Mobile Providers
Browse mobile providers and their plans across different networks.
Belong
Telstra 
Boost
Telstra 
JB Hi-Fi Mobile
Telstra 
Telstra
Telstra 
The Good Guys
Telstra Provider Types Explained
Network Providers
Network providers own and operate their own mobile network infrastructure, including towers and base stations. In Australia, the three major network providers are:
- Telstra - Australia's largest telecommunications company with the most extensive network coverage
- Optus - The second-largest provider with strong coverage in metropolitan and regional areas
- Vodafone - The third major network with competitive pricing and good urban coverage
Network providers typically offer a wide range of plans and often include additional benefits like entertainment subscriptions, international roaming options, and loyalty programs.
Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs)
MVNOs are providers that don't own their own network infrastructure. Instead, they purchase wholesale access to one of the major networks and resell services to consumers.
Benefits of choosing an MVNO often include:
- Lower prices - MVNOs typically offer more competitive pricing
- Flexible plans - Many MVNOs specialize in no-contract or prepaid options
- Niche offerings - Some MVNOs target specific customer segments with tailored plans
While MVNOs use the same networks as the major providers, they may have different terms of access, potentially affecting coverage, speed, or priority during network congestion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the right mobile provider depends on several factors:
- Coverage - Check which providers offer good coverage in the areas where you'll use your phone most
- Price - Consider your budget and look for plans that offer good value for the features you need
- Data needs - Assess how much data you typically use and choose a plan that provides enough
- Contract terms - Decide whether you prefer the flexibility of no-contract plans or the potential benefits of a contract
- Additional features - Consider extras like international calling, entertainment subscriptions, or data rollover
Use our comparison tools to filter plans based on these criteria and find the best match for your needs.
MVNOs use the same physical networks as the major providers, so in terms of coverage and basic service, they are generally reliable. However, there are some differences to consider:
- During network congestion, traffic from the host network's direct customers might be prioritized over MVNO customers
- Customer service quality can vary significantly between providers
- MVNOs might not offer the same range of services or the latest technologies (like 5G) immediately
Many consumers find that MVNOs offer excellent value and reliability for everyday use, especially if you're primarily looking for good coverage at a competitive price.
Yes, you can keep your existing phone number when switching between mobile providers in Australia. This process is called "porting" and is protected by regulations that ensure consumers can retain their numbers.
To port your number:
- Sign up for a plan with your new provider
- Request to port your existing number during the sign-up process
- Provide the account details from your current provider
- Your new provider will handle the porting process
The porting process typically takes a few hours but can sometimes take up to a day. During this time, you might experience a brief service interruption when the number is being transferred.
Prepaid plans require you to pay for your service in advance. Key characteristics include:
- No bill shock - you can only use what you've paid for
- No credit checks required
- Greater flexibility - can change or stop service without penalties
- Need to manually recharge when credit runs out
Postpaid plans bill you after you've used the service. Key characteristics include:
- Monthly billing - pay for service after you've used it
- Often require credit checks
- May include contracts with early termination fees
- Typically offer more included features and better value for heavy users
- Risk of bill shock if you exceed your plan's limits
The best choice depends on your usage patterns, budget management preferences, and whether you value flexibility or additional included features.