Basics
After the merger of Vodafone and Three in 2009-13, three national networks remain in Australia:
- Telstra
- Optus (yes)
- Vodafone Hutchison Australia
This is added by a very competitive MVNO market on all three operators. They are sometimes cheaper, but some of them still don't offer 4G/LTE or only good data SIM cards: ALDI mobile, amaysim, Boost mobile, dodo, gotalk, Hello Mobile, Lebara mobile, Lycamoble, Virgin mobile amongst others. Some MVNO companies left the market recently: Global Gossip, Savytel and yatango amongst others and are not listed anymore.
Frequencies and coverage
2G on 900 MHz, (1800 MHz). Telstra has shut down its 2G network in December 2016. Optus has shut down its 2G network coverage in two states (WA, NT) in April 2017, and will follow nationally on August 1st 2017. Vodafone will be shutting down its 2G coverage in September 2017, so from October 2017 there will be no more 2G/GSM coverage in Australia at all. Better bring a 3G or 4G/LTE device.
3G on 850 MHz, 900 MHz, 2100 MHz. Telstra has the best coverage in Australia on its "Next G" network on 850 MHz with some back up in cities on 2100 MHz. It covers 99% of the population. Optus is in 2nd spot on 900 MHz with back up on 2100 MHz on 98.5% Vodafone uses 900 MHz and 2100 MHz frequencies covering about 96% on 3G.
4G/LTE: 700 MHz (band 28), 850 MHz (5), [900 MHz], 1800 MHz (3), [2100 MHz,] 2300 MHz (40 in TDD), 2600 MHz (7):
- Telstra: already covers 90% of the population with 4G in 2015. Its main frequencies are 1800 MHz and 700 MHz nationwide, backed up by 2600 MHz in population centres.
- Optus: network covers 90% of the population using mainly their 700 MHz and 1800 MHz frequencies. This is added by 2600 MHz in rural areas, 2300 MHz TDD-LTE in metro areas. Optus is the only MNO up to now who lets some of its MVNOs on LTE too.
- Vodafone: was the last to start with 4G/LTE in major population centres. It uses the 850 MHz band mostly with some 1800 MHz supplements in 4 out of 12 regions.
So there is a clear rank: Telstra has the best coverage, followed closely by Optus and finally Vodafone catching up.
Regulations
For all Australian prepaid SIM cards, you used to show some photo ID (drivers licence or passport) in an outlet of the operator. Nowadays activation is mostly done online on the website of the operator. There you have to fill in your personal data before the SIM card will activate. A passport and an Australian address is sufficient.
The major brands like Telstra, Optus, Vodafone or resellers like amaysim or Lycamobile are sold in kiosks, newspaper stands, fuel stations, major supermarkets and other stores all over the country. Only smaller brands or brands linked to a distribution chain must be bought in their special outlets.
First the three network operators are presented in order of their position in the country (what coverage or customers are concerned), followed by some of their MVNOs in alphabetical order.
All prices quoted in $ are in AUD$ (Australian dollars).
Telstra
Telstra, officially Telstra Corp. Ltd,. is the former public telco of the country, but for long been privatised now. As such it has the most extensive coverage at the highest prices. It's 3G and 4G networks are the best in the country and has the best coverage, especially in rural areas although there isn't much difference in most major towns. While historically the cost is higher than average, if you are looking to connect from remote areas, this is sometimes the only network available and/or reliable: coverage map.
Frequencies
Telstra has closed down its 2G network on 1st December 2016. 3G: 850 MHz (main frequency, countryside), 2100 MHz (back-up in centres). 4G: 700 MHz (Band 28), 1800 MHz = main frequency, 2600 MHz (CBDs). In 2017 Telstra announced that it covered 99% of population by 4G. This gives the best 4G coverage in the country, but leaves many areas in the outback still uncovered. Without a fallback to 2G for a good coverage on 3G, you'll need to have a 3G device on 850 MHz which is not so common in many parts of the world.
Availability
In Telstra T-Life stores and many other places. However, not all T-Life stores are run by Telstra, some are franchises: Find-your-nearest-Telstra-Retail store. Their prepaid SIM starter kit comes in three varieties in all 3 SIM sizes and open for 4G/LTE:
- for free: without any credit for mobiles and tablets
- $10: including 100 dom. mins, unlimited SMS and 1 GB data for 2 weeks
- $30: including $30 credit, 1.5 GB(+1.5GB night bonus) valid for 30 days, credit is applied as a recharge after activation. Roll over your unused data to use within your next recharge.
You can top-up by voucher, available at many stores, service stations or supermarkets, by debit/credit card or PayPal online on your Telstra account. To check your balance type #100#.
Prepaid SIM card
You can choose between different prepaid tariff lines. All prepaid Telstra offers provides Free Telstra Air WiFi data until 27 March 2017. These are the WiFi hotspots located on top of the Telstra public pay phone boxes located nationwide. The two most suitable for visitors are:
- Simplicity: data is by default at 10c per MB. $20 recharge gives 30 days, $30 60 days, $50 90 days and $100 recharge 180 days of service and the equivalent credit.
- Pre-Paid Plus: combo packs with data and unlimited calls to Telstra and all domestic texts included valid for 28 days. Take care: overuse is charged at $2 per MB! "Browse Plus Packs" (see below) can be added on this offer, and data as well as credits rolls over to your next top-up
- $30: 1.5 GB (+ 1.5 GB night bonus to use between 8pm to 8am) = 3 GB
- $40: 3 GB (+ 3 GB night bonus to use between 8pm to 8am) = 6 GB
- $50: 4 GB (+ 4 GB night bonus to use between 8pm to 8am) = 8 GB
- for more data you can add: 1 GB for $10 or 2.5 GB for $20
- The other plans Long Life focus on validity and Beyond Talk on calls and texts and don't give good rates for data.
Telstra lets you roll over your unused recharge credit when you recharge before your credit expiry date.
Data feature packages
Their "Browse Plus Packs" can be booked on every prepaid line like Simplicity, but not on Freedom Plus.
- $5: 30 MB - activation; BROWSEPLUS5
- $10: 200 MB - activation: BROWSEPLUS10
- $20: 700 MB - activation; BROWSEPLUS20
- $39: 1 GB - activation: BROWSEPLUS39
- $49: 3 GB - activation: BROWSEPLUS49
- $59: 4 GB - activation: BROWSEPLUS59
To activate, text code without blanks to 125 7587. Unused data expires in 30 days. If you don't select a Browse Plus Pack, the standard rate will apply.
Data-only SIM
For their data-only SIM aimed at tablets and modems, you need to buy a special prepaid starter kit designated "for tablets": They are sold like the voice SIMs for $2 or $30 (see above) in all 3 SIM sizes. They only have data and text, no voice.
To get started you’ll need to activate your SIM Card online here. Make sure you have your new service number or SIM serial number. You’ll find this on the packaging.
Take care, that without a package, you stay at the expensive default rate of $2 per MB. You can add these packages:
| Volume | Period | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2 GB | 7 days | $ 20 |
| 3 GB | 30 days | $ 30 |
| 6 GB | 90 days | $ 60 |
| 10 GB | 180 days | $ 90 |
| 20 GB | 365 days | $ 150 |
Your unused data will roll over to the next month when you recharge before your credit expiry date.
More info
- Tethering and VoIP are allowed
- APN: telstra.internet
- Website: http://www.telstra.com.au
Optus (yes)
Optus a.k.a. yes is the 2nd oldest telco in Australia. It is now owned by Singtel. So their official name is Singtel Optus Pty Limited. It's the biggest rival of Telstra in Australia. The coverage is not as good as Telstra's in the countryside, but in most cities and towns, there is little difference between the two of them. Optus has a very detailed coverage map system that gives expected service quality information for voice and data and is available here.
Optus is a wholesaler for a number of smaller MVNOs which often offer less expensive services with the same network as Optus and can be found further down the page. Optus has recently updated its app now requiring access to users contacts and is redirecting phone inquiries to the app.
Frequencies
2G: 900 MHz, 1800 MHz. 2G coverage is no longer available in Western Australia or Northern Territories. 2G coverage will no longer be available as of August 1st 2017. 3G: 900 MHz, 2100 MHz. 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (band 28, national coverage frequency covering 90% of the population), 1800 MHz (other main frequency), 2300 MHz (TDD) (metro capacity frequency), 2600 MHz (regional capacity frequency).
Availability
In all yes Optus stores (locator), many Australian post offices and other places. Their prepaid SIM starter kit comes in 3 varieties in all 3 SIM sizes and is open for 4G/LTE:
- $2: without any credit
- $10: including $10 credit
- $30: including $30 credit
- $40: including $40 credit
You can top-up by voucher, available at many stores, service stations or supermarkets, by debit/credit card or PayPal online on your Optus account here.
You will also need to log on to Optus website to activate SIM here. You will need an Australian address to activate your SIM card. You can give an hotel address or any other for it.
Credit expiry depends on how much credit you top up with and which prepaid plan you have activated. To check your balance text the number 1 to 9999.
Prepaid SIM card
They have 3 different plans for prepaid based on daily or monthly rates:
- My prepaid daily plus: For $2/day you get 500 MB data and unlimited AU voice and text. Using more data, you "auto-bump" to $4/day including 1 GB. If you need even more data, you can buy an add-on of 500 MB for $2. All allowances expire at the end of the day which is 11:59pm local time. All credit top-ups come with 6 months expiry.
- My prepaid long expiry: Data is charged at an expensive 5c per MB, but packs can be added (using the Optus website or app). Data starts at $5 providing 500 MB for 14 days and $10 providing 1.5 GB data which also lasts for 14 days. All credit top-ups last for 186 days except for a $60 top up providing 365 days validity.
- My prepaid ultimate:
| Top-up | Validity | Data | AU voice | AU text | Credit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $ 10 | 7 days | 300 MB | 100 mins | unlimited
SMS |
---- |
| $ 20 | 14 days | 800 MB | 200 mins | ---- | |
| $ 30 | 28 days | 3 GB | unlimited
mins |
$ 5 | |
| $ 40 | 6 GB | $ 10 | |||
| $ 50 | 8.5 GB | $ 15 | |||
| $ 60 | 11 GB | $ 20 |
For more data on my prepaid ultimate, you can buy add-ons at $5 for 500 MB or $10 for 1.5 GB valid for 14 days. You can roll over up to 15 GB when you recharge before expiry. The extra credit included in the $30 - $50 top ups can be used to make international calls or for international roaming (International roaming data costs $0.50c per MB).
Data-only SIM
Optus finally released data-only plans called Prepaid Mobile Broadband. Starter kits in all three SIM sizes are offered with preloaded data volume:
- for $ 2 with 50 MB data (valid for 7 days)
- for $ 10 with 1 GB data (valid for 7 days)
- for $ 30 with 4 GB data (valid for 30 days)
The following reloads for the Prepaid Mobile Broadband are sold:
| Volume | Period | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 days | $ 10 |
| 4 GB | 30 days | $ 30 |
| 7 GB | 1 year | $ 50 |
| 22 GB | 2 years | $ 130 |
You need to top-up online by credit card, debit card or PayPal here . You can roll over your unused data up to 50 GB to the next month when you recharge before expiry.
More info
- Tethering is supported
- APN: yesinternet (for 4G/LTE) /or/ internet
- Website: http://www.optus.com.au/
Vodafone Hutchison Australia
Vodafone is the 3rd and smallest of the national providers in Australia. 2009-13 it merged with Three (Hutchison), and network integration has been finalized. It now has a fairly good network, but not yet quite on par with the two leading operators. For remote areas, better check coverage first: network checker.
Frequencies
2G: mostly 900 MHz, few 1800 MHz. Vodafone will close down its 2G network in September 2017. 3G: 900 MHz (countryside), 2100 MHz (cities). 4G: 1800 MHz = main frequency and 850 MHz. LTE coverage is in the population centres so far (see network checker above).
Availability
Their SIM card is sold in Vodafone stores (locator) and other places or online to be sent to an Australian address. Their prepaid SIM starter kit comes in different varieties in all 3 SIM sizes and open for 4G/LTE:
- $1: without credit
- $30: with $30 credit for 30 days
- $50: with $50 credit for 30 days
They also offer $30-50 starter packs with an expiry of 350 days and combo plan starters.
You can top-up by vouchers, available at many stores, service stations or supermarkets, by debit/credit card (even AmEx) or PayPal online on your Vodafone account.
You will also need to log on to the Vodafone website to activate SIM here. You will need an Australian address to activate the SIM card. You can give an hotel address or any other for it. A Vodafone SIM will stay active for 359 days after the credit has expired before being terminated.
Data feature packs
To their prepaid SIM cards, you can add $30, $40 or $50 recharges after 28 days to get more data. Default use is $2 per MB. To their prepaid SIM cards you can further add these data add-ons:
- $3: 2 GB for 1 day
- $7: 2 GB for 7 days
- $5: 500 MB for 28 days
- $10: 1 GB for 28 days
- $15: 2 GB for 28 days
MyMix
Vodafone introduced a new offer called MyMix for prepaid customers to create their own bundles. Using the MyVodafone application, users can design their own recharge from a menu of different voice, data and international call options, as well as different validity lengths. MyMix offers many possible combinations and can be adjusted each time a customer recharges.
- top-up $10: 500 MB, unlimited natl. calls, unlimited natl. SMS, 50 internal. SMS for 7 days
- top-up $20: 2 GB, unlimited natl. calls, unlimited natl. SMS, 50 internatl. SMS for 10 days
- top-up $30: 2 GB, unlimited natl. calls, unlimited natl. SMS, 50 internatl. SMS for 28 days
- top-up $40: 5 GB, unlimited natl. calls, unlimited natl. SMS, 50 internatl. SMS, 90 internatl. mins for 28 days
- top-up $50: 7.5 GB, unlimited natl. calls, unlimited natl. SMS, 50 internatl. SMS, 90 internatl. mins for 28 days
- top-up $60: 10 GB, unlimited natl. calls, unlimited natl. SMS, 50 internatl. SMS, 120 internatl. mins for 28 days
Data-only SIM
Their data-only product for modems and tablets is called "Mobile Broadband" and has text too, but no voice. The starter SIM pack contains data valid for 30 days. They come in all 3 SIM sizes as:
- SIM-only: $2
- SIM with 4 GB for 30 days: $30
- SIM with 6 GB for 40 days: $40
- SIM with 8 GB for 180 days: $50
Their Mobile Broadband SIM card can be recharged with these packages:
| Volume | Period | Price | Bonus Data |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 30 days | $ 10 | 100 MB |
| 2 GB | 30 days | $ 20 | 200 MB |
| 4 GB | 30 days | $ 30 | 400 MB |
| 6 GB | 40 days | $ 40 | 600 MB |
| 8 GB | 180 days | $ 50 | 800 MB |
| 10 GB | 365 days | $ 60 | 1 GB |
| 25 GB | 365 days | $ 125 | 2.5 GB |
You get 10% bonus data when recharging your Mobile Broadband service online by credit card or PayPal. You can rollover up to 50 GB of unused data to the next month, if you recharge your service before your expiry date. Unused data will be forfeited after 18 months.
More info
- Tethering is supported
- APN: live.vodafone.com
- http://www.vodafone.com.au
ALDI mobile
ALDI mobile is a MVNO of the German-based supermarket chain Aldi using parts of the Telstra network on the 3G and 4G/LTE bands. Aldi mobile claims to have a combined 3G/4G footprint covering 98.5% of the Australian population (92% on 4G). It operates on the Telstra wholesale network, not the full Telstra retail network, which has better coverage in remote areas and claims to cover over 99% of the population. Aldi Mobile coverage is similar to Optus, or even better in some country areas.
Aldi mobile has typical download speeds of between 550 kbps and 3 Mbps on 3G, ranging up to a possible 20 Mbps. Their 4G/LTE is capped at 100 Mbps. If you can live with a downgraded Telstra network, ALDI gives out low rates.
Availability
The SIM is sold in ALDI stores exclusively (Store locator), ask at check out, or online to be sent to an Australian postal address. The starter pack SIM costs $5 and comes with $5 credit. All three sizes are available.
You have to activate the SIM card online here . From activation the SIM card is valid for 365 days, longer than any other SIM card in AU.
You can buy recharge vouchers of $15 or $30 in ALDI stores or top-up online by credit/debit card. To check balance, text 'balance' to 590 or use the app.
Prepaid SIM card
Data is at $0.05 per MB using standard prepaid Pay As You Go credit, valid for 365 days. This is best for low call/no data users, or you can add data and value packs. If using a data/value pack, excess data is also charged at 5c per MB until all Pay As You Go credit is used.
Data feature packs
To any prepaid SIM cards you can add data-only packages or "value packs" with data, texts and voice:
- Data Packs valid for 30 or 90 days
- 1.5 GB: $15, 30 days
- 4 GB: $30, 30 days
- 6 GB: $50, 90 days
- Value Packs valid for 30 days each, all come with unlimited free calls and texts from ALDI to ALDI mobiles:
- S: $15 with 500 MB, 250 AU minutes, unlimited AU texts
- M: $20 with 1.5 GB, 750 AU minutes, unlimited AU texts
- L: $25 with 2 GB, Unlimited AU calls & texts, 100 mins international
- XL: $35 with 6 GB, Unlimited AU calls & texts, 200 mins international
- XXL: $45 with 8 GB, Unlimited AU calls & texts, 300 mins international
International calls on L, XL and XXL plans available to these countries
You can purchase a data add-on for Value Packs - 1 GB extra data for $10. It expires at the end of your Value Pack. The Value Pack can be added to a prepaid plan, it cannot be added if you have a Data Pack. If you add a Value Pack whilst you have a Data Pack, you will forfeit the Data Pack and any remaining data. Data rolls over once to the next month on the L, XL and XXL value packs, if you top-up before.
More info
- App for iOS and Android available in App Store and Play Store
- APN: mdata.net.au
- Website: http://www.aldimobile.com.au
amaysim
Amaysim is a MVNO using the Optus network in 3G and now their 4G/LTE network too.
Availabilty
Their starter pack is available at: 7-Eleven, allphones, BIG W, BP, Caltex, Co-op Bookshop, Coles, Coles Express, DickSmith, Harvey Norman, Kmart, NewsLink, Officeworks, On the Run, Post Offices, Supanews, United, Woolworths (Store locator) and many sales points more. It costs $2 without credit.
Online the SIM costs $5 and comes with $5 credit, valid for 90 days. When you buy an amaysim SIM card online or pick one up in-store, by default you’ll get one of the triple-punch SIM Cards.
Activation works online and they accept all major credit cards. Hotel addresses for registration are accepted too.
Prepaid SIM card
They offer different plans for prepaid on 4G/LTE too.
- AS YOU GO: no base rate, default data at 7.2c/MB. You can add any data pack mentioned below.
- FLEXI: $19.90, auto-renews every 30 days with 500 MB, excess 7.2c/MB. For more data, add a pack (see below).
- UNLIMITED: unlimited domestic texts and calls and
- 1.5 GB of data: $24.90
- 3 GB of data: $29.90
- 7 GB of data: $44.90
- 9 GB of data: $49.90
It auto-renews every 28 days. Overuse is charged at pay as you go rate.
Data feature packs
These data packages can be added to all three products lines (except the UNLIMITED PLANS) for 4G/LTE too:
- $ 9.90: 1 GB for 30 days
- $ 19.90: 2.5 GB for 30 days
- $ 29.90: 4 GB for 30 days
- $ 99.90: 10 GB for 365 days
Excess is charged at the pay as you go rate.
More info
- Tethering is now allowed without surcharges
- APN: internet
- Website: http://www.amaysim.com.au
boost Mobile
Boost Mobile is using the Telstra network in 3G since 2013, when it migrated from Optus network. In 2015 they were the first Telstra MVNO to open 4G/LTE to their prepaid customers. Boost is the only Telstra reseller to have access to full, unrestricted coverage on the Telstra network. but doesn't have access to Telstra's full 4GX (Advanced) data speeds.
Avaliability
Buy a SIM starter kit for $2 without credit or for $40 with the same plan included from their outlets (Locate store). Or online in all three SIM sizes to be sent to an Australian postal address.
You can recharge by vouchers, sold in their stores or online by credit card or PayPal. You need to activate it online here with an Australian Driver's Licence or Learner's Permit, a Medicare card, an Australian passport or an international passport with valid Australian visa.
Prepaid SIM card
All of their prepaid plans include unlimited calls and texts in AU and data on 4G/LTE:
- $10 UNLTD+: Unlimited voice and text, 1 GB data, for 7 days only
- $30 UNLTD+: Unlimited voice and text, 3 GB data + 1 GB extra every weekend, for 28 days only
- $40 UNLTD+: Unlimited voice and text, 5 GB data + 1 GB extra every weekend, for 28 days only
- $50 UNLTD+: Unlimited voice and text, 7 GB data + 1 GB extra every weekend, for 28 days only
On $40 and $50 plans only, unlimited calls to 10 Countries: Canada, China, Hong Kong, India, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, United Kingdom and USA. For international call on other plans and calls to other countries, you have to purchase a $15 bolt-on, which also provides extra data at 10c per MB, call diversion and international roaming.
More info
- APN: telstra.wap
- Website: http://boost.com.au
Coles Prepaid (Coles Mobile)
Similar to Woolworths, the other leading retailer Coles started its brand in 2015 as a MVNO on the 3G Optus network. It has a slightly lower coverage than Telstra, but offers 4G/LTE on top.
Availability
The starter is sold for $2 exclusively at any Coles supermarket or Coles Express store in the country. The $2 has no credit pre-loaded. You need to activate the SIM online giving passport and visa data. The process takes 15 minutes to 4 hours.
You can recharge by using vouchers sold at Coles or online by credit card or PayPal. To check balance, text 'BAL' to 9999.
Prepaid SIM card
You can choose between three plans, which can be changed by texting "MENU" to 9999:
- $ 10: 1 GB, unlimited AU talk and text for 10 days
- $ 20: 2 GB, unlimited AU text and calls for 28 days
- $ 40: 5 GB, unlimited AU text and calls for 28 days
To all plans, this only data add-on can be added:
- $5: 500 MB data to be used within 7 days
Beyond, their default rate of 12c per MB applies.
More info
- APN: internet
- Website: http://www.coles.com.au/our-range/our-products/coles-mobile
dodo
Dodo is an Australian multi-media organization focusing on triple-play. It sells SIM cards as a MVNO on the Optus network in 3G and 4G/LTE too. But up to now, 4G is only available for contract customers, not for prepaid.
Availability
You can buy their SIM cards in many stores: where-can-i-buy for $2. You need to activate the SIM on their website.
Recharges are possible on the same website by credit card: Visa, Mastercard, AmEx and even Diners are accepted. Recharges are from $10 for 60 days validity to $100 with 1 year's validity.
Prepaid SIM card
Data on their only prepaid SIM stays at 5c per MB. They offer three packages valid for 30 days to be added:
- $ 10: 1 GB
- $ 25: 3 GB
- $ 40: 5 GB
Data-only SIM
They also offer a prepaid data-SIM which is on 3G up to HDSPA. These starter packs are sold:
- SIM-only: for free
- $ 40: 3G USB dongle and 3 GB included
You can top-up their data-only SIM with these packs:
- $ 10: 300 MB for 30 days
- $ 20: 1 GB for 60 days
- $ 40: 3 GB for 60 days
- $ 70: 6 GB for 90 days
- $ 99: 10 GB for 180 days
- $ 139: 15 GB for 365 days
Absolute data transfer usage limit of 10 GB applies per calendar month. SMS service is not available for prepaid wireless broadband accounts.
More info
- Tethering seems to be not available for the iPhone
- APN: internet
- Website: http://www.dodo.com/
gotalk
Gotalk is a MVNO on the network of Vodafone in (2G and) 3G. From 2016 4G/LTE is available for gotalk customers too.
Availability
Gotalk mobile SIM cards and recharge vouchers are available from many retail outlets throughout Australia. They can also be purchased on the this website. Alternatively, call 1800 GOTALK (1800 468 255) to find your nearest retailer.
You need to activate your SIM card here: activate. You can top up online with credit cards (Visa, Master, AmEx), PayPal or voucher.
Their voice & data prepaid SIM cards are not a good deal, as they always stay at the default rate of 5c per MB without any bundles available.
Data-only SIM
Their prepaid data-only SIM is called BYO Wireless Broadband and comes in 2 starter packs:
- $15: with 1 GB for 30 days
- $20: with 2 GB for 30 days
Their data-only SIM can be topped up with these packages, all valid for 30 days and on 4G too:
- $10: 1 GB
- $15: 2 GB
- $20: 2.5 GB
- $30: 3 GB
- $50: 5 GB
Recharge online, in-store or via phone.
More info
- APN for broadband SIM: purtona.net
- Website: http://www.gotalk.com.au
Hello Mobile
Hello Mobile is another MVNO on the (2G and) 3G network of Vodafone. From 2016 4G/LTE has been available for Hello Mobile customers.
Availability
Hello Mobile SIM cards and recharge vouchers are available from many retail outlets throughout Australia find a store or bought online here to be shipped to an Australian postal address.
You need to activate your SIM card here. You can top up online by credit card (Visa and MasterCard only) or a voucher from a store from $10 to 100. As with gotalk, their voice prepaid SIM cards are not that interesting, as they either stay at 5c/MB with no bundles available or include data with lots of AU minutes or texts.
Data-only SIM
Their prepaid data-only starter kit is available in all three SIM sizes:
- $ 10: with 500 MB for 30 days
- $ 20: with 1 GB for 30 days
- $ 30: with 2 GB for 30 days
Their data-only SIM can be topped up online with these packages, all valid for 30 days:
- 500 MB: $5
- 1 GB: $10
- 2 GB: $15
More info
- APN: vfinternet.au
- Website: http://www.hellomobile.com.au
Lebara mobile
Lebara mobile in Australia has been using the Vodafone network in (2G,) 3G and 4G/LTE as a MVNO. In 2016 it was acquired by Vodafone. They want to retain Lebara as a separate entity as well as maintaining the MVNO’s existing customer service channels now as a subsidiary of Vodafone.
Availabilty
Starter packs are available at 7-Eleven, allphones, BP, Coles, Coles express, DickSmith, Harvey Norman, Kmart, Newsagent, NewsLink, Officeworks, On the Run, post offices, Ritchies, TeleChoice, United, Woolworths (storefinder) for $2 or online for free to be shipped to an Australian postal address.
SIM card comes without balance either as mini/micro or nano size. It needs to be activated online here: activation. Only Australian IDs are shown as options, but most internatl. credit cards are accepted too as reference.
You can recharge either by voucher or credit card online. For the first 3 recharges, you will get a $1 bonus each.
Prepaid SIM card
Lebara has these 5 base plans for prepaid:
- Standard Plan: no base rate, data by default is 10c per MB
- Mini Mega Plan: $24.90 / 30 days - 1.5 GB, free Lebara calls, credit can be used for voice, text
- National Plan: $29.90 / 30 days - 5 GB, unlimited voice and text
- Mega Plan: $39.90 / 30 days - 7 GB, unlimited voice and text
- Unlimited Plan: $49.90 / 30 days - 10 GB, unlimited national and international voice (to selected countries), $5 internatl. call credit
Data feature packs
These data packages can be booked on any prepaid plan:
- $ 5: 250 MB, activation: "DATA5"
- $ 10: 1.5 GB, activation "DATA10"
- $ 25: 5 GB, activation: "DATA25"
For activation, text code to 126 172. Data packs are valid for 30 days from application (with day one being the application date) or until the data has been consumed, whichever occurs first.
If the expiry date of the data pack after recharge is later than the current main balance expiry date, the main balance expire date will be extended so that they are consistent. If customer has multiple data allowances available (including from bundle plans), data will be consumed in the order of purchase; with the exception that included data from non-current bundle plans will only become available once the current plan expires.
More info
- APN: purtona.net
- Website: http://www.lebara.com.au
Lycamobile
Lycamobile from Britain is using the Telstra network in 3G only as a MVNO. In 2016 they added 4G/LTE access. The new deal means that Lycamobile’s expanded service will provide a 4G/LTE coverage footprint of 95% of population and a combined 4G/LTE and 3G coverage footprint of 98.8%,
Availability
Their starter pack is available in many stores nationwide for $2 or for free on their website here to be shipped to an Australian postal address. It's sold in all three sizes.
You need to activate your SIM card online here. Recharges can be made online by credit card on their website here for $10, $20, $30 or $50 or at their sales outlets.
Prepaid SIM card
Lycamobile offers free voice calls amongst their AU customers. Calls to any Lycamobile numbers in Australia are unlimited. Customer must recharge by a minimum of $10 during each calendar month and should have a minimum account balance of $0.01 to be eligible for making calls. If customer not recharge within the same calendar month, still can enjoy the free call for the first 15 minutes with a flagfall of 29c per call (standard rate of 15c/min will apply afterwards).
Plans with data
Default data is 5c per MB. On Lycamobile you may or may not be on a plan. These plans with data are valid for 28 days each:
- $19.90: 1 GB and 500 AU mins and 500 AU texts. Activation: *139*519#
- $24.90: 3 GB and unlimited AU mins and AU texts: Activation: *139*524#
- $29.90: 5 GB and unlimited calls to AU and 10 countries and AU texts. Activation: *139*529#
- $39.90: 9 GB and unlimited calls to AU and 10 countries and AU texts. Activation: *139*539#
- $44.90: 9 GB and unlimited calls to AU and 40 countries and AU texts. Activation: *139*544#
- $49.90: 12 GB and unlimited calls to AU and 40 countries and AU texts. Activation: *139*549#
Data feature packs
For data, you can add these packages for 30 days:
|
Data |
Price |
Activation |
|---|---|---|
| 250 MB | $ 5 | 3013 |
| 1 GB | $ 10 | 3020 |
| 3 GB | $ 25 | 3030 |
Activation by texting the code to 3535. Data is charged per MB. Excess data usage beyond data bundle allowance is charged at 5c/MB. All plans auto-renew. To stop, type *190# and follow instructions. Very important not to forget to cancel auto-renew, otherwise your credit card will be charged automatically (they save your credit card).
More info
- Lycamobile actively blocks tethering
- APN: data.lycamobile.com.au
- Website: http://www.lycamobile.com.au
Virgin mobile
Virgin mobile is a MVNO on the Optus network in 3G and 4G/LTE too, that is now open for prepaid.
Availability
Starter packs are available at their stores (store locator) or online on their website to be shipped to an Australian address for $2. You need to activate your service online here
You need at least a 1c balance to use your service (apart from calling 1800 numbers) and they may cancel it if you don’t recharge within 180 days after your value expires.
You can recharge online on their website by credit card or voucher: $19, $29, $49, $79 or $99. All recharges have a 28 day expiry and translate into a package.
Prepaid SIM card
Call 275 and press '2' to enable 4G on your service. Every recharge translates on their Plus plan into a data allowance: a recharge of $19 gives 500 MB bonus, $29 2 GB, $49 5 GB, $79 8 GB and $99 10 GB, all valid for 28 days. You can roll over up to 12 GB data when you recharge Prepaid Plus before expiry.
Default rate is on APN VirginInternet (3G-only) at $2.05 per MB, on YesInternet (3G/4G) at $0.12 per MB. These two data add-ons, valid for 30 days can be activated:
- $ 5: 50 MB
- $ 10: 300 MB
Data-only SIM
This prepaid SIM called "Mobile Broadband" is intended for tablets and modems and on 4G/LTE too. The starter pack as SIM-only is sold for $99 with 10 GB included valid for 365 days. A 4G WiFi modem (mifi) can be bought for $ 199 with 4 GB included valid for 30 days. You can add these packages:
| Volume | Period | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 400 MB | 15 days | $ 15 |
| 750 MB | 30 days | $ 19 |
| 2 GB | 30 days | $ 29 |
| 4 GB | 45 days | $ 49 |
| 8 GB | 180 days | $ 99 |
| 12 GB | 365 days | $ 149 |
| 18 GB | 365 days | $ 199 |
More info
- Tethering is not supported on prepaid. It won't work on the iPhone, but on Android devices it will.
- APN for 3G/4G devices: YESINTERNET
- APN for 3G-only devices: VirginInternet
- APN for data-only SIM: VirginBroadband
- Website: http://www.virginmobile.com.au
Woolworths Connect
In 2015 the two leading retailers in the country started their prepaid offers. Woolworths (locally known as "Woolies") has a MVNO using Telstra's 3G network and now on 4G/LTE too.
Availability
Their starter packs are exclusively sold at Woolworths, Big W and Caltex service stations for $2 without credit, for $30 with 4 GB included or $45 with 10 GB in all three sizes. You need to activate your SIM card online giving passport and visa data. You can recharge using vouchers sold at Woolworths or online by credit card.
Prepaid SIM card
Save 10% if you use a Woolworths Rewards Card - free to apply for one
For top-ups these 30 days allowances are offered:
- for $ 20: 400 MB and $15 call credit
- for $ 30: 3 GB (+1GB bonus for 3 recharges), unlimited AU calls and AU texts
- for $ 40: 8 GB, (+2GB bonus for 3 recharges) unlimited AU calls and AU texts
- data will be shut off, when used up. These add-ons for 30 days are sold:
- $ 5: 250 MB
- $ 7.50: 500 MB
- $ 10: 1 GB
- $ 25: 3 GB
Data-only SIM
Aimed at tablets and routers, Woolworths sells a data-only SIM called Mobile Broadband without voice and text for $2. There are no data outside of these three packages offered:
- $ 14.90: 1.25 GB for 15 days
- $ 19.90: 2 GB for 30 days
- $ 29.90: 3 GB for 30 days
- $ 34.90: 4 GB for 30 days
- $ 69.90: 10 GB for 180 days
More info
- APN: mdata.net.au
- Website: http://www.woolworthsconnect.com.au
Yomojo Mobile (previously Yatango)
Yatango used to be a MVNO in 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE on the Optus network. In 2015 they declared bankrupcy. Their customers were taken over by the new MVNO Yomojo Mobile that works on the same network. But so far this new operator doesn't seem to built up an offline distribution system in shops. As an online-only operator they remain unsuitable for travellers. That's why they can't be listed here, even they give good rates.
- more info on their website: https://yomojo.com.au/