THE first retail price plans for the government-built broadband network have been released, with consumers set to pay similar prices for the same services available in metropolitan areas now.

But services will become more expensive as speeds and download limits rise - reaching $190 a month for the highest speeds and download limits.

The mid-sized internet provider Internode is the first company to release its retail prices on the national broadband network. Plans start at $60 a month, including line rental and some telephone calls.

The top prices are more expensive than estimates given by NBN Co in December, which predicted retail prices of $62 to $68 for a service which Internode prices at $89.95.