WhistleOut spokesman Kenny McGilvary provides a step-by-step process for changing mobile providers and keeping your number.
Telstra’s fine this month for failing to let customers keep their number when switching to other mobile phone providers has shone a spotlight on an issue that confuses many consumers.
Worrying about not keeping their number is one of the biggest barriers stopping people switching, according to telecommunications comparison website Whistleout.com.au.
Whistleout spokesman Kenny McGilvary says switching telcos and keeping your number is a simple process, but there are a few important steps.
"First of all, don’t cancel your existing mobile service,"
“If you do then you won’t be able to port your existing number – your new telco will take care of the transfer and cancellation for you."
“During the sign up process you’ll be asked whether you want to port or transfer your existing number to the new account,"
“All you’ll need to do is put in your phone number and specify your current provider."
Joel Gibson is working with WhistleOut as our 'Savings Specialist'. Joel regularly shares his cost-saving tips and tricks on national news and radio, and now he's bringing his no-nonsense strategies directly to you through WhistleOut. Joel's column will expand our commitment to your financial well-being, covering areas beyond telco where you can cut costs, save money, and make more informed choices.
WhistleOut compares a wide range of the mobile phone and internet plans in the market, with an easy to use interface to help every Australian choose the best option for their needs.
Whether it is a cheap prepaid SIM, or a brand new iphone on a plan, WhistleOut's unique engine searches the market and standardises all the complexity into an easy to use comparison table with accurate prices for every situation.
Kenny McGilvary is our Media Contact, based in Sydney. Our team works with journalists to provide expert commentary and data related to mobile phones, internet and PayTV. We have team members with experience offering commentary for TV, radio and online. If you are a member of the media and would like to talk, please get in touch with Kenny.