, broadband, and Wi-Fi networks, especially during peak usage times.
- Large distances from network exchanges, partly due to Australia’s widely spaced cities and rugged landscapes, further slowing down internet speeds.
Besides this, the type of internet connection you use in your office or home will play a role in how fast you can navigate life online.
Understanding the NBN and how internet connectivity works
Australia’s National Broadband Network (NBN) is an open-data, government-owned network that provides high-speed internet access to homes and businesses nationwide. But to access the internet through the NBN, users have to contract with a retail internet service provider like Telstra, Dodo, Aussie Broadband, and much more.
Common NBN connection types
The NBN provides internet access through different technologies through a blended Multi-Technology Mix (MTM) approach. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Fibre to the Premises (FTTP)
This type of broadband connection uses fibre-optic cable to deliver the internet directly into a private home or business. FTTP connections are the fastest and most reliable.
- Fibre to the Curb (FTTC)
Sometimes referred to as “Fibre to the Cabinet,” this method uses fibre-optic cable to deliver internet to a street cabinet, then copper phone lines for the final connection to your home or office. FTTC connections are high-speed, thanks to the fibre being close to the ultimate destination.
- Fibre to the Node (FTTN)
The node refers to a central point in the neighbourhood that is connected to the internet via fibre-optic cables. From this point, homes and businesses receive internet connection through existing copper phone lines. FTTN is a common, but often slower, method of connecting to the internet.
- Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC)
HFC uses fibre-optic cables to bring an internet connection to a central point, where it is then delivered to individual homes and businesses using coaxial cables originally installed as cable TV infrastructure. HFC connections are generally pretty fast.
- Fixed Wireless & Satellite
If you live in a regional or remote area where fibre-optic networks aren’t possible, you’ll likely depend on a fixed wireless or satellite connection to connect to the NBN.
Fixed wireless networks operate through a local radio tower, while satellite connections rely on a satellite in orbit. These signals can be spottier, slower, or affected by unpredictable weather conditions.
Understanding your connection type can help you estimate the potential speed of your internet connection. Having some background knowledge about these different types of connections can also come in handy as you explore neighborhoods and properties to buy or rent as you settle in Australia.
What is a “good” internet speed in Australia?
Internet speed is typically measured by how much information can be transmitted in a certain amount of time. But we recognise that unless you’re a software engineer or other industry professional, not everyone will understand what the technical details mean. So, to put different internet speeds into context, let’s analyse different NBN plans and what they can be used for:
- 25 Mbps (NBN 25): This internet speed is ideal for one or two people and will support regular browsing, streaming one HD movie at a time, and checking emails.
- 50 Mbps (NBN 50): A popular choice because it meets the needs of small families or multiple users. It supports online gaming and streaming multiple HD videos at the same time.
- 100 Mbps (NBN 100): This higher-speed option is a great choice for larger households with heavy internet usage. It allows for 4K streaming, working from home, and large file downloads.
- 250+ Mbps (NBN Home Fast & Home Ultrafast): If you’re the type of person who likes to incorporate digital solutions into everyday life, opt for this plan, which is the fastest option. 250+ Mbps will support multiple heavy users, smart home integrations, and those seeking the absolute best online experience.
How to check your internet speed
Checking your internet speed is easier than you might think. Just follow these step-by-step instructions:
Step 1: Visit a reliable speed test website. We recommend Speedtest by Ookla or Fast.com.
Step 2: Click the “Go” or “Start” button.
Step 3: Wait for the test to finish.
Step 4: Review your results.
What the numbers mean
Your results will include different data points. To understand them, check out this brief description of the most important information you’ll receive from an internet speed test:
- Upload speed: The rate at which data is sent from your device to the internet.
- Download speed: The rate at which data is transferred from the internet to your device.
- Ping (or latency): A measure of your internet’s responsiveness based on the amount of time it takes for data to travel from your device to a server and back again.
Tips for getting the most accurate result
To get the most accurate results about your internet speed, you’ll want to eliminate any external factors that could be slowing it down. As you prepare to test your internet connection, consider the following tips:
- Close all tabs except for the one running the internet speed test.
- Disconnect any devices that you’re not using from Wi-Fi.
- Ensure the device you’re using to run this test has all of its updates and is running the most current operating system.
- Connect your computer directly to the modem using an Ethernet cable.
Get the speed you need
Overall, Australia’s internet speed is improving. However, your experience might depend heavily on your location, NBN connection type, and the service plan you choose.
Understanding your connection needs is the first step to getting the right internet plan. Think about how often you’ll be going online, for what purposes, and how many devices will be connected to the internet at the same time. If you’re ready to see if you can get faster speeds, compare NBN plans in your area to find the right fit for you and your household.
FAQs
Which NBN plan should I choose in Australia?
Once you assess your household’s internet needs, you can compare different NBN plans by using various online tools. This will help you choose a plan that meets your needs and save money by securing the best deal.
What are some factors that slow down my internet connection?
If you’re experiencing a slow connection, there are several things you can check. Reviewing your hardware is the first step, as using an efficient, up-to-date router ensures you’re getting the most out of your internet plan. Placing the router in a central, elevated location can also help you avoid interference. Disconnect idle devices, and close out browsers and applications that aren’t currently in use.
Can hardware slow down my internet connection?
Yes. Outdated hardware can cause a slow internet connection. Devices infected with malware can also experience slower connection speeds. Close unused tabs and restart your device to solve temporary performance issues. If the problems persist, try running a malware scan, which should be a routine part of your online safety.
Can I contract internet services in Australia if I’m not a citizen?
Yes. However, it might be a bit challenging if you don’t have a credit history or a fixed address. If you’re just arriving in Australia and don’t have the necessary documents or information for a contracted internet plan yet, you can opt for a prepaid plan.