Nothing’s worse than signing up for an NBN service, thinking you’ve got a great deal, only to be blindsided by extra charges you didn’t see coming. If this has happened to you, you’ve likely experienced scratching your head month after month.
Unfortunately, there are providers that rely on hidden fees to pad out their profits, hoping customers won’t notice until it’s too late. Unless you get your NBN plan from reputable providers like MATE, you should be extra mindful of what you sign up for. Let’s break down the most common hidden fees in NBN services. We’ll also show you how to spot and avoid them, so you’re never paying more than you should.
What are Hidden Fees in NBN Plans?
Hidden fees are unexpected charges that aren’t always made clear when signing up for an NBN plan. They might not be in big, bold letters on the website, but they’re often buried in the fine print of your contract.
Providers include these fees for a range of reasons—sometimes as a way to recover costs, other times as a strategy to make their plans appear cheaper upfront. And because they’re ‘hidden,’ they’re often overlooked by customers.
The Sneakiest NBN Fees to Watch Out For
Some hidden fees are more common—and more frustrating—than others. Here are a few you should keep an eye on:
- Connection fees – Always check whether activation is truly free. Some providers charge a one-time setup fee to get your NBN service running, even if you already have the necessary infrastructure in place.
- Early termination fees – Plan on switching providers before your existing contract is up? Be careful, as some providers might charge a hefty exit fee. These fees vary but may end up costing more than expected.
- Modem costs – A ‘free’ modem sounds great—until you realise it’s only free if you stay for the full contract term. Leave early, and you might have to pay for it.
- Plan change fees – Need to upgrade or downgrade your speed? You might be taken by surprise if your provider charges a fee just to make simple adjustments.
How to Spot Hidden Fees Before You Sign Up
As a smart consumer, you need to be careful of what you’re signing up for. Here are ways to spot hidden fees:
- Read the critical information summary (CIS) – Every provider is required to have one. It outlines key details about the plan, including fees. If something looks vague, dig deeper.
- Ask providers direct questions – Don’t be afraid to grill them on potential extra charges. Specifically ask about setup, cancellation, and modem fees.
- Check customer reviews – Other customers can be a goldmine of information. You’ll likely find complaints if the provider has previously been charging hidden fees.
Avoiding Overpaying for Your NBN Plan
Nobody wants to pay for something they don’t use. Surely, it’s also the case for something you use daily like your NBN.
- Find a provider that’s upfront about their pricing. If they clearly list all fees with no hidden surprises, you’re likely in good hands.
- Opt for no-contract or flexible plans. These plans often come with fewer penalties, giving you the freedom to switch if needed.
- If you already have a compatible modem, use it. By doing so, you already avoid hidden fees associated with modem rental or purchase.
Switching to a More Transparent Provider
Thinking of making the switch? While companies like MATE have been known to be a good choice, you still need to perform due diligence.
- Before cancelling, find out if you’ll be charged for leaving early. As mentioned earlier, there are providers that charge high exit fees, so watch out.
- Compare plans carefully, making sure to look beyond the monthly price. You also want to ensure the new provider isn’t hiding fees in the fine print.
- Confirm the transition process. Some providers handle everything for you, including notifying your old provider, while others require you to do it yourself.
Hidden fees come unexpectedly. Even worse, you may only realise them upon seeing your monthly bill. Avoid these unnecessary charges by getting your NBN plan from a trusted provider—one that respects their customers by being fully transparent about pricing.
