Tara Donnelly

Tara Donnelly is Canstar Blue’s Utilities Editor, leading the team that focuses on energy, telecommunications and consumer technology. She has spent more than a decade covering these topics in Australia, the US and Canada, and has authored over 500 Canstar Blue articles. Her expertise has seen her appear in national media including 9 News, 7 News, Sunrise, the ABC , The Australian Financial Review, 4BC Radio and The Sydney Morning Herald. Tara has been nominated for multiple awards for her technology reporting, including Canstar Blue’s highly commended recognition for Best Consumer Technology Coverage in 2024. She has a Bachelor of Communications from the University of Canberra and is passionate about simplifying complex subjects so consumers aren’t just informed, they’re connected and confident. You can read more of Tara's published articles and follow Tara on LinkedIn.




NBN 25 plans

Compare the best NBN 25 plans in Australia

Posted by May 5th 2025

KEY POINTS Often the slowest (and cheapest) NBN speed tier offered from a wide range of NBN providers. Suitable for small households with lighter internet usage needs but can handle HD video streaming (on one …



Prepaid SIM Cards Compared

Prepaid SIM Cards Compared

Posted by May 1st 2025

Instead of billing you after the expiry period like postpaid plans, prepaid plans give you more flexibility. Packed with commitment-free value, there are some awesome deals going on prepaid SIM cards these days, which is …


Best phone plans on Vodafone Network

Phone plans and deals for students

Posted by July 2nd 2025

Compare student phone plans and deals from Telstra, Optus, Vodafone and other telcos in this Canstar Blue review.



Washing machine running costs

Washing machine running costs

Posted by June 11th 2025

How much does it cost to do a load of washing? Canstar Blue takes a close look at what your washing machine adds to your electricity and water bills.


Young woman using smartphone against pink background

The best prepaid phone plans with unlimited data

Posted by April 29th 2025

While unlimited data is a staple in the home internet world, unlimited data phone plans are a little harder to come by. Fortunately, the big three major Aussie telcos have all recognised the need for …