Postpaid Mobile Plans

Compare a range of postpaid mobile phone plans in one place with Savvy. 

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, updated on October 26th, 2023       

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Digital wallets - Mobile Payments Australia

We’ve partnered with Econnex to bring you a range of mobile phone plans to help you compare them.

Postpaid mobile plans are a great option for people who want to use their phone without having to worry about running out of data, calls or texts. If you’re looking for a postpaid mobile plan, Savvy can help.

Our free online comparison service allows you to compare a range of plans and providers to help you find a postpaid mobile plan that suits your needs. Start comparing plans with us today!

What is a postpaid mobile plan?

A postpaid mobile plan is a type of mobile phone plan where you pay for your service at the end of the month, based on your usage. This is in contrast to prepaid mobile plans, where you pay for your service in advance.

Other features of postpaid mobile plans include:

  • Flexibility: postpaid plans typically offer a high degree of flexibility. For example, you may be able to change your plan each month, add or remove features or extend your contract.
  • Data allowance: postpaid plans typically have a generous data allowance. This can be important if you use a lot of data each month for activities such as streaming video, gaming or browsing the web.
  • Calls and texts: many postpaid mobile plans include unlimited calls and texts. This means that you can make and receive as many calls and texts as you want without having to worry about running out of minutes or messages – though it is important to check the plan’s terms and conditions to find out your specific allowance.
  • Extras: postpaid plans often include additional features such as voicemail, international calling and roaming. These may be included in the base price of the plan or may be available as add-ons.
  • Contracts: postpaid plans typically require a contract. The length of the contract can vary from a few months to a few years. Note that if you cancel your plan before the contract term is over, you may be charged an early termination fee.
  • Excess usage charges: if you exceed your data limit on a postpaid mobile plan, you may be charged additional fees. The amount of the fee will vary depending on the plan and the provider. Some providers may offer you the option to purchase additional data at a discounted rate, while others may charge you a per-gigabyte fee.

What is the difference between postpaid and prepaid mobile phone plans?

Postpaid and prepaid mobile phone plans are two distinct types of mobile service offerings, each with its own set of features and payment structures. Here are the key differences between them:

Postpaid Prepaid
Payment structure
Users are billed for their usage at the end of each billing cycle (usually monthly). This means you use the service first and then pay for it.
Users must pay for services in advance. You purchase a specific amount of credit (or a “recharge”) and use it until it’s depleted.
Price
Typically more expensive than prepaid plans because they offer more features and benefits.
Generally cheaper than postpaid plans.
Data allowance
Generally offers more data than prepaid plans.
Plans may provide less data than postpaid plans.
Text and call allowance
Typically offers unlimited calls and texts.
May have limited call and text allowances, though some prepaid plans also offer unlimited calls and texts.
Contract
Typically requires a contract, which often has a fixed term (e.g. 12 or 24 months).
Does not usually require a contract. Users usually have the flexibility to switch plans or providers without penalty.
Credit check
Typically requires a credit check before approval. This is to assess your creditworthiness and determine if you can be trusted to pay your bills.
Does not typically require a credit check, making the plans more accessible to a wider range of customers.
Excess usage
Users can exceed the allocated limits for calls, texts and data, but any excess usage is billed in the following month.
Once you’ve used up your credit, you need to recharge to continue using the service.
Additional services
Often comes with a wide range of additional services like international roaming or bundled content (e.g. streaming services).
While many plans include extras, they are generally more limited.

How do I choose the right postpaid mobile plan for me?

To choose the best postpaid plan for you in Australia, you need to consider your individual needs. Here are a few things to think about:

  • Data usage: how much data do you use each month? If you are a heavy data user, you will need a plan with a high data allowance. If you are a light data user, you can save money by choosing a plan with a lower data allowance.
  • Call and text usage: how many calls and texts do you make and receive each month? If you are a heavy user of calls and texts, you will need a plan with unlimited calls and texts. If you are a light user of calls and texts, you can save money by choosing a plan with a limited call and text allowance.
  • Coverage and network quality: make sure the provider you’re considering offers reliable coverage in the areas where you spend the most time (home, work, etc.). Check online coverage maps and read reviews if needed.
  • Additional features: what features are important to you? Some postpaid plans include additional features such as voicemail, international calling and roaming. If you need these features, make sure to choose a plan that includes them.
  • Budget: how much can you afford to spend on a mobile phone plan? Postpaid plans can range in price from a few dollars per month to over a hundred dollars per month. It is important to choose a plan that fits your budget – though keep in mind that the cheapest postpaid mobile plan may not necessarily be the best for you.
  • Compare: research different providers and their postpaid plans. Look for competitive pricing, data allowances, additional services and any special offers.

Pros and cons of postpaid mobile plans

PROS

More data and features

Postpaid plans typically offer more data and features than prepaid plans, such as as roaming and streaming services.

Convenience

With postpaid plans, you don't need to worry about constantly recharging your account, allowing you to use services seamlessly.

Device financing

Postpaid plans often offer the option to bundle a mobile device with the plan, allowing users to spread the cost of a new phone over the term of the contract.

CONS

More expensive

Postpaid plans are typically more expensive than prepaid plans. This is because you are paying for your service in advance.

Contracts

Postpaid plans typically require a contract. This means that you are obligated to pay for your service for a certain period of time, even if you do not use it.

Early termination fees

If you cancel your postpaid plan before the contract period is over, you may have to pay an early termination fee.

Frequently asked questions about postpaid mobile plans

Can I keep my phone number when switching to a postpaid plan in Australia?

Yes – customers in Australia can typically retain their existing phone number when switching to a postpaid mobile plan. This process is known as number porting and is designed to ensure a smooth transition between providers while allowing users to continue using their familiar phone number. Number porting involves contacting the new postpaid provider and providing the necessary information about the current phone number. The provider will handle the transfer process, ensuring minimal disruption to the user's communication experience during the switch.

Are data rollover features available on postpaid mobile plans in Australia?

Yes – some postpaid mobile plans in Australia offer data rollover features, allowing customers to carry over unused data from one billing cycle to the next. This ensures users make the most of their data allocation without wasting any data they've paid for. Data rollover provides flexibility and cost savings, especially for users whose data usage varies from month to month. By rolling over unused data, customers can accumulate a reserve of data for times when they need it most, further enhancing the value of their postpaid plan. 

What are the options for international roaming with postpaid mobile plans in Australia?

Postpaid mobile plans in Australia often provide international roaming options for users who travel abroad. These options vary between providers but typically include add-on packs or features that enable international usage. Customers can choose from packages that offer specific call, text, and data allowances for use while overseas. Some postpaid plans also include international roaming inclusions as part of the plan, allowing users to use their existing plan allowances in select countries. It's essential for travellers to review their provider's international roaming offerings and associated costs before embarking on international trips to stay connected while abroad. 

Are there family or shared plans available with postpaid mobile plans in Australia?

Yes – many mobile service providers in Australia offer family or shared postpaid mobile plans. These plans are designed to cater to multiple users within a household or family, allowing them to share a pool of data, talk minutes, and text messages. Family plans often come with the convenience of a single monthly bill, making it easier for families to manage their mobile services. Additionally, family plans may include features like data allowances for each line, parental controls, and the ability to add additional lines as needed. They are an excellent choice for families looking to save on their mobile expenses while ensuring everyone has access to mobile services. 

Disclaimer:

Savvy is partnered with Econnex Comparison (CIMET Sales Pty Ltd, ABN 72 620 395 726) to provide readers with a variety of mobile phone plans to compare. We do not compare all retailers in the market, or all plans offered by all retailers. Savvy earns a commission from Econnex each time a customer buys a mobile phone plan via our website. We don’t arrange for products to be purchased directly, as all purchases are conducted via Econnex.

Any advice presented above is general in nature and doesn’t consider your personal or business objectives, needs or finances. It’s always important to consider whether advice is suitable for you before purchasing a mobile phone plan. For further information on the variety of mobile phone plans compared by Econnex, or how their business works, you can visit their website.