Telstra Internet Plans and Broadband Deals for Pensioners


Senior couple broadband

Whether you’re a senior citizen looking for a reliable internet connection or simply trying to browse websites for information, we’ve got you covered. The internet is a fundamental, essential service nowadays – almost as crucial as a home phone – but getting a good deal on a plan can be difficult

Telstra offers great plans for seniors with multiple advantages. The telco company provides top internet connections suitable for pensioners and senior citizens looking to use the internet. What are the best Telstra broadband options you can use as a pensioner? Here’s how to find the right Telstra NBN plans for pensioners and a few examples of the best Telstra plan options.

What’s In This Guide?

What Are the Best Telstra Broadband Plans for Seniors and Pensioners?

If you’re a pensioner looking for a Telstra broadband plan with slow NBN speeds and won’t use the internet too frequently, Telstra NBN plans are ideal. They might not provide dedicated seniors plans, but you can select their low-speed options that still offer a good download speed and work well for internet users who don’t require high-speed data. 

However, there are other plans to consider too. Let’s explore them now.

Telstra Low-Speed Plans for Senior Citizen Internet Users

Telstra’s low-speed and basic NBN options offer a few advantages, such as a landline phone that includes local and national calls, plus a smart modem that you can use with your NBN plan. With all of Telstra’s NBN plans, you won’t have to sign up for a lock-in contract. These options are good NBN plans for seniors and will give you unlimited data.

The lower speed tiers are the cheapest NBN plans that come at an affordable monthly price with no lock-in contract. These give you a home phone line, a broadband connection with uncapped data each month, and the new Telstra Smart Modem 3 to enable wireless broadband throughout your home. 

There is a connection fee, which Telstra will offer at a discount or waive completely if you sign up online and agree to a longer contract.

Telstra Mid-Speed Plans for Seniors

Are the lower-speed tiers enough for you, though? Naturally, it depends on what you plan to use the internet for. If browsing through websites, web surfing, and reading and writing emails are the main reasons you want to use broadband, these options should offer more than enough speed. 

If you plan to do more with your home internet, mid-speed NBN plans are also available from Telstra and come with a landline connection. This is similar to the Optus NBN plans, Flip NBN plans, and Aussie Broadband seniors options (which offer VoIP calls included and casual phone plans). 

These plans are slightly more expensive than the cheapest NBN plans offered by Telstra, but the add-ons and inclusions make each plan great value for money when compared with other NBN providers.

While specific Telstra NBN plans for pensioners aren’t available, many Telstra plans and home phone combinations are great for senior citizens. You won’t need to be concerned about data loss if you need to contact someone on their mobile. While some plans don’t offer unlimited international calls, you can get a limited number of minutes to call overseas countries with specific plans.

Suppose you will be using the internet for multiple online activities that require greater speeds, or you have relatives who enjoy online gaming or want to stream Netflix and will use your internet connection. In that case, you might need to think about choosing one of Telstra’s NBN plans that offer higher speeds.

High-Speed Plans for Pensioners

In cases where you’ll need more speed for your streaming TV needs, we’d recommend you spend an extra sum per month and move up to the higher speed tiers. These offer faster download speeds than lower-tier options, as well as unlimited data and no surprises when you check your bill at the end of the month.

Telstra’s faster plans are the most expensive, but are ideal for households with multiple internet users. These plans are for large households that complete high-internet usage activities simultaneously, like downloading large files, gaming, and streaming 4K and 8K.

If you’re unsure how much data you’ll need, don’t worry because Telstra allows you to change between plans without penalty at the end of every month. You can sign up without any contract commitment with Telstra’s new standalone internet plans; you just need to pay a one-off modem fee, although they will waive that fee in the plan package if you stay connected for 24 months.

High-Speed Internet Plans

Plan
Inclusions
Price
NBN 245 Unlimited - Month to Month
  • $25/mth off for 6 mths. Ends 25/06/24
  • NBN 245 Unlimited - Month to Month
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 245™ Fixed Line
  • Get $20 off Dodo modem
  • Up to $10/mth off when bundled with energy
  • $85/mth
$85/mth
for 6 mths, then $110/mth thereafter
Min Cost - $85 first for the 6 mths (incl. $79 modem cost)

Family NBN
  • Satisfaction Guarantee: Return modem within 21 days for a full refund
  • Family NBN
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 100™ Fixed Line
  • Typical evening speed of 95Mbps
  • Optional modem for $99 w/ free delivery
  • $94.80/mth
$94.80/mth
Min Cost - $94.80 over 1 month

Home Superfast
  • Save: $20/mth for first 6 mths. Offer ends 25/06/24
  • Free Wi-Fi 6 modem if you stay connected for 12 mths. T&Cs apply
  • Home Superfast
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 245™ Fixed Line
  • Typical evening speed of 245Mbps downstream and 21mbps upstream
  • No set up fees
  • $90/mth
$90/mth
For the first 6 mths, then $110/mth thereafter
Min Cost - Total Minimum Cost is $230 ($110/mth plan fee + $120 modem cost = $230)

Mobile Broadband Plans from Telstra

Like a few other providers, mobile broadband for pensioners is also available from Telstra and plenty of options are available. You can learn how to set up your mobile phone to use WiFi and data and connect to the internet using the Telstra Tech Savvy Seniors help page on the Telstra website. Also on this page are pointers for how to use the Telstra app, get bill assistance, and more.

What Telstra Internet Senior Discounts Are Available?

Telstra offers discounts and a few concessions for seniors and pensioners with their NBN speed plans, but these offers may not be available to all citizens. It’s best to look at the Telstra website to learn more about these concessions and discover if you’re eligible for these senior discounts.

However, Telstra’s range of home broadband plans encompass almost every need. They’re ideal in terms of speed and data amounts and offer flexible payment options since they offer users a no lock-in contract option. Therefore, seniors can choose worry-free unlimited data at a very reasonable price to save money. You can also switch plans without worrying about receiving a fee from Telstra.

In some situations, if the NBN already exists at your address, you will also get free installation for the NBN connection. In other cases, if your building or home hasn’t been connected to the internet before, you must pay a New Development Charge. Learn more by visiting the Telstra website.

Best Telstra Internet Bundles for Seniors

Telstra’s mid-range plan could be the best if you spend a lot of time online. Data usage can increase quickly, whether on paid services like BINGE, Apple TV or Netflix or free ones like ABC iView, and a mid-range speed can help stream these entertainment services.

Likewise, if you’re connecting any or multiple devices with high download demands, such as a game console, it’s best to have the peace of mind of not having to worry about a download limit.

According to Telstra testimonials from senior citizens in Australia, “the sign-up process is uncomplicated, and the call centre is locally based”, meaning that compared with other providers, Telstra is an excellent option for senior Aussies looking to establish an internet connection with minimal hassle or complications.

One factor to note with Telstra Broadband’s current range of internet plans is that they are now effectively “bundles”. No matter which plans you choose, you’ll get a home phone line included, with no line rental to pay and unlimited free phone calls to all phones across Australia (including mobiles). 

By itself, the home phone bundles with unlimited calls is available for a reasonable price per month from Telstra, so when you get it bundled in with your internet, you can see just what a bargain the internet can be. This bundle is ideal as a seniors discount option.

Telstra Extras and Fees with NBN Plans

What you’ll also receive with Telstra as a senior citizen is cyber security options to enhance the protection levels of your internet connection and mitigate any suspicious online activities.

A few additional costs apply with this provider. Telstra demands late fees for late bill payments and a fee for paper bills, but by using the Telstra app, you can avoid the small fee they ask for.

How to Choose the Best NBN Plans for Seniors

Each of the best NBN plans Telstra offers align with unique internet requirements, but it’s best to check the website to find a plan that suits you. For example, if you need to stream ultra-HD videos to enjoy with your family, the fastest speed tiers are best.

All Telstra plans are “NBN Ready” – in other words, when the NBN arrives in your area, you can just move over to the new network without hassle or cost. Regardless of what type of NBN service your home gets, you’ll still have access to the best NBN plans, home phone and internet without having to shop around again. 

You can also check other affordable NBN plans, exclusive deals, and plan features best suited for seniors and pensioners and the total cost on the Telstra website.

Stream Movies and Sports with Free BINGE & Foxtel Now

Plenty of extra benefits are available with Telstra’s internet plans that suit seniors and pensioners alike. Whether you want to stream entertainment, such as movies, or stream sports, such as your favourite football games, Telstra has a good option.

Netflix and Kayo Via Telstra

If you like watching movies and sports like most people in Australia, you should consider adding Netflix and Kayo to your monthly Telstra bill. If you sign up to Kayo via Telstra, you get the Basic Plan at a discounted fee to make significant savings.

Netflix features multiple films, series, and documentaries ready to view with a subscription. It’s a bundle option that you can enjoy and is relatively easy to manage or upgrade your subscription to receive higher-plan features immediately. Remember that even though Telstra will bill you for the Netflix subscription, you will still receive the same Netflix content.

If you need guidance on managing a Netflix subscription, contact Telstra for support or head to their support entertainment Netflix webpage to learn more. 

If you want to add a Kayo Sports subscription to your Telstra bill, you will enjoy live sports in high-definition quality, which you can watch with your family and friends. For a slightly higher monthly fee, it’s possible to watch live sports on more than one screen. The mid-range subscription option enables you to watch live sports on two screens, and the upper-range subscription enables you to watch live sports on three screens.

Your subscription will depend on your needs, so check the additional features and special offers on the Telstra website.

Get Kayo SportsFREE for 7 Days!Watch Now

BINGE Via Telstra

Now there’s even more to enjoy and other benefits – the arrival of streaming TV service BINGE brings you a world of premium TV and movie entertainment, on your TV or on the go. As a Telstra broadband customer, you can access BINGE to watch your favourite shows with your family.

BINGE is an add-on entertainment subscription with all of Telstra’s NBN plans, from basic to ultimate. For a very small fee per month, you can get BINGE Premium to watch your favourite shows on four screens without adverts. This offer might suit you if you have family members who enjoy watching entertainment.

New to BINGE?Get Your 7-Day Free Trial Now!Watch Now

Foxtel Now Via Telstra

Apart from BINGE, you can enjoy Foxtel Now from Telstra if you sign up for the service using your Telstra account. This offer also provides you with all Foxtel Now channel packs and is available for a small fee. You can watch shows and movies on several devices and up to two screens simultaneously. Customising channel packs is possible depending on your own favourites. You can add sports, movies, and drama packs to your entertainment.

It’s easy to manage your Foxtel Now subscription — just do it through your Telstra account. Foxtel deals are also available through Telstra.

Get Foxtel Now All Packswith a 10-Day FREE Trial!Watch Now

Spotify Premium

Spotify Premium is also available with Telstra for a small monthly fee, giving you access to all your favourite music and podcasts at home and on the go. Spotify Premium also provides a personalised radio option and many more perks.

To make the most of Spotify Premium for podcasts, personalised radio or songs, you just need to sign in using your Telstra ID and redeem the offer for Spotify Premium. If you want to cancel the subscription, you can do this anytime.

Which Telstra Internet Plan is Right for You?

If you’re a pensioner who wants to get online with a reliable and fast broadband service – and keep the home phone active without needing to change your phone number – then take advantage of Telstra’s internet plans. You’ll have a larger allowance or unlimited one and unlimited phone calls to everywhere in Australia, saving considerable money compared to the traditional cost of home phone lines and calls.

For an all-in-one home phone and internet, these plans and bundles are a great choice, with the option to add an entertainment package of your choosing anytime.

Not Convinced by Telstra? Pick Another Provider

Telstra offers great internet plans for senior citizens, but you might not be entirely happy with this internet service provider and want to switch to an alternative option. Optus and Aussie Broadband are two alternatives that provide specific plans that suit senior citizens. 

Aussie Broadband, for example, offers plans that suit seniors that use the internet heavily or not much at all. Optus offers home phones for citizens who may have impaired hearing. Check out the following internet plans and NBN connections to find a Telstra alternative:

NBN Broadband Plans

Plan
Inclusions
Price
Everyday NBN
  • Satisfaction Guarantee: Return modem within 21 days for a full refund
  • Everyday NBN
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 50™ Fixed Line
  • Typical evening speed of 47Mbps
  • Optional modem for $99 w/ free delivery
  • $79.80/mth
$79.80/mth
Min Cost - $79.80 over 1 mth

NBN50 Unlimited - Month to Month
  • $15/mth off for 6 mths. Ends 25/06/24
  • NBN50 Unlimited - Month to Month
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 50™ Fixed Line
  • Get $20 off Dodo modem
  • Up to $10/mth off when bundled with energy
  • $65/mth
$65/mth
for the first 6 mths, then $80/mth thereafter
Min Cost - $65 for the 6 mths (incl. $79 modem cost)

Optus Plus Everyday nbn®
  • Ultra WiFi 6 modem incl.
  • Optus Plus Everyday nbn®
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 50™ Fixed Line
  • $0 Startup Fee
  • 50/18Mbps typical busy period speeds (7pm-11pm)
  • $85/mth
$85/mth
Min Cost - $391 incl. $306 modem cost and $85 (1mth of plan fee) if you stay connected for 1mth only. $0 modem if you stay connected for 36 mths.

Standard Plus
  • Free Wi-Fi 6 modem if you stay connected for 12 mths. T&Cs apply
  • Standard Plus
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 50™ Fixed Line
  • Typical evening speed of 50Mbps downstream and 17mbps upstream
  • No set up fees
  • $80/mth
$80/mth
Min Cost - Total Minimum Cost is $200 ($80/mth plan fee + $120 modem cost = $200)

Telstra Plans for Seniors FAQs

Still, looking for more comprehensive information about Telstra’s internet plans and broadband deals for pensioners and senior citizens? Here are some crucial FAQs and answers to consider.

What Does Streaming Mean?

Streaming, whether you stream podcasts, radio or movies, means you can play the content you like through your Telstra internet connection without downloading it. With streaming perks, you can instantly access the content you want by pressing the play button.

Do All Cordless Home Phones Work Via NBN Connections?

If your home has a cordless home phone, there is a high chance you can use it with an NBN internet connection. This process will require you to inform the NBN provider about the model and make of your cordless phone and that you would like to keep the phone number you already have.

Can an Old Phone Socket Work With NBN Connections?

You may encounter problems if you have an old phone socket and want to establish an NBN connection, but there’s no need to worry — you can buy an adaptor that will work with your new connection. The easiest way to find these adaptors is to go to your electronics store.