Best Mobile Plans in Canberra

If you're in Canberra or elsewhere in the Australian Capital Territory, you can compare mobile phone plans side by side with Savvy today.

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, updated on October 26th, 2023       

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

Whether you’re a new arrival to Canberra or a lifelong resident, it's important to have a mobile plan that meets your needs and budget as you go about life in the city. However, with so many different providers and plans available, it can be difficult to know where to start. That's where Savvy comes in.

Our free online comparison platform lets you easily compare quotes from a range of trusted providers. So if you're in the heart of the city, living in the suburbs or located anywhere else in or around the Australian capital, we're here to help you find a plan that suits your needs. Start with a free, no-obligation quote today.

What types of mobile plans are available in Canberra?

In Canberra, like the rest of Australia, there are three main types of mobile plans:

Prepaid plans: pay for a specific amount of data, talk, and text in advance. These plans are ideal for people on a budget or who want more control over their spending.

Postpaid plans: pay for services after you use them. These plans often come with additional features like unlimited talk and text, but they may be more expensive than prepaid plans.

Pay as you go (PAYG) plans: pay for services as you use them. These plans are ideal for people who don't use their phones frequently.

There are often a variety of plan options available with these types of plans, such as:

  • SIM-only plans: provide a SIM card and network coverage, but no handset. These plans are ideal for people who already have a phone or want to upgrade to a newer model without being tied to a contract.
  • SIM-and-phone plans: include both a SIM card and a mobile device. These plans are ideal for people who want to get a new phone and a mobile plan at the same time.
  • Family plans: allow multiple lines to be included in a single plan. These plans can help families who want to save money on their mobile bills and can be a convenient way to manage multiple phone plans.
  • Business plans: tailored to the needs of businesses, offering features like multiple lines, shared data and special rates for business-related calls. Business plans can also include features like mobile device management and security.

How do I choose the best mobile plan for my needs in Canberra?

When choosing a mobile plan in Canberra, there are a few key factors to consider:

  • Usage: how much data, call time and texts do you need? Knowing your usage patterns will help you choose a plan that meets your needs and avoids overpaying.
  • Budget: how much are you willing or able to spend on a mobile plan each month? Be sure to factor in any additional costs, such as handset repayments for contract plans.
  • Type of plan: choose the type of plan that best suits your needs and preferences, whether that’s the flexibility of a prepaid plan or the extra features of a postpaid one.
  • Provider: research different mobile providers and their offerings, looking for reputable companies that can give you the plan you need.
  • Network coverage: consider the coverage of providers in the locations you spend your time and check coverage maps. A strong network ensures you're connected wherever you go.
  • Additional features: some plans come with perks like unlimited talk and text, data rollover and access to entertainment platforms. If these are important to you, choose a plan that includes them.
  • Future needs: anticipate any changes in your usage patterns or needs. If you expect your data usage to increase or if you're planning to travel more frequently, choose a plan that can accommodate these changes.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best mobile plan in Canberra for your needs and budget.

How much will my mobile plan cost in Canberra?

The cost of a mobile plan in Canberra can vary depending on your needs, budget and other factors such as:

  • Plan type: prepaid plans offer more control over spending, while postpaid plans often come with additional features, so decide which plan best suits your needs.
  • Inclusions: consider the data, talk and text allowances, as well as any additional features that are important to you.
  • Handset repayments: if you need a new phone, you may want to consider a contract plan, but keep in mind the monthly handset repayments.
  • Data: going over your data limit can result in extra charges, so be sure to choose a plan with enough data for your needs.
  • Providers: different providers offer plans at varying price points, so compare plans from different providers to find the best deal for you.
  • Add-ons: some plans offer optional add-ons, such as international calls or additional data packs, but these will incur extra charges.
  • Contract length: longer contracts may come with lower monthly fees, but you may have to pay an early termination fee if you cancel before the contract term is up.

Top tips for saving money on your mobile plan in Canberra

Pay only for what you need

Assess your phone usage habits and choose a plan that includes the right amount of data, talk time and text messages for you. Don't overpay for features you don't use.

Use data-saving features

Most phones have data-saving features that can help you reduce your data usage. For example, you can turn off background data usage for apps that you don’t use often.

Look for promotions and discounts

Mobile providers often offer promotions and discounts on their plans. Keep an eye out for these deals and take advantage of them when you can.

Use Wi-Fi

If you're connected to Wi-Fi, you won't use any of your mobile data. This can help you save a lot of money on your mobile bill, especially if you're a heavy data user.

Monitor your usage

Keep an eye on your data, talk and text usage to help you stay within your plan’s limits and avoid additional costs.

Shop around

Don’t just stick with your current provider because you’re comfortable with them. Take some time to compare plans from different providers to see if you can find a better deal.

Frequently asked questions about the best mobile plans in Canberra

Can I keep my existing mobile plan if I move to Canberra?

Yes – you should be able to keep your existing mobile plan if you move to Canberra from elsewhere in Australia. Mobile plans in Australia are not tied to specific locations, so you should be able to continue using your current plan in Canberra without significant issues. However, it's advisable to update your address with your mobile provider for billing and administrative purposes.

Are there any local mobile providers unique to Canberra?

No – Canberra, like the rest of Australia, has national mobile providers that operate across the country. There are no mobile providers exclusive to Canberra. However, you have a diverse selection of well-known national providers to choose from, as well as various mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) that offer services in the Canberra area.

Is there good network coverage in Canberra?

Yes – Canberra typically enjoys good network coverage provided by major mobile carriers. As the capital city of Australia, Canberra benefits from robust network infrastructure. Nevertheless, it's a good idea to review coverage maps or consult with providers to ensure that the network coverage meets your specific needs, especially if you plan to travel to remote or less densely populated areas around Canberra.

Are there any mobile plans for students in Canberra?

While there are currently no mobile plans specifically for students in Canberra or the rest of Australia, some providers offer special features or discounts for students. This may include discounted rates, extra data allowances and other perks specifically designed to cater to students’ needs. It's a good idea to check with different providers to see if they have any student-specific offers.

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.