How to Switch Mobile Plans
Find out the steps you need to take to change mobile provider with Savvy’s useful guide.
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Switching mobile providers can be a great way to save money and get a better phone plan for your needs. In this handy guide, we walk you through the steps of switching mobile phone providers in Australia, from choosing a new plan to porting your number. Whether you’re unhappy with your current provider, looking for a better mobile plan or simply want to save money, switching mobile phone providers could be the solution. So what are you waiting for? Let's get started!
How do I switch mobile providers in Australia?
To switch mobile providers in Australia, you will need to:
- Choose a new mobile plan. Compare different mobile plans from different providers to find the best plan for your needs and budget.
- Contact your new provider. Once you’ve chosen a new plan, contact your new provider to start the switching process.
- Provide your account information. Your new provider will need some basic information about your account, such as your account number and phone number.
- Pay any switching fees. Some providers charge a fee to switch plans. Be sure to ask about any switching fees before you start the process.
- Port your number. If you want to keep your phone number, you'll need to port it to your new provider. This is usually a simple process, but it can take a few days to complete. It’s also important not to cancel your old plan before signing up for a new one, or you risk losing your phone number.
Do I need to cancel my old mobile plan when switching providers?
When you move to a new provider, your old phone plan will be automatically cancelled when the new plan begins. However, if you have a contract with your old provider, you may still be liable for the remaining balance of your contract, so it is important to check and ensure any final bills are settled.
If you want to cancel your plan outright without moving to a new plan, you will need to contact your mobile provider to do this – depending on your provider, you may be able to cancel over the phone, online or in-store.
What are the benefits of switching mobile provider?
There are many benefits to switching mobile providers, including:
- Saving money: you can often find better deals on mobile plans if you’re willing to switch providers.
- More features: you may be able to get more features on your new plan.
- Improved network coverage: if you’re not happy with your network coverage, switching to a different provider may give you better coverage in the areas where you spend most of your time.
- A new phone: some providers offer discounts on new phones when you switch to their service.
- Better customer service: some providers have a better reputation for customer service than others. If you’re not happy with the customer service you're getting from your current provider, switching to a different one may give you a better experience.
How do I choose the best mobile plan for my needs?
To choose the best mobile plan for your needs, you should consider the following factors:
- Budget: how much are you willing to spend on your mobile phone bill each month?
- Needs: what features are important to you? Do you need unlimited talk and text? A lot of data?
- Usage habits: how often do you use your phone? How much data do you typically use each month?
- Coverage: choose a plan that offers good coverage in the areas where you spend most of your time.
- Customer service: read reviews of different providers to see what other customers have to say about their customer service.
You can then compare a range of plans and providers using Savvy’s free comparison tool.
Frequently asked questions about switching mobile plans
Helpful guides on mobile plans
Compare mobile plans with Savvy
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.