Planning to change NBN providers? You’ll need this number

Photo by Alexey Demidov on Unsplash
Source: Photo by Alexey Demidov on Unsplash
// WTF is AVC?
Fergus Halliday
Apr 17, 2025
Icon Time To Read1 min read

Changing your NBN provider just got a little more complicated.

Under new industry rules coming into effect this week, Aussies looking to shift their internet service from one NBN provider to another will now need to provide their Access Virtual Circuit Identifier (AVC ID) to do so. 

This unique form of identification will allow NBN providers to identify your specific connection point and, going forward, will be necessary to move your service. It consists of a 15-character code, followed by the letters 'AVC' and a 12-number sequence. In some situations, an AVC ID may also be useful when it comes to troubleshooting connection issues.

The only way to get a new AVC ID is by fully cancelling your connection. You'll keep the same AVC ID whenever you move house or providers. However, as per reporting by WhistleOut, you won't be able to transfer your service from one provider to another without one.

If you're not sure what your AVC ID is, you're probably not the only one. The first place to look for it is the latest NBN bill. Can't find it there? You might need to chase it up with your current provider.

Although an AVC ID might make changing NBN providers slightly more complicated than it used to be, it's still likely the easiest way to save money on the cost of internet in Australia.

If you're currently in the market for a new NBN plan, be sure to take a look at the widget below for a snapshot of the most popular choices in our database.

Fergus Halliday
Written by
Fergus Halliday is a journalist and editor for Reviews.org. He’s written about technology, telecommunications, gaming and more for over a decade. He got his start writing in high school and began his full-time career as the Editor of PC World Australia. Fergus has made the MCV 30 Under 30 list, been a finalist for seven categories at the IT Journalism Awards and won Most Controversial Writer at the 2022 Consensus Awards. He has been published in Gizmodo, Kotaku, GamesHub, Press Start, Screen Rant, Superjump, Nestegg and more.

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