Layla UsmanVoIP vs Multi-Line Systems: The Ultimate Guide for Australian Businesses in 2025
Why It’s Time to Rethink Your Business Phone Setup
As Australian businesses embrace hybrid work and digital transformation, communication technology is changing faster than ever. Legacy multi-line phone systems — once the backbone of every office — are increasingly being replaced by VoIP and cloud-based PBX systems.
For over 30 years, BroadConnect Technologies has helped small and medium-sized enterprises across Australia modernise their communications with reliable, scalable, and cost-effective solutions. Whether you’re running a small clinic, a transport company, or a multi-site retail business, choosing the right phone system can determine how efficiently your team connects, collaborates, and serves customers.
So how does VoIP compare with traditional multi-line systems, and which is the smarter choice for your business in 2025?.
The Shift to Smarter Connectivity
Today’s workforce is mobile, digital, and cloud-connected. Staff expect to answer calls on any device, join meetings instantly, and integrate communication tools with CRM and workflow platforms like Microsoft 365. Meanwhile, businesses are demanding lower costs, faster deployment, and enhanced reliability. The answer for most is clear: VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol).
But before you decide, it’s worth understanding the practical differences between VoIP and the traditional multi-line setup many Australian offices still use.
Comparison Table: Multi-Line Systems vs VoIP
| Feature | Multi-Line System | VoIP / Cloud PBX |
|---|---|---|
| Connection Type | Copper-based landlines | Internet-based calls |
| Hardware | On-site PBX and desk phones | Cloud-hosted system, optional handsets |
| Scalability | Limited | Virtually unlimited |
| Setup & Maintenance | Complex, requires technician | Quick setup, remote management |
| Cost | High upfront + ongoing line rental | Low monthly per-user fee |
| Remote Access | Office-bound | Works anywhere via app |
| Integrations | Minimal | CRM, Microsoft Teams, analytics |
| Security | Dependent on physical access | Encrypted VoIP & TLS protocols |
| Ideal For | Fixed-location offices | Modern SMEs, hybrid teams |
Key Insight:
Multi-line systems still serve small, single-site businesses with minimal change needs. However, VoIP offers the scalability, integration, and reliability that 2025 Australian businesses need to compete.
Internet speeds and performance can vary between providers, particularly during busy hours. Independent reports from the ACCC Telecommunications and Internet Performance program regularly publish insights on broadband speed, reliability, and service quality across Australia.
We have worked with BroadConnect for several years now and their service has been amazing. When we transitioned our office phones and internett to BC, the team was quick to answer queries and gave regular updates during the process.
The Business Benefits of VoIP
Seamless Remote Connectivity
With hybrid work becoming the norm, VoIP ensures that employees can connect securely whether in the office, at home, or on the go. BroadConnect’s Cloud PBX Phone System allows calls, video meetings, and messaging to happen anywhere with a stable connection.
Reduced Costs
VoIP eliminates expensive hardware, line rentals, and maintenance fees. Plans start from as low as $25 per month per user, running over Australia’s most reliable Telstra Wholesale Network. Learn more about our Business Mobile Plans and bundled options.
Integration with Modern Tools
VoIP integrates seamlessly with Microsoft Teams & Flex, CRMs, and collaboration platforms — enabling smarter workflows and faster response times.
AI & Automation Ready
BroadConnect’s AI Meeting Transcription & Call Recording Solutions help you automatically capture, record, and transcribe every conversation in real-time — reducing manual work and improving service accuracy.
Why Some Businesses Still Rely on Multi-Line Systems
While VoIP is fast becoming the new standard, some Australian offices still rely on traditional setups. Reasons often include familiarity, existing infrastructure, or a perception that internet-based calling is less stable.
However, with today’s business-grade NBN and SIP Trunking technology, those concerns are largely outdated. In most cases, businesses switching to VoIP enjoy superior call clarity, lower costs, and better uptime.
Top Causes of Internet Downtime for Australian Businesses
According to recent Australian SME connectivity surveys, nearly half of business downtime incidents stem from ISP-related network issues, often worsened during provider transitions. The good news? By choosing a reliable business internet provider like BroadConnect, you can minimise disruptions with proactive installation scheduling, expert support, and network redundancy solutions that keep your business connected even during changeovers.
Local Support & Network Management
Unlike overseas providers, BroadConnect offers 100% Australian-based support and full Managed IT & Networking Services, including cybersecurity and SD-WAN optimisation for crystal-clear call quality.
2025 Trends Reshaping Business Communications
The telecom market in Australia is evolving, and businesses are adapting quickly:
- Cloud-first adoption: Most new phone deployments now happen in the cloud, reducing on-site setup time.
- AI-driven insights: Call data and analytics are helping businesses better understand customer needs.
- Cybersecurity by design: Providers like BroadConnect now embed secure VoIP encryption (TLS/SRTP) as standard.
- Mobility as a priority: Business Mobile is now a key part of unified communications strategies.
- Simplified infrastructure: Companies are consolidating voice, data, and network management under one provider — saving both time and money.
Case Example: From Legacy PBX to Cloud
A financial firm in Parramatta recently transitioned from a 10-line copper PBX setup to BroadConnect’s fully hosted VoIP & SIP Trunking system.
Within weeks, they:
- Reduced telecom costs by 42%
- Unified communication across three branches
- Integrated Microsoft 365 for call scheduling and reporting
- Enabled remote call management for staff working interstate
Considering the Switch? Here’s What You Should Know
Moving from a legacy system to VoIP doesn’t have to mean downtime. BroadConnect ensures a smooth transition with minimal disruption.
We handle:
- Number porting
- Call routing setup
- User training
- Ongoing support
You keep your existing phone numbers and gain access to advanced cloud features, all managed locally by our Australian support team.
Future-Proof Your Business with BroadConnect
2025 is the year to modernise your business communication. Whether you’re ready to move to VoIP, need a hybrid system, or want expert advice on cost-saving connectivity — BroadConnect has the expertise, infrastructure, and support to make it happen.
With 100% Australian-based support, over 30 years of experience, and partnerships with Cisco, Microsoft, and Telstra, we help you stay connected, reliably and affordably.
📞 Get your free consultation today
Visit us: Level 23, 127 Creek Street, Brisbane QLD 4000
Call: 1300 880 330
Email: hello@broadconnect.com.au