RDAUTBMag2026

copper-line issues resulting in poor internet performance. These are issues that sit within the nbn, and ones that are solved by moving to fibre. Jono continues, “Moving to fibre is the easiest thing to remove the annoyance of poor internet. Even when there are storms and floods, as long as there is still electricity, fibre continues to work. Copper often doesn’t. Once you’re set-up and your Wi-Fi is working, you’ll probably never need to talk to us again. Of course, that breaks our heart as we love talking to our customers!” Howwill fibre benefit the average Australian? For many Australians, the upgrade to fibre feels like a daunting project rather than a simple speed boost. Those using low speed/low-cost plans or those who are less tech savvy often just want internet that works and does so without the bells and whistles. But in an increasingly digitised world, one that has seen work from home (WFH) become increasingly adopted, smart homes become increasingly pertinent, and streaming services in many households, faster and more stable internet is needed to stay connected and for devices to be online at the same time with minimal disruptions. When it comes to the benefits of fibre, it is a more reliable and future proof outcome for customers than legacy copper lines. Copper wiring relies on electrical signals, which weaken over longer distances, often leading to slower speeds and less reliable service. While wireless and satellite internet can be a good alternative in areas without fibre access —particularly in regional and remote locations— these services typically have higher latency and are more susceptible to disruption from poor weather. Fibre, by contrast, transmits data using light, allowing it to travel much longer distances with PHOTO CREDI: AUSSIE BROADBAND reader ’ s digest 36   MAY 2026 minimal signal loss; it is also far less affected by weather, as the cables are securely protected underground. Beyond this, the raw speed of fibre far exceeds that of other fixed‑line technologies. It can comfortably support residential speeds of up to 2,000 megabits per second (Mbps), and even that only scratches the surface of its true capability. Apart from the reliability and future‑proofing benefits, fibre will also save costs over the long‑term for those currently on legacy technologies like copper, which degrades more frequently and has higher maintenance costs than fibre. Full fibre also allows for a logical, sensible post‑migration path where customers can upgrade their connection over time as they require. The average Australian household is increasingly overwhelmed by a messy buffet of choice. When faced with dozens of redundant speed tiers and complex pricing structures, people often default to the cheapest option or disengage entirely, missing out on the benefits of higher‑tier connectivity. Aussie Broadband works closely with nbn to advocate for a clearer, simpler wholesale pricing structure so that, along with other RSPs, we can focus on communicating the real‑world value that comes with migrating to fibre and adopting higher speed internet. “Fibre is important because it’s the technology that is built for the future, today. Think of fibre like a mobile phone, and copper like an older style home phone. Both do a good job making phone calls, but one lets you do so much more. Mobile phones changed people’s lives. Fibre has the ability to change people’s home and working lives. Things like gaming, watching Netflix, using Teams, making Video Calls for work, all those things are faster and more reliable with fibre. The PHOTO CREDI: AUSSIE BROADBAND readersdigest.com.au     37 Trusted Brands