Wireless Connection to internet in Melbourne Auistralia?

Peter L Lovell · 12th February 2009

I am in Melbourne Australia

I have to move into a nursing home whilst I receive treatment for Multiple Sclerosis. I do not know how long the therapy will take - 6 to 10 months

My nursing home room has a private telephone outlet. But to get my own private telephone so I can get a broadband connection I must enter in to a private contract with a telephone company such as Telstra, Optus or BigPond for at least two years.

Are there any economical ways connecting my notebook to the internet (i.e. wireless or wifi ) without first having a regular telephone connection so I can set up a broadband connection?

It's a jungle out there and I do not know who to ask for reliable advice

May I repeat that I am in Melbourne Australia.

Thanks

Peter

**Steve R Jones** · 12th February 2009

Most cell phone providers in the USA provide wireless Internet service to just about anywhere that you can receive cell phone service. I'd imagine you can get the same thing.

**wildfire** · 12th February 2009

As well as Steve's suggestion most UK contracts are null & void if your provider cannot provide a service at your new address.

I'd start with:

1) checking if the Nursing Home can provide you with a service then...

2) ask your current broadband provider about options then...

3) If a different provider ask your mobile (cell) phone provider for options, finally

4) Start a new contract with a new supplier but advise (confirm any agreements in writing) them of the situation.

EDIT: Peter, please excuse my signature and username, I've been using it for a few years and has nothing to do with the situation in your area.

**TonyT** · 12th February 2009

You may be able to find a fellow patient who desires Internet, then share the bill and setup wireless router for the connection.