What small businesses need to know about disconnection and switching to the nbn
Making the switch to the nbn can be overwhelming and seem too complicated with all the tech talk, but it doesn’t have to be.
The VSBC is working with NBN Co to help small businesses have a better understanding of how to connect. In our latest video, we speak with NBN Co local’s Ebony Aitken about areas coming up for disconnection in July, August and September and what small businesses need to know. We’re also holding free breakfast events with NBN Co in Swan Hill on 1 August and Mildura on 2 August to provide local businesses with expert advice on how to get nbn ready.
So what does the switch mean for small businesses in Victoria? With the nbn gradually being rolled out area by area, it’s important for you to get prepared early and switch affected services before your disconnection date, even if you only use a landline. As each area switches on, NBN Co will send you information about how you can connect. If your business is in a fixed line area, you have an 18-month ‘ready for service’ window before your existing services are disconnected.
Some small businesses might be concerned they could miss their ‘ready for service’ window. Don’t worry, NBN Co will send you up to five pieces of communication, including through registered post, which will have all the details about your disconnection timeframe. It’s a good idea to use this window to make sure you understand what you need to transition in your business.
About 40 per cent of small businesses turn to a local IT or computing store for support in making the switch. With this in mind, it’s good to know that NBN Co is working with computing stores and IT businesses to support them in becoming ‘nbn accredited’ to provide advice.
So what steps can you take early on?
Making the switch
- Use NBN Co’s ‘check your address’ tool to find out when your area is scheduled to switch on and your disconnection date
- Be clear about the telecommunications and data services you need, for example, multiple phone lines, EFTPOS terminals or cloud services – top tip: use NBN Co’s business readiness checklist
- Speak with your service provider about your specific needs to help make sure you get the best solution
- Decide on the equipment you want connected to the network, for example, security systems, fire alarms, printers or data backup solutions
- Contact the equipment providers to make sure what you need is compatible with services provided by the nbn
- Think about the best installation spot and conditions for optimal Wi-Fi coverage.
Don’t put this in the too hard basket – it really is best to get prepared early.