| Category | Provider | Data | Price From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best prepaid mobile phone plan | TPG | 50GB | $17.50/mth |
| Best SIM-only mobile phone plan | Moose | 40GB | $20.80/mth |
| Best iPhone mobile plan | Vodafone | 50GB | $100.36/mth |
| Best Samsung Galaxy mobile plan | Optus | 50GB | $99.18/mth |
| Best mobile phone plan with international calls | TPG | 50GB | $17.50/mth |
| Best mobile phone plan for kids | Catch Connect |
15GB | $20/mth |
| Best data-only mobile plan | Vodafone |
60GB | $20/mth |
Pricing refers to the minimum total cost for the first month.
When it comes to mobile phone plans the word "best" means different things to different people. Some would say the best plan is the cheapest plan. Others would say the best is the one with the most data. Then there are plans with phones to consider.
To help you find what you're looking for, the WhistleOut team has split our database into seven search categories so that you can zero in on the features and pricing that meet your needs. When picking the best mobile plans, we look at factors like pricing over 12 months, data allowance, and extra perks like bundling discounts, international calling, and roaming options.
Check out our picks for Australia's best mobile phone plans below.
Best prepaid mobile phone plan
|
TPG
Editor's Pick
50GB Medium Plan
$17.50
Per 1 Month Renewal
|
How we chose this phone plan:
- At least 30GB of data
- One-month expiry
- Unlimited talk and text
TPG's 50GB Medium Plan is our pick for the best prepaid plan for heavy use this month. With its current promo, you'll get 50% off for six months - that's 50GB of data for only $17.50.
WhistleOut Managing Editor Alex Choros added: "TPG prepaid mobile plans have consistently represented good value, thanks to the initial discount. 50% off is nothing to scoff at. Even when the discount runs out, customers who have both a TPG mobile plan and a TPG internet plan are still able to get further savings on most mobile plans after their initial discount runs out. In the case of this plan, TPG internet customers will still save $5 per month after the initial six months."
On the other hand, if this plan doesn't suit your needs, there are plenty more to choose from. See how it compares to these popular prepaid plans with at least 30GB:
|
#1
|
TPG
100GB Large Plan
$22.50
Per 1 Month Renewal
|
|
#2
|
felix mobile
Editor's Pick
felix 50GB Mobile Plan
$30
Per 1 Month Renewal
|
|
#3
|
iiNet
100GB Large Plan
$22.50
Per 1 Month Renewal
|
|
#4
|
Optus
Optus Prepaid $35 SIM
$35
Per 28 Day Renewal
|
|
#5
|
Boost Mobile
$39 Prepaid
$39
Per 28 Day Renewal
|
Keep up to date with the latest prepaid phone plan deals on our Editor's Pick comparison page or if you're looking to travel to Australia our best prepaid plans for travellers in Australia.
Best SIM-only mobile phone plan
|
Moose Mobile
Editor's Pick
Moose 26.80 SIM Only
$12.40/mth
Min. cost $12.40
Link not supplied
|
How we chose this phone plan:
- At least 30GB of data
- No contract
- Value for money
Moose Mobile's 20.80 SIM-only promo plan is our pick for the best heavy-use postpaid SIM-only plan this month. With Moose Mobile's current deal, you'll save $10 per month on the first six months - that's 40GB for only $20.80 per month. You'll pay $30.80 per month when the initial discount runs out. This deal runs until October 31.
WhistleOut Managing Editor Alex Choros added: "Moose Mobile plans have consistently represented great bang-for-buck, with the telco taking home the gong for best value SIM-only plan provider in the 2024 WhistleOut Awards."
Or if this plan doesn't suit you, see how it compares to these popular alternatives, each with at least 30GB of data:
|
#1
|
Dodo
Editor's Pick
$28 Mobile Plan
$28/mth
Min. cost $14
|
|
#2
|
Optus
$55 Optus Choice Plus Plan
$55/mth
Min. cost $55
|
|
#3
|
Vodafone
$49 Small SIM Only Plan
$39/mth
Min. cost $39
|
|
#4
|
Belong
100GB Mobile Plan
$45/mth
Min. cost $45
|
|
#5
|
Tangerine Telecom
50GB 5G Mobile SIM
$40/mth
Min. cost $40
|
For even more options, check out our monthly roundup of the best SIM-only phone plans.
Best iPhone mobile plan
|
Vodafone
$49 Small Plan
$77.85/mth
Min. cost $1,737.84
|
How we chose this mobile phone plan:
- One of the cheapest iPhone 15 Pro plans with at least 30GB per month
- 36-month pricing
- Plans with 5G
If you are looking to get your hands on an iPhone 15 Pro on a mobile plan, this deal from Vodafone is the best you can get right now. You'll currently get 50GB of data every month, as well as unlimited local talk and text. If you go over your allowance, you'll get unlimited data at slower speeds of 2Mbps.
If you sign up before December 1, you'll get free months of free Binge.
Or if you fancy some alternatives, see how this plan compares to Telstra and Vodafone:
iPhone 15 Pro 128GB Plans
|
#1
|
Vodafone
$49 Small Plan
$77.85/mth
Min. cost $1,737.84
|
|
#2
|
Vodafone
$59 Medium Plan
$87.85/mth
Min. cost $1,747.84
|
|
#3
|
Vodafone
$69 Large Plan
$97.85/mth
Min. cost $1,757.84
|
|
#4
|
Telstra
$65 Basic Upfront Mobile Plan
$112.19/mth
Min. cost $1,763.84
Link not supplied
|
If you want a cheaper iPhone, here's a look at the cheapest iPhone 15 plans on a 36-month term:
iPhone 15 128GB Plans
|
#1
|
Vodafone
$49 Small Plan
$73.69/mth
Min. cost $1,287.84
|
|
#2
|
Vodafone
$59 Medium Plan
$83.69/mth
Min. cost $1,297.84
|
|
#3
|
Optus
$55 Optus Choice Plus Plan
$89.68/mth
Min. cost $1,303.48
|
|
#4
|
Vodafone
$69 Large Plan
$93.69/mth
Min. cost $1,307.84
|
|
#5
|
Optus
$65 Optus Choice Plus Plan
$99.68/mth
Min. cost $1,313.48
|
|
#6
|
Telstra
$65 Basic Upfront Mobile Plan
$99.69/mth
Min. cost $1,313.84
Link not supplied
|
If you are looking for a different iPhone read our full guide Editor's Pick: Best iPhone Plans. Just be aware that the iPhone 16 is right around the corner.
Best Samsung Galaxy mobile plan
|
Optus
$55 Optus Choice Plus Plan
$116.08/mth
Min. cost $2,253.88
|
How we chose this mobile phone plan:
- One of the cheapest Galaxy S24 Ultra plans with at least 30GB
- 36-month pricing
- Plans with 5G
Looking to get the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra on a mobile plan? Optus has one of the best value 5G mobile plan options on a 36-month device repayment term. This plan is free from excess data charges. If you reach your data allowance, you'll get unlimited data capped to speeds of 1.5Mbps to last the rest of the billing month.
With Optus' current deal, you can save $500 off the Galaxy S24 Ultra's asking price. This works out to be a $13.89 per month discount on a 36-month repayment term. This deal runs until September 25.
See how Optus' plan compares to Telstra and Vodafone below:
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 256GB Plans
|
#1
|
Optus
$55 Optus Choice Plus Plan
$116.08/mth
Min. cost $2,253.88
|
|
#2
|
Optus
$65 Optus Choice Plus Plan
$126.08/mth
Min. cost $2,263.88
|
|
#3
|
Telstra
$65 Basic Upfront Mobile Plan
$126.08/mth
Min. cost $2,263.88
Link not supplied
|
|
#4
|
Optus
$79 Optus Promo Plan
$130.08/mth
Min. cost $2,267.88
|
|
#5
|
Optus
$85 Optus Choice Plus Plan
$146.08/mth
Min. cost $2,283.88
|
Or if you're looking for a cheaper model, here's a look at the cheapest 36-month Galaxy S24 plans:
Samsung Galaxy S24 256GB Plans
|
Telstra
$65 Basic Upfront Mobile Plan
$99.69/mth
Min. cost $1,313.84
Link not supplied
|
Best mobile phone plan with international calls
|
TPG
Editor's Pick
50GB Medium Plan
$17.50
Per 1 Month Renewal
|
How we chose this mobile phone plan:
- Can call UK, NZ, USA, Canada, China, Hong Kong, India, Vietnam, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia.
- Unlimited talk and text to Australian numbers
- At least 15GB data
TPG's 50GB Medium plan is a superb all-rounder as you get unlimited international calls and text to 31 destinations, on top of unlimited local talk and text. With its current promotion, you'll get 50% off for the first six months - that's 50GB for $17.50!
If this plan doesn't suit your needs, here are some more popular plans with some international calls included:
|
#1
|
TPG
Editor's Pick
25GB Small Plan
$12.50
Per 1 Month Renewal
|
|
#2
|
iiNet
25GB Small Plan
$12.50
Per 1 Month Renewal
|
|
#3
|
Dodo
Editor's Pick
$28 Mobile Plan
$28/mth
Min. cost $14
|
|
#4
|
Tangerine Telecom
25GB 5G Mobile SIM
$29/mth
Min. cost $29
|
|
#5
|
Lebara Mobile
$24.90 Small Plan
$24.90
Per 30 Day Renewal
|
We keep tabs on all the major plans with international calls included, so check back whenever you want to find the best mobile phone plans for calling overseas.
Best mobile phone plan for kids
|
Catch Connect
28 Day Plan - 15GB
$20
Per 28 Day Renewal
Link not supplied
|
How we chose this mobile phone plan:
- Prepaid
- Unlimited talk and text
Catch Connect's 15GB plan is a great option for kids, billed at $20 per 28-day recharge. With its current promo, you'll get 10GB bonus data for the first 12 recharges – that's 25GB for only $20, valid until September 24.
Or if you prefer to check out some alternatives, compare this plan to other popular options from our database:
|
#1
|
TPG
Editor's Pick
25GB Small Plan
$12.50
Per 1 Month Renewal
|
|
#2
|
iiNet
25GB Small Plan
$12.50
Per 1 Month Renewal
|
|
#3
|
Kogan Mobile
Editor's Pick
Small Monthly Plan
$20
Per 1 Month Renewal
|
|
#4
|
Lebara Mobile
$19.90 Extra Small Plan
$19.90
Per 30 Day Renewal
|
|
#5
|
Catch Connect
28 Day Plan - 15GB
$20
Per 28 Day Renewal
Link not supplied
|
These are our picks for the best phone plans for kids this month, but there are more in our monthly comparison.
Best data-only mobile plan
|
Vodafone
Editor's Pick
Small Data SIM Only Plan
$20/mth
Min. cost $20
Link not supplied
|
How we chose this data-only mobile plan:
- At least 25GB included data
- Best value for money over 12 months
A data-only SIM plan is perfect if you've got a tablet that has a SIM slot or if you're after a new plan to go you with your Pocket WiFI or modem.
This plan from Vodafone gets you 60GB for $20 per month, which should be more than enough data if you're just trying to get your iPad connected. This plan could also be helpful as a backup option in case your NBN goes down. Just note you'll need to bring your own 4G modem.
With Vodafone's current promo, this plan has double data, getting you a total of 60GB instead of the normal 30GB. This offer runs until September 2.
Or if this plan isn't right for you, check out how it compares to the most popular mobile broadband plans in our database with at least 25GB:
|
#1
|
Telstra
Upfront Data Plan Medium
$58/mth
Min. cost $58
Link not supplied
|
|
#2
|
Tangerine Telecom
Editor's Pick
100GB Mobile Broadband Data Plan
$34.90/mth
Min. cost $34.90
Link not supplied
|
|
#3
|
Optus
$30 Prepaid Data Only SIM Starter Kit
$30
Link not supplied
|
|
#4
|
Aussie Broadband
Large Data Only 5G SIM
$35/mth
Min. cost $35
Link not supplied
|
|
#5
|
amaysim
90GB Data Plan
$60
Link not supplied
|
How we choose the best mobile phone plans each month
At WhistleOut, we take the job of recommending our monthly winners and runners-up for the best mobile plans very seriously. That’s why we have a dedicated team that keeps our plan database up to date. They read more than a thousand phone documents each week and spot hundreds of changes each month.
When it comes to the BYO SIM-only mobile plans, we consider a wide array of factors. To start, we only consider plans that are contract-free and have unlimited have unlimited talk and text. We prefer no contract plans, because they make it easier to switch if a better option pops.
Price is naturally very important, and we judge plans based on their first-year value. This is because many mobile plans have a discount that lasts for the first six months, after which they become more expensive. This helps separate actual great pricing from a limited-time promotion that may not offer better value in the long run. For promotional pricing to be considered, it has to last at least six months.
The other big consideration with any phone plan is how much data it comes with. For our best prepaid and best SIM-only plan picks, we've looked at plans with at least 30GB. This should be more than enough data from all but the heaviest users.
Many mobile providers tend to offer similar data allowances at similar price points, which can make it tricky to separate contenders from winners and runners-up. That’s why we also factor in a wide array of plan perks when judging our monthly winners. These include plan features like bundling options, international calls, and roaming options.
For our best iPhone and Galaxy phone plan picks, monthly cost is the main consideration. That's why we prefer 36-month plans. They're cheaper, even if it means paying off your phone over a longer period of time. We also only consider plans with at least 30GB of data. As with SIM-only plans, we also look at perks and extra features to help differentiate winners.
When it comes to phone plans for kids, we ensure that the plans are prepaid, free from a contract, and have unlimited talk and text.
How much data do I need on a mobile plan?
Not everyone has the same mobile data needs, which is why we split our monthly best SIM-only mobile plan picks into everyday plans and big data options.
For everyday SIM-only users, we recommend plans with at least 15GB of monthly data, which we feel is enough to get through a month without counting megabytes. For big data lovers, we suggest at least 30GB. Many plans offer far larger allowances, but you shouldn't pay for more than you're using. There's no point in paying for a 100GB plan if you're only using 10GB each month.
If you're looking at buying a new phone like an iPhone 15 or a Galaxy S24, phone plans from Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone all have at least 30GB. We think these entry-level mobile plans should be enough for most, but they also have larger options. The good news is these plans let you change your data allowance once per month. If you go with a smaller allowance and it turns out you need more, you can always step up the larger plan.
For kids phone plans, you can probably get away with a smaller data allowance, depending on their age.
“There's no point in paying for more data than you're using. While there are plenty of mobile plans that offer 100GB or more, don't be tempted by big numbers. According to the ACCC, the average Aussie on a postpaid mobile plan only uses around 16GB each month. If your usage is similar, paying for more data is just wasting money.
When you're looking for a new mobile plan, work out your current usage, maybe add on a few extra gigabytes so you have a comfortable buffer, and find a plan that matches that.”
Alex Choros, Managing Editor WhistleOut
How to choose the best mobile plan for you
If you're having trouble picking a new plan, here are a few factors you consider when picking the best option for your needs.
If you want a new phone
Do you want a new phone, or are you happy with a SIM-only mobile plan? If you're looking to buy a phone on a plan, you're mostly limited to Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone.
However, if you're happy with your current phone or plan or are planning to buy a new phone outright, you can pick from a much wider range of providers. Smaller providers are powered by the same networks as The Big Three, but often have cheaper plans and better value deals.
Prepaid or postpaid
If you're going with a SIM-only mobile plan, you'll need to pick if you want a postpaid plan or prepaid plan. There's very little difference other than when you pay your bill.
On postpaid mobile plans, you'll get a bill at the end of each month and have two weeks to pay it. On prepaid mobile plans, you'll pay upfront ahead of your month.
It's harder to get stung with excess charges on prepaid plans, which can make them better for kids. Just note that some prepaid plans need to be recharged every 28 days, which means you'll be charged 13 times per year.
Data allowance
You'll want to work out how much data you use each month to find the best mobile plan for you. Sure, there are plenty of plans with 100GB or more, and those might seem like a great safety net on paper. At the same time, there's no point in paying for more data than you're using. The average Australian on a postpaid plan uses 16GB per month, while prepaid customers tend use less than 10GB per month.
Roaming inclusions
If you're a regular international traveller, you'll want a plan with international roaming inclusions that meet your needs. This is especially important if you want to use your Australian number when travelling overseas.
Speed
Many mobile plans now have a maximum download speed, which is often referred to as a speed cap. Common speed caps include 100Mbps, 150Mbps, and 250Mbps. In most cases, a speed cap shouldn't be an issue. 100Mbps is more than enough for the typical mobile user, but some may want to consider a faster plan.
Coverage
Mobile coverage is an important factor, as you need to actually be able to use your new mobile plan where you live, work, and commute. In metro areas, you should be fine with any provider. You may want a provider on the Telstra network if you live in remote areas, however.
Mobile phone plans FAQ
Are there unlimited data mobile plans in Australia?
There are unlimited data mobile plans available in Australia, but they're best thought of plans with no excess charges. In most cases, these plans still have a primary data allowance - 30GB for example. After you go through this, you'll be able to continue using the plan with unlimited data but at a far slower network speed - typically between 1Mbps and 2Mbps. That's still fast enough for basic usage, but won't be the best experience.
|
#1
|
Dodo
$23 Mobile Plan
$23/mth
Min. cost $23
|
|
#2
|
felix mobile
felix 25GB Mobile Plan
$25
Per 1 Month Renewal
|
|
#3
|
Belong
25GB Mobile Plan
$30/mth
Min. cost $30
|
|
#4
|
Vodafone
$49 Small SIM Only Plan
$39/mth
Min. cost $39
|
|
#5
|
Optus
$55 Optus Choice Plus Plan
$55/mth
Min. cost $55
|
|
#6
|
Telstra
$65 Basic Upfront SIM Plan
$65/mth
Min. cost $65
Link not supplied
|
Is prepaid or postpaid better?
If you're opting for a SIM-only phone plan, you'll need to decide whether you want a postpaid plan or prepaid plan. These days, there's very little difference other than when you pay your bill.
On postpaid, you'll get a bill at the end of each month and typically have two weeks to pay it. On prepaid, you'll pay upfront ahead of your month.
Can I keep my number when changing phone plans?
You can always keep your phone number when changing mobile plans. Your right to your phone number is protected by law.
Which provider has the best mobile coverage?
Telstra has the best mobile coverage in Australia, covering 99.6% of the population. Boost Mobile is the only Telstra network provider to have access to the full Telstra network, and as such, also covers 99.6% of the population. Other Telstra-powered providers such as Belong, Everyday Mobile, and ALDI Mobile cover 98.8% of the population. For comparison, Optus covers 98.5% of the population, and Vodafone 96%.
Our Editor's Picks awards are selected by our team of data experts. We may earn a commission if you click on one of the products listed, but a service provider isn't required to have a commercial relationship with us to be eligible for consideration. See here for more information about how we work.
WhistleOut is Australia's telco comparison website, founded to help everyday Aussies find a phone and internet plan that's right for them. As part of our service promise, we're committed to listing plans from at least the top ten providers of mobile plans in the market, but we're currently tracking 31. When we have a commercial relationship with a provider, you'll see a "Go To Site" button that takes you straight to that plan. We still compare plans from providers we don't have a commercial relationship with, but these don't have a button. To keep our listings up to date, we have a dedicated product team that makes around 400 changes to our database each month.
Meet our mobile experts
Alex Choros
Alex Choros is the Managing Editor of WhistleOut Australia and an award-winning journalist. He's been writing about consumer technology for over a decade and is an expert on the Australian telco sector, to the point where he knows far too many phone and internet plans by heart. In addition to leading the WhistleOut editorial team, Alex is responsible for ruining the office Sonos with his troubled taste in music.
Throughout his career as a journalist, Alex has covered international trade shows, spent three years co-hosting a tech show on community radio, and was awarded a highly commended in the Best Reviewer category of the 2018 IT Journalism awards and the 2021 IT Journalism awards. His work contributed to WhistleOut Australia winning the Best Consumer Technology Coverage award in the 2023 IT Journalism Awards.
He has regularly contributed to Gizmodo and Lifehacker, and he often pops up on 2GB and the Money Magazine podcast to talk telco. On weekends, you'll find Alex at a wine bar, on a hike, or in the middle of a mosh pit.
Alex Choros - Managing Editor + Group Reviews Editor | Twitter | Instagram | Threads
Christie Graham
Christie Graham is a tech industry expert and former head copywriter for Harvey Norman's Computers and Tech category. She won a national Newscorp writing competition to review TV shows on Binge, and keeps busy juggling her many hobbies including baking, painting, archery, stargazing, tending to her chickens, training her Border Collie, expanding her Harry Potter replica collection, and making lists (much like this one).
Christie Graham - Digital Content Editor
Dylan Crismale
Dylan Crismale has been writing for over six years working across a variety of Australian publications. He previously worked as a writer at Finder covering energy, internet and mobile plans, and is passionate about finding the best deals to save people money. When he's not behind a desk Dylan loves drawing, working out, and spending time with friends and family.
Dylan Crismale - Digital Content Editor
Alex Angove-Plumb
Alex Angove-Plumb has been in the tech publishing industry since 2010, putting him only a couple of years away from the title of Grizzled Ancient in his chosen profession. He was an original WhistleOut-er before running NBN Co's corporate blog for two years, then moving on to a lengthy stint at CHOICE. Now he's come home to act as a Digital Content Editor.
Over his career, Alex has learned more about phones, telcos, and the NBN than he'd like to admit, and is happy to put his expertise to good use by helping our readers navigate the often-confusing morass of buzzwords that tech marketing can throw your way.
When not shaking his fist at kids these days, you might find Alex tinkering about the house doing arguably destructive DIY, messing with one or both of his cats, or trying just-one-more-run in whatever roguelite he's recently become obsessed with.
Alex Angove-Plumb - Digital Content Editor
Joseph Hanlon
Joe Hanlon has been immersed in mobile phones, plans and the internet for well over a decade, having written for publications like CNET, Tech Radar, Gizmodo, and Lifehacker. He steers the editorial ship and makes sure that we are always serving up the most useful guides and recommendations. If you ever bump into Joe on the street, don't be afraid to ask for a phone recommendation. It's embarrassing how much he enjoys talking about this stuff. He also loves listening to podcasts, so feel free to email Joe with recommendations.
Joseph Hanlon - Editorial Director | Twitter
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