Keeping everyone connected to the digital economy

Staying connected to news, reliable information and each other has never been more important. That’s why we’re giving some of our nbn voice-only customers more ways to keep in touch, with access to the internet at no extra cost.
Michael Ackland · 11 September 2020 · 2 minute read
An older couple smile as they sit together on a lounge and look down at something on a smartphone screen.

We’re always looking at new ways to fulfil our purpose: to build a connected future where everyone can thrive. Increasingly, being confident online and participating in the digital economy is vital to everyday living but also to ensuring a vibrant and resilient nation.

That’s why we’ve upgraded eligible voice-only nbn customers to the Starter Internet plan, at no extra charge. That means almost 100,000 people will get access to free internet as part of their existing plan, with some getting connected for the very first time.

We know that there are a range of barriers connecting to the internet for the first time, especially for the many older Australians who will benefit from this plan. That’s why we’re taking the guesswork and complexity out and making it free and easy to with the support needed to get started.

This plan will allow everyone to experience the benefits of being connected. From video calls to friends and family, accessing telehealth via Medicare, to online shopping, education and beyond. The Starter Internet plan includes 25GB of data to use each month; unlimited calls to standard local, national and Australian mobile numbers, and 500 calls per month to 13 numbers. 25GB of data is great for basic use, including sending and receiving emails, using apps and even streaming movies or music.

Whilst we’re more apart than ever, this connectivity can help families be closer to each other. Seeing the smile of your grandchildren via a video call can be a lifeline when you’re apart.

To make things easy, we’re sending how-to guide materials via post to those customers who have been upgraded to our new Starter Internet plan to help get them online and familiar with their new connection and the world beyond.

We’ve also got a range of getting started on the internet guides in several languages, info and videos to improve your digital skills.

We’ll be getting in touch with eligible customers soon so that they too can experience the awesome power of connectivity.

There’s never been a better time to be online.

Start building your digital skills

Topics

By Michael Ackland

Chief Financial Officer and Group Executive, Strategy & Finance

Michael is responsible for all our Consumer & Small Business sales and service channels. He joined Telstra in 2016 as Executive Director of Telstra Country Wide, with responsibility for over 350 retail stores and over 16,000 partners nationally. Michael joined Telstra from GE, where held the role of CEO GE Healthcare, Australia and New Zealand. In his 12 years at GE, Michael held various executive leadership roles across GE’s Australia and New Zealand business, including financial services, corporate and healthcare divisions. Prior to GE, Michael was Principal at The Boston Consulting Group, where he worked for eight years.

Related articles