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Telco · Updated 21 September 2026
Critical Information Summary explained (mobile and NBN)
Compare the mandatory one-pager, not the ad. Intro vs ongoing price, data, typical speeds, contract length and fees — then return to the switch checklist. This page is not a live plan table.
Do this today
Step 1
Open the CIS
Find the Critical Information Summary on the provider’s plan page before you apply.
Step 2
Compare the fields that matter
Intro vs ongoing price, data, typical evening speed (NBN), contract length, exit or device fees.
Step 3
Switch with eyes open
Follow the phone and internet hub steps. Use ACMA guidance; TIO if something breaks.
What a CIS is
A Critical Information Summary (CIS) is the one-page document every telco must publish for a plan: price, data, typical speeds, contract length, and fees. Compare CIS documents, not ads.
Where to find it
On the provider’s plan page — usually linked near the apply button or in the plan details. There is no single URL for every telco. If you cannot find a CIS, treat that as a reason to pause before signing up.
Fields that matter most
- Intro vs ongoing price — ads often lead with the intro. Budget on the ongoing figure after any discount period.
- Data inclusions — monthly allowance, fair-use notes, and what happens if you run out.
- NBN typical evening speed — for broadband, compare the 7–11pm speed, not just the product name.
- Contract length and notice — month-to-month is common; some providers still want written notice to cancel. Always check the CIS.
- Exit or device-related fees — especially if you still owe a handset balance on your current plan. Check your current contract before you switch.
Common ad traps
- Headline intro pricing that jumps after three to twelve months.
- Product names that sound faster than the typical evening speed on the CIS.
- Comparing an ad screenshot to another ad — always open both CIS files side by side.
Before you act
- Plans change. Read the live CIS on the provider’s site before you apply.
- This page is not a live plan table and does not rank SIMs or NBN plans.
- SavySaver does not take a cut of phone or internet switches.
Official next steps
- Phone and internet hub — switch checklist, porting and coverage notes
- Bill check — quick triage if you are not sure which bill to tackle
- ACMA — switching phone or internet
- Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman
- ACCC — broadband speeds
Questions
What is a Critical Information Summary?
A CIS is the one-page document every telco must publish for a plan: price, data, typical speeds, contract length, and fees. Compare CIS documents, not ads.
Is the CIS the same as the ad?
No. Ads can emphasise intro prices or product names. The CIS is the document to compare.
What if intro and ongoing prices differ?
The CIS should show both. Prefer the ongoing price for budgeting once any intro period ends.
Do NBN plans still lock you in?
Month-to-month is now common across speed tiers. Always check the CIS: some providers still want 30 days’ written notice to cancel.
Where do I complain if the plan doesn’t match?
First the provider. If that fails, the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman (TIO). The ACCC handles misleading advertising.