The majority of questions asked were around the speed, service reliability and disconnection of the nbn network, head of nbn local Amber Dornbusch said.

“A number of people had questions about the disconnection of the existing copper network and how this would affect their existing landline phone and internet services,” she said.

“It is important for the community to be aware once the fixed line nbn broadband access network is switched on in a particular area, residents and businesses have an 18 month window to contact their preferred phone or internet provider and make the switch. After this time the nbn network will replace most existing landline and internet services and the copper network will be decommissioned.”

Ms Dornbusch said there were also many premises in the wider surroundings were eligible to connect to retail services on the nbn broadband access network through the Sky Muster satellite service, which has been available since 2016.

People can find out if they are eligible using the Check Your Address function at nbnco.com.au/switch.

Nbn powered plans are sold by more than 150 different phone and internet providers. A list of providers can be found on the nbn website.

Most people are not aware that for the first time in history they have a choice of speeds when switching to an nbn powered plan. This is why we recommend you talk to your phone or internet provider about the speed tiers available in your area, as well as the actual speeds you can expect to experience, particularly during peak times like the evening, to ensure you are signing up for a plan that best suits your needs.

You need to contact your phone or internet provider in the first instance.

In most cases you will still need to order an nbn powered plan even if you just have a landline. Once the nbn nbetowrk goes live in an area there is an 18 month window to contact a phone or internet provider.