Quick answer
Yes. In Australia, data and phone cabling in your home or business must be done by a cabler registered under ACMA rules. NBN equipment itself, such as the NBN connection box, is generally moved by NBN through your internet provider. A registered cabler can run new cabling from it so your modem and Wi-Fi sit where you need them.
Why cabling needs to be registered
Phone and data cabling connects to the national telecommunications network. Poor cabling can cause faults, interference and safety issues, so the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) requires this work to be done by a registered cabler, following Australian cabling rules.
That applies to running new data points, extending phone or data sockets and cabling a home office or business. It’s not a DIY job, even if the parts are easy to buy.
What can be moved, and by whom
NBN equipment
The NBN connection box and the cabling up to it belong to NBN. Moving them is generally arranged through your internet provider.
Your cabling
Cabling from the NBN connection to your modem, data points and access points can be installed by a registered cabler.
The usual solution
Most people don’t need the NBN box itself moved. What they want is the modem and Wi-Fi in the middle of the house instead of the garage or a far bedroom. A registered cabler can run a new cable from the NBN connection to that spot, and add data points or ceiling Wi-Fi access points where they help most.
- Modem moved to a central spot for better Wi-Fi
- Wired data points for TVs, consoles and desks
- Ceiling access points for dead spots and outdoor areas
- A tidy comms cabinet if you have cameras and network gear
Signs you need better cabling
- Wi-Fi drops out in some rooms or outside
- Video calls freeze when others are streaming
- Your modem is in the garage, a cupboard or at one end of the house
- You’re adding security cameras and want them on wired connections
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