What are the best phone plan deals?

Everyone wants to save a buck or two, and when it comes to mobile phone plans, it’s all about getting the best value for money possible. Luckily there has never been a better time to choose a new phone plan, with telcos large and small competing for your business with some great offers and often incredible promotional deals. Here at Canstar Blue, we explore some of the biggest and best phone deals currently available in Australia — who’s offering what, when it expires and what you need to keep in mind so you can grab the best phone plan for your needs.

Mobile Phone Deals – quick glance

Read on for phone plan deals on the latest iPhone and Samsung Galaxy devices, but first, here is a selection of some mobile plan deals from our database if you’re looking for a SIM-only plan with unlimited talk and text around the $20-$40 price point (each billing period). Use our comparison tool below for even more deals. These are products with links to a referral partner.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	6GB Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited international SMS 100 standard international minutes to 35 countries min. cost $20 over one month plan period	6GBMax Data**/billing period	$20Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Moose 24.80 SIM Only Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $24.80 over one month plan period	10GBMax Data**/billing period	$24.80Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	11GB 30 Day Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Special offer: $4.90 for first 30 days min. cost $25 over 30 day billing period	11GBMax Data**/billing period	$25Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	UNLIMITED 30GB Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls to 10 countries Special offer: Get 40GB of data on the $30 plan for the life of your plan (normally 30GB). Terms apply (offer expires 31/01/20). min. cost $30 over 28 day expiry	30GBMax Data**/billing period	$30Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Green 35 Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $35 over one month plan period	10GBMax Data**/billing period	$35Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Medium Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Special offer: 22GB data + 18GB bonus data per month (offer expires 01/02/20). min. cost $480 over 12 month plan period	40GBMax Data**/billing period	$40Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
View all mobile plans listed on Canstar Blue			**^^View important information

Compare the Latest Phone Deals

iPhone 11 Phone Plan Deals

Apple’s latest iPhone upgrade landed in September 2019. If you’re interested, here are the cheapest published iPhone 11 deals on offer from Telstra, Vodafone and Optus for the standard 64GB model. These costs include handset repayments. This table includes featured products from our referral partners:

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	Apple iPhone 11 64GB + $39 Small Choice Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Price includes $49.50 monthly device payment min. cost $2,124 over 24 month plan period	10GBMax Data**/billing period	$88.50Advertised Data^^/billing period
	Apple iPhone 11 64GB + $40 Red Plus Plan Unlimited data*(capped at 1.5Mbps after 7GB) Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Price includes $49.95 monthly device payment min. cost $2,159 over 24 month plan period	7GBMax Data**/billing period	$89.95Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Apple iPhone 11 64GB + $50 Small Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Data-free music and sports streaming No excess data charges Access the free Telstra Air WiFi network 5G network access included until 20 June, 2020 Price includes $49.95 monthly device payment min. cost $2,398.80 over 24 month plan period	15GBMpax Data**/billing period	$99.95Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
View all mobile plans listed on Canstar Blue			**^^View important information

Here’s the cheapest way to get the 64GB iPhone 11 from each major telco:

• Optus Choice Small $39 Plan (10GB data): $72 per month ($39 plan + $333 phone payment). Total cost $1,188 over 36 months just for your phone; with the $39 plan added on, $2,592 over 36 months.
• Vodafone $40 Plan (7GB data): $73.30 per month ($40 plan + $33.30 phone payment). Total cost $1,199 over 36 months just for your phone; with the $40 plan added on, $2,639 over 36 months.
• Telstra Small Plan (15GB data): $83.30 per month ($50 plan + $33.30 phone payment). Total cost $1,198.80 over 36 months just for your phone; with the $50 plan added on, $2,998.80 over 36 months.

If you’re looking for more information on iPhone 11 plans – from cheap deals, to unlimited data and more – we’ve compiled some of the best new iPhone offers from Telstra, Optus and Vodafone.

• Jump to Best SIM-Only Plans

Samsung Galaxy S10+ Phone Plan Deals

Eyeing up the Samsung Galaxy S10+? Now could be the best time to score a deal on the most-wanted device from either Telstra, Vodafone, Woolworths Mobile or Optus. Below are some of the current published deals available for the new Samsung Galaxy S10+ 128GB flagship in our database— you can find more through our comparison tool. This table includes product links from our referral partners:

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	Samsung Galaxy S10+ 128GB + Extra Small Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Special offer: 3GB data + 2GB bonus data per month (offer expires 01/02/20). Price includes $64.50 monthly device payment, with $4.50 discount min. cost $2,040 over 24 month plan period	5GBMax Data**/billing period	$85Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Samsung Galaxy S10+ 128GB + $39 Small Choice Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Price includes $54 monthly device payment min. cost $2,232 over 24 month plan period	10GBMax Data**/billing period	$93Advertised Data^^/billing period
	Samsung Galaxy S10+ 128GB + $40 Red Plan Unlimited data*(capped at 1.5Mbps after 7GB) Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Price includes $62.45 monthly device payment min. cost $2,459 over 24 month plan period	7GBMax Data**/billing period	$102.45Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Samsung Galaxy S10+ 128GB + $50 Small Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Data-free music and sports streaming No excess data charges Access the free Telstra Air WiFi network 5G network access included until 20 June, 2020 Price includes $63 monthly device payment min. cost $2,712 over 24 month plan period	15GBMax Data**/billing period	$113Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
View all mobile plans listed on Canstar Blue			**^^View important information

Here’s the cheapest way to get the 128GB Samsung Galaxy S10+ from each major telco:

• Woolworths Mobile Extra Small Plan (2GB data): $65 per month ($25 plan + $43 phone payment, plus $3 discount). Total cost $1,498.68 over 36 months just for your phone, with the $20 plan added on, $2,218.68 over 36 months.
• Optus Choice Small $39 Plan (10GB data): $75 per month ($39 plan + $36 phone payment). Total cost $1,296 over 36 months just for your phone; with the $39 plan added on, $2,700 over 36 months.
• Vodafone $40 Plan (7GB data): $81.63 per month ($40 plan + $41.63 phone payment). Total cost $1,499 over 36 months just for your phone; with the $40 plan added on, $2,939 over 36 months.
• Telstra Small Plan (15GB data): $92 per month ($50 plan + $42 phone payment). Total cost $1,512 over 36 months just for your phone, with the $50 plan added on, $3,312 over 36 months.

You can find more Samsung Galaxy S10 series plans from Telstra, Vodafone, Woolworths Mobile and Optus.

What is the best phone plan?

There is no straightforward answer to this question. What might look like a good phone plan to one person, might not be the best phone plan for another person. Everyone’s needs are different, so it’s important to consider what you need from your phone plan. In order to determine the best phone plan for your needs, you’ll need to do some research to give you an idea on what is available from Aussie telcos. There are also several things you will need to consider, such as cost and inclusions, when looking for the best phone plan for your needs:

• Plan type: Prepaid or postpaid, phone-on-a-plan or SIM-only, along with the contract length or billing period of the plan.
• Cost: Plans can vary from under $10 to over $100 and these costs are often determined by the plan type and inclusions.
• Inclusions: How much call, text and data is included on the plan, do you need international calls or roaming, along with other extras.
• Network: Which network is the carrier with and will you get coverage where you live and work?

Phone Plan Deals January 2020

If you’re shopping around for a mobile phone deal, now is a good time to do it. You’ll soon realise that most of the time these deals come on a month-to-month basis, with a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) that operates off one of the three networks in Australia. They get a wholesale network and, consequently, have a bit of room to move on price; examples of MVNOs are Amaysim, Boost Mobile, Southern Phone, Dodo and supermarket mobile brands such as Woolworths Mobile and ALDI.

Expect deals like a few dollars off the normal monthly rates, extra data, freebies, or even all of the above. However, also be aware that some deals come with a catch. Hit the links below to jump to your favourite carrier:

• Catch Connect
• Boost Mobile
• Southern Phone
• Moose Mobile
• Telstra
• Vodafone
• TeleChoice
• Amaysim
• Woolworths Mobile
• Belong Mobile
• Dodo Mobile
• Circles.Life
• Yomojo
• Exetel
• Pennytel
• OVO Mobile
• Vaya
• Optus
• Kogan
• ALDI Mobile
• Coles Mobile
• Lebara
• LycaMobile
• SpinTel
• TPG

The tables below features a selection of published plans from each provider. Some sponsored products include a direct link to the provider’s website – for a greater selection of plans, search with our mobile comparison tool above.

Catch Connect Mobile Phone Deals

Catch Connect offers prepaid plans on the Optus 4G Plus network. The telco has plenty of options available, so whether you prefer a 30-day, 90-day or 365-day plan, you’ll be able to find a prepaid plan to suit your needs.

Currently, the telco is offering a special introductory deal for its 90-day plans: just $15 for your first 90 days across selected plans (8GB, 35GB, and 54GB). Prices will revert to normal from your first recharge onwards, so you’ll then pay $39 for the 15GB plan, $69 for 35GB, and $89 for 54GB — but again, these are all 90-day plans. This promotion will run for a limited-time only, and is available to all new customers.

You can also score your first month on a 30-day plan for just $4.90. The offer applies to all 30-day plans, with all new customers paying a flat $4.90 charge for their first 30 days.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	3GB 30 Day Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Special offer: $4.90 for first 30 days min. cost $15 over 30 day expiry	3GBMax Data**/billing period	$15Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	11GB 30 Day Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Special offer: $4.90 for first 30 days min. cost $25 over 30 day expiry	11GBMax Data**/billing period	$25Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	20GB 30 Day Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Special offer: $4.90 for first 30 days min. cost $35 over 30 day expiry	20GBMax Data**/billing period	$35Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	40GB 30 Day Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS 200 international minutes to 32 countries Special offer: $4.90 for first 30 days min. cost $49.90 over 30 day expiry	40GBMax Data**/billing period	$49.90Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
View all mobile plans listed on Canstar Blue			**^^View important information

Boost Mobile Phone Deals

Boost Mobile is a long-time Telstra MVNO and is, in fact, the only MVNO to get access to the full Telstra network – not just parts of it. Plus, all plans include data-free Apple Music streaming and all plans include some international call inclusions, with the included countries varying from plan to plan. Plans are available across seven-day, 28-day, six-month and 12-month expiry plans.

If you sign up to Boost’s $30, $40, $50 or $70 and activate your first recharge by 17 February, 2020 and the next two recharges to be activated by 20 April, 2020, you’ll receive a bonus 15GB of data each recharge for your first three recharges. These plans —along with the $10 and $20 prepaid offers— have also received some big permanent data jumps, so you can score a huge 65GB per month for $70 (plus 15GB in bonus data).

Currently you can pick up the $40 SIM for $20, but this offer expires Monday 27 January, 2020. You can also save $15 on the $150 12-month SIM — you’ll only pay $135 upfront (with 80GB of data included). Offer expires Monday 27 January, 2020.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	$30 Prepaid Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls & SMS to 20 countries, 100 mins & SMS to 35 countries, 100 MMS to 55 countries Get 15GB bonus data on the first 3 recharges. First recharge by 17/02/20, remaining two recharges by 20/04/20. Terms apply. min. cost $30 over 28 day expiry	20GBMax Data**/billing period	$30Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	$40 Prepaid Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls & SMS to 25 countries, 200 mins & SMS to 30 countries, 200 MMS to 55 countries Special offer: Get the $40 SIM for $20. Offer expires 27/01/20. Get 15GB bonus data on the first 3 recharges. First recharge by 17/02/20, remaining two recharges by 20/04/20. Terms apply. min. cost $40 over 28 day expiry	30GBMax Data**/billing period	$40Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	$50 Prepaid Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls & SMS to 25 countries, 200 mins & SMS to 30 countries, 200 MMS to 55 countries Get 15GB bonus data on the first 3 recharges. First recharge by 17/02/20, remaining two recharges by 20/04/20. Terms apply. min. cost $50 over 28 day expiry	40GBMax Data**/billing period	$50Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	$70 Prepaid Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls & SMS to 30 countries, 300 mins & SMS to 25 countries, 300 MMS to 55 countries Get 15GB bonus data on the first 3 recharges. First recharge by 17/02/20, remaining two recharges by 20/04/20. Terms apply. min. cost $70 over 28 day expiry	65GBMax Data**/billing period	$70Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
View all mobile plans listed on Canstar Blue			**^^View important information

Southern Phone Mobile Phone Deals

Southern Phone is a telco with a conscious, giving back some of its profits to regional councils to help with infrastructure and community projects. It’s below Green plans operate on the Optus 4G network, on both month to month and 12-month plans. If you’re happy to sign on for 12 months, you stand to receive slightly better deals with extra data compared to the month-to-month options.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	Green 11 Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $132 over 12 month plan period	1GBMax Data**/billing period	$11Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Green 16 Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $192 over 12 month plan period	3GBMax Data**/billing period	$16Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Green 22 Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $264 over 12 month plan period	7GBMax Data**/billing period	$22Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Green 32 Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $384 over 12 month plan period	16GBMax Data**/billing period	$32Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Green 40 Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $480 over 12 month plan period	30GBMax Data**/billing period	$40Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
View all mobile plans listed on Canstar Blue			**^^View important information

Moose Mobile Phone Deals

Moose Mobile is already a competitive postpaid provider, offering good deals on month-to-month plans, but the telco also has a range of 12-month plans that include a bit more value. If you’re willing to sign up for a year, you can stand to receive a more competitive phone plan with more data for your money.

Currently you can pick up some special offers on month-to-month plans. For $14.80 per month, you’ll now get 6GB of data (which reverts back to 2.5GB after you stay connected for 12 months) and for $19.80 per month, you’ll get 15GB of data for the first 12 months you stay connected (which reverts back to 4GB after 12 months). Terms apply. These offers may be withdrawn at any time.

Moose operates on the Optus network so you get good coverage and a great price. Below are a selection of 12-month SIM-only plans, in price order. This table includes links to a referral partner.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	Moose 14 SIM Only – 12M Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $168 over 12 month plan period	3GBMax Data**/billing period	$14Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Moose 19 SIM Only – 12M Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $228 over 12 month plan period	6GBMax Data**/billing period	$19Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Moose 25 SIM Only – 12M Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $300 over 12 month plan period	15GBMax Data**/billing period	$25Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Moose 33 SIM Only – 12M Unlimited standard national calls & SMS $300 international call credit min. cost $396 over 12 month plan period	30GBMax Data**/billing period	$33Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Moose 49 SIM Only – 12M Unlimited standard national calls & SMS $400 international call credit min. cost $588 over 12 month plan period	80GBMax Data**/billing period	$49Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
View all mobile plans listed on Canstar Blue			**^^View important information

Telstra Mobile Phone Deals

Telstra offers a wide variety of deals and bonuses to entice you over across its prepaid and postpaid plans, including data-free Apple Music streaming from the service. You’ll also get:

• Free Telstra Air WiFi hotspot use
• Data-free sports streaming from Australian netball, A League, NRL, AFL and AFLW
• Data-free streaming of Apple Music

If you’re looking for a plan with a phone – such as the new iPhone 11 series, or the Samsung Galaxy S10 series —the below month-to-month plans are available with devices bundled on, or as SIM-only. If you do decide to buy a new device from Telstra, you can pay it off over either 24 months or 36 months – your total will be the same either way, but a longer payment period means your monthly payments will be smaller.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	Small Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Data-free music and sports streaming No excess data charges Access the free Telstra Air WiFi network 5G network access included until 20 June, 2020 min. cost $50 over one month	15GBMax Data**/billing period	$50Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Medium Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Data-free music and sports streaming No excess data charges Access the free Telstra Air WiFi network 5G network access included until 20 June, 2020 min. cost $60 over one month	60GBMax Data**/billing period	$60Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Large Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Data-free music and sports streaming No excess data charges Access the free Telstra Air WiFi network 5G network access included until 20 June, 2020 min. cost $80 over one month	100GBMax Data**/billing period	$80Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Extra Large Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Data-free music and sports streaming No excess data charges Access the free Telstra Air WiFi network 5G network access included until 20 June, 2020 min. cost $100 over one month	150GBMax Data**/billing period	$100Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
View all mobile plans listed on Canstar Blue			**^^View important information

Vodafone Mobile Phone Deals

Vodafone, perhaps unsurprisingly, has some enticing mobile phone deals running most of the time. Most commonly found across its plans is bonus data, depending on your choice of plan. Vodafone has even been known to offer free Netflix subscriptions from time to time, although this promo isn’t available currently.

Vodafone often boosts data allowances and includes discounts on plan fees across SIM-only prepaid and postpaid along with plans bundled with phones. Students can score bonuses like extra data or discounts on plans, so keep an eye out for what is currently on offer.

The more you spend, the more bonuses you stand to receive. Out of the ‘Big 3’, Vodafone seems to be the most generous with its bonus data, but you’ll have to weigh up if that is worth switching. If you’re looking for a new phone, you’ll have the choice of plans similar to the below SIM-only plans, however data inclusions may vary on the phone plans.

Currently you can pick up a free Amazon Prime subscription on select plans when you sign up to select Samsung phone plans. This offer expires 28 February, 2020. Terms apply.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	$40 SIM Only Plus Plan Unlimited data*(capped at 1.5Mbps after 7GB) Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $480 over 12 month plan period	7GBMax Data**/billing period	$40Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	$50 SIM Only Plus Plan Unlimited data*(capped at 1.5Mbps after 60GB) Unlimited standard national calls & SMS 1000 international minutes to Zone 1 countries, 100 international minutes to Zone 2 countries min. cost $600 over 12 month plan period	60GBMax Data**/billing period	$50Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	$60 SIM Only Plus Plan Unlimited data*(capped at 1.5Mbps after 100GB) Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited international minutes to Zone 1 countries, 200 minutes to Zone 2 countries min. cost $720 over 12 month plan period	100GBMax Data**/billing period	$60Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	$80 SIM Only Plus Plan Unlimited data*(capped at 1.5Mbps after 150GB) Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited international calls to Zone 1 countries, 300 international minutes to Zone 2 countries min. cost $960 over 12 month plan period	150GBMax Data**/billing period	$80Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
View all mobile plans listed on Canstar Blue			**^^View important information

TeleChoice Mobile Phone Deals

TeleChoice is another provider offering discounts if you sign up on a contract over 12-month or 24-months rather than the month-to-month plans. If you sign up for a year or two, you’ll get a more competitive phone plan at your disposal — with savings between $3 and $9 per month available. It may not seem like much, but that adds up to $100+ annually in savings.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	LIVE 16 12M Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited texts to any country min. cost $192 over 12 month plan period	4.5GBMax Data**/billing period	$16Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	LIVE 25 12M Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited texts to any country min. cost $300 over 12 month plan period	20GBMax Data**/billing period	$25Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	LIVE 35 12M Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited texts to any country min. cost $420 over 12 month plan period	35GBMax Data**/billing period	$35Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	LIVE 45 12M Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited texts to any country min. cost $480 over 12 month plan period	55GBMax Data**/billing period	$45Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
View all mobile plans listed on Canstar Blue			**^^View important information

Amaysim Phone Deals

Amaysim is already well-known as a cut-price Optus network reseller, offering six prepaid mobile phone plans. Amaysim also offers energy plans and while there aren’t any specific bundling discounts available right now, Amaysim had previously provided free mobile plans for customers signing up for energy. Plus, the prepaid range includes an Unlimited 60GB plan for $50 over a 28 day billing period, that’s less than $1 per 1GB.

Currently all Amaysim plans include some serious data upgrades. The 1GB, 5GB and 30GB plans all include bonus data for the life of your plan when you sign up by 31 January, 2020. On the 45GB and 60GB plans, you’ll get unlimited data for your first three renewals (which need to be redeemed by 31 March, 2020), then after you’ve used your three renewals you’ll receive bonus data on these plans. This offer expires 31 January, 2020.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	UNLIMITED 1GB Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Special offer: Get 1.5GB of data on the $10 plan for the life of your plan (normally 1GB). Terms apply (offer expires 31/01/20). min. cost $10 over 28 day expiry	1GBMax Data**/billing period	$10Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	UNLIMITED 5GB Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Special offer: Get 8GB of data on the $20 plan for the life of your plan (normally 5GB). Terms apply (offer expires 31/01/20). min. cost $20 over 28 day expiry	5GBMax Data**/billing period	$20Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	UNLIMITED 30GB Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls to 10 countries Special offer: Get 40GB of data on the $30 plan for the life of your plan (normally 30GB). Terms apply (offer expires 31/01/20). min. cost $30 over 28 day expiry	30GBMax Data**/billing period	$30Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	UNLIMITED 45GB Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls to 10 countries Special offer: Get unlimited data on the $40 plan for the first 3 renewals, then 60GB (normally 45GB). Terms apply (offer expires 31/01/20). min. cost $40 over 28 day expiry	45GBMax Data**/billing period	$40Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	UNLIMITED 60GB Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls to 10 countries 300 min standard international calls to 22 countries Special offer: Get unlimited data on the $50 plan for the first 3 renewals, then 80GB (normally 60GB). Terms apply (offer expires 31/01/20). min. cost $50 over 28 day expiry	60GBMax Data**/billing period	$50Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
View all mobile plans listed on Canstar Blue			**^^View important information

Woolworths Mobile Phone Deals

Woolworths Mobile is the only supermarket phone plan provider to offer plans bundled with a new mobile phone; available devices include the Samsung Galaxy S10, S10+ and S10e. Not only that, but you can also choose between prepaid plans and 12-month SIM-only plans.

You can score bonus data on postpaid and handset plans each month if you purchase a plan before 1 February, 2020.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	Extra Small Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Special offer: 3GB data + 2GB bonus data per month (offer expires 01/02/20). min. cost $240 over 12 month plan period	5GBMax Data**/billing period	$20Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Small Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Special offer: 18GB data + 2GB bonus data per month (offer expires 01/02/20). min. cost $360 over 12 month plan period	20GBMax Data**/billing period	$30Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Medium Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Special offer: 22GB data + 18GB bonus data per month (offer expires 01/02/20). min. cost $480 over 12 month plan period	40GBMax Data**/billing period	$40Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Large Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Special offer: 35GB + 25GB bonus data per month (offer expires 01/02/20). min. cost $600 over 12 month plan period	60GBMax Data**/billing period	$50Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
View all mobile plans listed on Canstar Blue			**^^View important information

Belong Mobile Phone Deals

As a longstanding internet provider, Belong has expanded to offer mobile phone plans on the Telstra network. As a direct subsidiary of Telstra, Belong exists as a low-cost alternative to the big blue telco, and offers some interesting postpaid mobile phone plans. For $25, for example, you can receive unlimited calls and SMS, plus 10GB data. Belong also allows customers to ‘bank’ any unused gigabytes each month for later use, provided you pay for your service on time each month.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	Small 1GB Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Add international talk & text for $5 extra min. cost $10 over one month plan period	1GBMax Data**/billing period	$10Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Regular 10GB Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Add international talk & text for $5 extra min. cost $25 over one month plan period	10GBMax Data**/billing period	$25Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	Large 40GB Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls and SMS min. cost $40 over one month plan period	40GBMax Data**/billing period	$40Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
View all mobile plans listed on Canstar Blue			**^^View important information

Dodo Mobile Phone Deals

Dodo is primarily known for its internet plans, however it also has a small range of postpaid plans on month-to-month plans with optional international call, MMS and data add ons. You can pick up a plan for $5 with call and SMS inclusions, with the option of adding on a 2GB data pack for an additional monthly $10. Dodo also operates on Optus’ 4G network nationwide, so you can expect great coverage and fast data speeds.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	No-Data Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited international SMS Add on 2GB data for additional monthly $10 min. cost $5 over one month plan period	N/AMax Data**/billing period	$5Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	$5 Plan + 2GB Data Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited international SMS Add on 2GB data for additional monthly $10 min. cost $15 over one month plan period	2GBMax Data**/billing period	$15Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	6GB Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited international SMS 100 standard international minutes to 35 countries min. cost $20 over one month plan period	6GBMax Data**/billing period	$20Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
	12GB Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited international SMS 200 standard international minutes to 35 countries min. cost $30 over one month plan period	12GBMax Data**/billing period	$30Advertised Data^^/billing period	Go To Site
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Circles.Life Mobile Phone Deals

New telco on the block Circles.Life offers a different approach to SIM-only plans – selling a single unlimited talk and text deal for $28 per month. This customisable plan includes 20GB of data, with the option to add an additional 20GB for a further $10 per month. Customers can also add one-off data boosts ($6 for an extra 3GB) whenever necessary, with data bonuses also available for referring friends.

From now through to 28 February, 2020, you can also score a bonus 20GB of data each month for your first 12 months by entering the code 40FOR28 at checkout. This gives you 40GB of monthly data – plus unlimited standard national talk and text – for $28 per month.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	$28 SIM-Only plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Special offer: use code 40FOR28 for 20GB bonus data for first 12 months. Ends 28/02/20 min. cost $28 over one month expiry	20GBMax Data**/billing period	$28Advertised Data^^/billing period
	$28 SIM-Only plan + $10 data add-on Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $38 over one month expiry	40GBMax Data**/billing period	$38Advertised Data^^/billing period
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Yomojo Mobile Phone Deals

Yomojo is yet another Optus network reseller with some competitive prepaid plans, including a plan specifically designed for kids. If you’re part of a multi-user household, the telco also offers family bundling discounts: bundle two or more services, you stand to save up to 15% every 30 days, as opposed to if you sourced each plan separately.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	2GB Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $15.90 over 30 day expiry	2GBMax Data**/billing period	$15.90Advertised Data^^/billing period
	10GB Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $25.90 over 30 day expiry	10GBMax Data**/billing period	$25.90Advertised Data^^/billing period
	25GB Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $35.90 over 30 day expiry	25GBMax Data**/billing period	$35.90Advertised Data^^/billing period
	45GB Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $49.90 over 30 day expiry	45GBMax Data**/billing period	$49.90Advertised Data^^/billing period
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Exetel Phone Deals

Exetel is already one of the cheaper NBN providers out there, but did you know it also provides some great low-cost phone plans? Exetel runs on the Optus 4G network with no-contract plans starting at under $10 (with 300 minutes of calls, SMS and 1GB of data) and going up to $29.99 with a generous 18GB of data.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	Super Saver 4G 300 minutes standard national calls Unlimited standard national SMS min. cost $9.99 over one month plan period	1GBMax Data**/billing period	$9.99Advertised Data^^/billing period
	Saver 4G Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $14.99 over one month plan period	3GBMax Data**/billing period	$14.99Advertised Data^^/billing period
	Value 4G Unlimited standard national calls & SMS $50 standard international calls min. cost $19.99 over one month plan period	6GBMax Data**/billing period	$19.99Advertised Data^^/billing period
	Extra Value 4G Unlimited standard national calls & SMS $300 standard international calls min. cost $24.99 over one month plan period	10GBMax Data**/billing period	$24.99Advertised Data^^/billing period
	Plus 4G Unlimited standard national calls & SMS $500 standard international calls min. cost $29.99 over one month plan period	18GBMax Data**/billing period	$29.99Advertised Data^^/billing period
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Pennytel Phone Deals

After liquidating in 2013, Pennytel jumped back into the telco market when it was acquired by MyNetFone. Operating as a MVNO on the Telstra mobile network, Pennytel offers five SIM-only postpaid phone plans on a month-to-month basis. The focus is on simple plans across four price points and great customer support.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	1GB X-Small SIM-Only Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $10.99 over one month plan period	1GBMax Data**/billing period	$10.99Advertised Data^^/billing period
	2GB Small SIM-Only Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $15.99 over one month plan period	2GBMax Data**/billing period	$15.99Advertised Data^^/billing period
	4GB Medium SIM-Only Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $19.99 over one month plan period	4GBMax Data**/billing period	$19.99Advertised Data^^/billing period
	10GB Large SIM-Only Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls to 15 countries min. cost $24.99 over one month plan period	10GBMax Data**/billing period	$24.99Advertised Data^^/billing period
	20GB X-Large SIM-Only Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls to 15 countries min. cost $29.99 over one month plan period	20GBMax Data**/billing period	$29.99Advertised Data^^/billing period
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OVO Mobile Phone Deals

OVO Mobile is a competitive prepaid provider on the Optus network. OVO Mobile customers will also receive access to data-free streaming of partnered sports, including rugby, as well as a free cyber safety software login on all plans.

If you’re looking at a phone plan for your child, there are two OVO plans specifically designed for kids — the Mini and MiniPlus plans. The Mini plan includes some 500 minutes for standard national calls and unlimited national SMS with 2GB of data. The MiniPlus plan has unlimited standard national calls and SMS plus 4GB of data. There’s also some reasonable data inclusions on the top three plans with 30GB on the Medium, 35GB on the Large and 40GB on the Extra Large plan. The international call inclusions are also fairly generous with 100 to 1,000 minutes on the three top-level plans.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	Mini 500 minutes standard national calls Unlimited standard national SMS min. cost $9.95 over 30 day expiry	2GBMax Data**/billing period	$9.95Advertised Data^^/billing period
	MiniPlus Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $14.95 over 30 day expiry	4GBMax Data**/billing period	$14.95Advertised Data^^/billing period
	Small Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $19.95 over 30 day expiry	10GBMax Data**/billing period	$19.95Advertised Data^^/billing period
	Medium Unlimited standard national calls & SMS 100 international minutes to 32 countries min. cost $29.95 over 30 day expiry	30GBMax Data**/billing period	$29.95Advertised Data^^/billing period
	Large Unlimited standard national calls & SMS 600 international minutes to 32 countries min. cost $34.95 over 30 day expiry	35GBMax Data**/billing period	$34.95Advertised Data^^/billing period
	Extra Large Unlimited standard national calls & SMS 1000 international minutes to 32 countries min. cost $49.95 over 30 day expiry	40GBMax Data**/billing period	$49.95Advertised Data^^/billing period
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Vaya Mobile Phone Deals

Since being under the wing of Amaysim, Vaya has continued to build upon its competitive postpaid SIM-only plans. Like its bigger brother, Vaya uses the Optus network and offers five month-to-month plans with some fairly generous data inclusions for your money.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	Unlimited M Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $24 over one month plan period	18GBMax Data**/billing period	$24Advertised Data^^/billing period
	Unlimited L Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $36 over one month plan period	38GBMax Data**/billing period	$36Advertised Data^^/billing period
	Unlimited XL Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $44 over one month plan period	50GBMax Data**/billing period	$44Advertised Data^^/billing period
	Unlimited XXL Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $56 over one month plan period	64GBMax Data**/billing period	$56Advertised Data^^/billing period
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Optus Mobile Phone Deals

Optus is known for offering plenty of incentives for customers across its range of plans, including bonus data and the following plan extras:

• Free Optus Sport, including live Premier League content
• Free six or 12-month Apple Music subscription

It’s worth keeping your eyes peeled for these and other offers, like special Promo plans for set devices, plan discounts and even free gifts with certain plans and device plans.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	$39 Small Choice Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $39 over one month plan period	10GBMax Data**/billing period	$39Advertised Data^^/billing period
	$49 Medium Choice Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls to 35 countries Stream Optus Sport data free Special offer: Up to 6 months free Apple Music min. cost $49 over one month plan period	60GBMax Data**/billing period	$49Advertised Data^^/billing period
	$59 Large Choice Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls to 35 countries Stream Optus Sport data free 2GB global roaming data Special offer: Up to 12 months free Apple Music min. cost $59 over one month plan period	100GBMax Data**/billing period	$59Advertised Data^^/billing period
	$79 Extra Large Choice Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls to 35 countries Stream Optus Sport data free 4GB global roaming data Special offer: Up to 12 months free Apple Music min. cost $79 over one month plan period	120GBMax Data**/billing period	$79Advertised Data^^/billing period
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Kogan Mobile Phone Deals

Kogan Mobile is known as a cut-price prepaid provider, operating on the Vodafone 4G network. Although all of its prepaid plans are offered on a 30-day contract-free basis, Kogan is especially competitive with discounts if you commit to 90 days or more upfront.

For example, although its Large 20GB plan is $36.90 every 30 days, you’ll pay $99.90 for 90 days upfront – which works out to be just $33.30 monthly. The savings get larger if you commit to a longer period.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	Medium Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $29.90 over 30 day expiry	13GBMax Data**/billing period	$29.90Advertised Data^^/billing period
	Large Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $36.90 over 30 day expiry	20GBMax Data**/billing period	$36.90Advertised Data^^/billing period
	Extra Large Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $49.90 over 30 day expiry	40GBMax Data**/billing period	$49.90Advertised Data^^/billing period
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ALDI Mobile Phone Deals

While you line up for your milk, bread and Special Buys, you might want to pop an ALDI Mobile SIM card in your trolley as well. ALDI’s plans mean you can enjoy a massive 48GB for $45; enough for social media scrolling lots of video streaming. ALDI Mobile is a prepaid provider running off the Telstra network, so you know you’re getting great coverage. You’ll also be able to rollover any of your unused data.

Currently you can pick up bonus data on each plan — 1GB on the $15 plan, 5GB on the $25 plan, 10GB on the $35 plan and 12GB on the $45 plan. This offer is only available on the first recharge and is applied to your data rollover balance between 8 January and 12 February, 2020. Terms apply.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	$25 Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard calls and SMS to 15 countries 100 mins to 35 countries min. cost $25 over 30 day expiry	18GBMax Data**/billing period	$25Advertised Data^^/billing period
	$35 Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard calls and SMS to 15 countries 200 mins to 35 countries min. cost $35 over 30 day expiry	35GBMax Data**/billing period	$35Advertised Data^^/billing period
	$45 Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard calls and SMS to 15 countries 300 mins to 35 countries min. cost $45 over 30 day expiry	48GBMax Data**/billing period	$45Advertised Data^^/billing period
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Coles Mobile Phone Deals

Coles Mobile has a range of prepaid plans, with two out of its four options featuring a 35-day expiry period and the other two on 10-day and 365-day expiries. If you’re willing to commit for 12 months, Coles Mobile’s 365-day plan for $180, features 48GB of total data. This works out to be 3GB each month for only $15, but you will have to pay upfront and ration out your data pool over the course of the year.

As a running offer, if you sign up to Coles Mobile’s $20 or $40 plan, you’ll get extra data on your first three recharges. The $20 plan will give you 28GB in total on your first three recharges before reverting to 3GB, while you’ll get 35GB for your first three recharges on the $40 plan before reverting to 10GB. The catch is that these three recharges must occur within 90 days of activation and both plans run on 35-day expiry periods. This may be a limited time offer so it’s best to check the the Coles Mobile website for terms and conditions before signing up.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	35 Day Plan – 3GB Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $20 over 35 day expiry	3GBMax Data**/billing period	$20Advertised Data^^/billing period
	35 Day Plan – 10GB Unlimited standard national calls & SMS 250 standard minutes to 10 countries min. cost $40 over 35 day expiry	10GBMax Data**/billing period	$40Advertised Data^^/billing period
	365 Day Plan – 36GB Unlimited standard national calls & SMS min. cost $180 over 365 day expiry	48GBMax Data**/billing period	$180Advertised Data^^/billing period
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Lebara Mobile Phone Deals

Lebara has been on the Aussie market since 2001 and has a reputation for keeping customers connected to friends and family overseas with its range of SIM-only prepaid plans. Lebara also offers some generous bonus data inclusions from time to time, so it’s worth keeping an eye out to see what is on offer from the telco.

Currently you can pick up discounts on four of its 30-day plans. The Extra Small plan is now $7.45, the Small plan is $12.45, the Medium plan is now $14.95 and the Large plan is $19.95. Terms apply. This offer expires Monday 20 January, 2020.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	Small Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls to 20 countries Special offer: 6GB data + 6GB bonus data per month (offer available until withdrawn, terms apply). min. cost $24.90 over 30 day expiry	6GBMax Data**/billing period	$24.90Advertised Data^^/billing period
	Medium Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls to 30 countries Special offer: 12GB data + 12GB bonus data per month (offer available until withdrawn, terms apply). min. cost $29.90 over 30 day billing period	12GBMax Data**/billing period	$29.90Advertised Data^^/billing period
	Large Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls to 45 countries Special offer: 22GB data + 16GB bonus data per month (offer available until withdrawn, terms apply). min. cost $39.90 over 30 day billing period	22GBMax Data**/billing period	$39.90Advertised Data^^/billing period
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LycaMobile Mobile Phone Deals

Chances are you’ve probably seen a LycaMobile SIM pack in your local Coles, Woolies or convenience store, but what you might not know is the company has a solid range of prepaid plans on offer, all of which use Telstra’s 4G and 3G networks. The telco is also known to offer discounts on recharges and bonus data, so it’s worth checking from time to time to see whats available.

Lycamobile is currently offering bonus data and discounts on your first month’s plan fees across a range of plans for new customers, for a limited time.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	S Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls to 12 countries Special offer: 28GB + 5GB bonus data (limited time, terms apply) Special offer: Half-price SIM for first month only ($30 now $15). Offer available until withdrawn, terms apply. min. cost $30 over 28 day expiry	28GBMax Data**/billing period	$30Advertised Data^^/billing period
	M Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls to 15 countries Special offer: Half-price SIM for first month only ($40 now $20). Offer available until withdrawn, terms apply. min. cost $40 over 28 day expiry	45GBMax Data**/billing period	$40Advertised Data^^/billing period
	XL Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Unlimited standard international calls to 54 countries Special offer: Half-price SIM for first month only ($50 now $25). Offer available until withdrawn, terms apply. min. cost $50 over 28 day expiry	60GBMax Data**/billing period	$50Advertised Data^^/billing period
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SpinTel Mobile Phone Deals

SpinTel offers five postpaid mobile phone plans, with prices starting at $9.95 and going up to $26.95. While the Small plan offers you 2GB of data under $10, your national calls are capped at 100 minutes. However, if you prefer unrestricted calling, there is another $9.95 plan option with 1GB of data and unlimited standard national calls, along with the $15.95, $19.95 and $26.95 plans.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	$9.95 S Plan 100 standard national minutes Unlimited SMS Special offer: $10 SIM fee waived for a limited time min. cost $9.95 over one month plan period	2GBMax Data**/billing period	$9.95Advertised Data^^/billing period
	$19.95 L Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS Special offer: $10 SIM fee waived for a limited time min. cost $19.95 over one month plan period	7GBMax Data**/billing period	$19.95Advertised Data^^/billing period
	$26.95 XL Plan Unlimited standard national calls & SMS $100 standard international call credit Special offer: $10 SIM fee waived for a limited time min. cost $26.95 over one month plan period	15GBMax Data**/billing period	$26.95Advertised Data^^/billing period
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TPG Mobile Phone Deals

On its four prepaid plans, TPG is offering discounted rates for your first six months. TPG currently uses Vodafone’s coverage, and while the telco had started building its own network, it has had to cancel this plan more recently, so customers can probably expect to stay put with the Vodafone network.

Brand	Features	Max Data**/billing period	Advertised Cost^^/billing period
	T4G Medium Unlimited standard national calls & SMS 100 standard international minutes min. cost $29.99 over one month expiry	10GBMax Data**/billing period	$29.99Advertised Data^^/billing period
	T4G Large Unlimited standard national calls & SMS 100 standard international minutes min. cost $34.99 over one month expiry	15GBMax Data**/billing period	$34.99Advertised Data^^/billing period
	T4G Extra Unlimited standard national calls & SMS 100 standard international minutes min. cost $39.99 over one month expiry	20GBMax Data**/billing period	$39.99Advertised Data^^/billing period
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What’s the deal with these mobile phone deals?

Choosing a mobile phone plan is more than just naming your price and how much data, calls and texts you want. As previously mentioned, when you choose your phone plan, there are several things to consider.

Plan type

The first thing to consider is what type of plan you’re interested in. Do you only need a SIM card or would you like a new smartphone on a plan? If you want a new handset, this will limit your selection of telcos as only a small group of telcos offer new phones on a plan. If you already have a phone or are planning on buying your device outright, you’ll need to decide whether a prepaid or postpaid SIM-only plan is right for you. Generally you can get similar call, text and data inclusions on both prepaid and postpaid, but there are pros and cons to both. For a more in-depth guide on SIM-only plans, you can check out our SIM-only plans guide. If you’re interested in a new phone, check out our smartphone comparison, iPhone or Samsung guides for more information on devices and plans.

Cost

Everyone likes to save a bit of money, but the cheapest phone plan isn’t always the ‘best’. While a phone plan for $10 or less might sound great, these plans generally have very limited inclusions with around 1GB of data. Cheap prepaid plans might also run on a short expiry period of seven or 10 days, requiring you to recharge three to four times per month. If you’re a big data user, the inclusions on these cheaper plans might not be enough data for you and you could find yourself paying excess data charges, which are generally around $10 for 1GB of extra data. Think about your monthly budget and what you can afford as a starting point.

Inclusions

The inclusions on a plan can often determine the cost of the plan. When looking at call, SMS, data and other inclusions, such as international calls and entertainment extras, you need to be realistic with what you will actually use. If you’re a very light phone user and sign up to a plan with 10GB of data, you might find you don’t come anywhere close to using up your data allowance, so you could be better off on a plan with 5GB or less. If you’re a heavier data user, many plans include very generous data inclusions with some plans even offering over 100GB. Some providers also include unlimited data at capped speeds of 1.5Mbps, so you won’t get charged for excess data usage. Plans might also include entertainment extras like data-free sports streaming and free subscriptions, or other extras like data pooling, international calls, global roaming inclusions or bonus data.

Network

Another important factor to consider is which mobile network you’ll be on. Telstra, Optus and Vodafone all operate mobile networks in Australia, but many of the smaller telcos, known as Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs), run on parts of these networks. If you’re in a regional or remote part of Australia, you might find you’ll only have coverage from one or two networks and in most cases, the MVNOs won’t always have access to the full network coverage that the network operator does. Once you’ve found a plan you’re interested in, check that telco’s website to find out if you will have coverage in your area, including where you work and any place you travel to regularly.

Once you’ve compared phone plans from several providers, if there are a couple virtually identical plans that have caught your eye, then you might be better off going with the one that offers the most incentives like bonus data, data banking or entertainment extras. However, there’s usually a catch to get these deals, like buying online only, buying before a certain date, redeeming your offer within a certain period, and so on.

While these deals may be great on paper, you might think twice if you have to do too much legwork. As for the big three providers, while they are generally the most expensive plans on the market, they do pack in value for money:

• Telstra has the data-free Apple music and sports streaming options with access to some of the most popular sport competitions in the country, along with the Telstra Air WiFi network.
• Vodafone seems to be the most generous with bonus data and its plans with unlimited capped data are at reasonable price points.
• Optus has a good balance between data inclusions and price, while offering data-free streaming of sports on most plans.

Overall, the main message is that you probably shouldn’t choose a plan just based on what bonuses it offers. You might find these bonuses don’t last for very long or might require you to hop on a more expensive plan than you had intended. In any case, it pays to look at both the big three providers and a range of MVNOs to see what deals are out there and whether a certain provider really suits what you’re looking for.

Mobile phone deals: a quick summary of providers

Compare Prepaid Phone Plans