Omari Gates
Switching mobile phone providers in Australia is a straightforward process that can bring significant benefits, from cost savings to better service. Before switching, it is important to check your current contract as you may have to pay a fee for ending it early. If you want to keep your current phone number, you can do so by requesting a number port from your new provider, who will then cancel your current plan. If you do not wish to keep your old number, you will need to manually cancel your service with your current provider. In both cases, it is recommended that you only cancel your old plan once your new service is activated and working properly.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can I keep my phone number when switching providers? | Yes, you can keep your phone number when switching providers. This is known as 'number portability' or 'porting'. |
| How can I keep my phone number when switching providers? | You can request to port your number to a new provider, and your current phone company is obligated to do so. However, your new phone company is not required to accept a port request, so be sure to select a provider that is willing to accept the request. |
| What if I don't want to keep my old phone number? | If you don't want to keep your old phone number, you will need to cancel your old number by contacting your current provider via phone, online chat, or in-store. |
| What is the process for switching providers? | First, check with your current provider about the status of your repayment plan, as you may have to pay off the handset before they release you from your contract. Then, shop around and find a new plan and provider that suits your needs. Finally, swap out your current SIM card for a new one from the new provider. |
| Are there any costs associated with switching providers? | There may be costs associated with ending your contract early or unlocking your phone if it is locked to a specific provider. Check with your provider about any early termination fees or unlocking fees. |
| How long does it take to switch providers? | The process of switching providers can vary, but it is generally straightforward and simple. It may take a few hours for the porting process to be completed, and you may need to allow a couple of business days for the switch to take effect. |
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What You'll Learn
Keeping your current phone number
Changing your mobile phone provider in Australia is a straightforward process, and you can keep your current phone number. This process is known as Mobile Number Portability or 'number porting' or 'porting' for short.
To keep your current phone number, you will need to take some specific steps. Firstly, you must ensure that your phone number is registered under your name and that you have the current billing account number. You should also check that there are no outstanding balances on your current plan, as debts can hinder the transition. For instance, customers who owe more than $1,000 often find their accounts barred, preventing them from porting their number.
During the sign-up process with your new provider, you will be asked if you want to transfer (or port) your existing mobile number to the new account. You should then enter your phone number and specify your current phone provider. Your new provider should include instructions about how to activate your new SIM card, so follow those. Your old service will continue to work until the transfer of your mobile number has been completed. Keep using your phone as normal, but make sure your new SIM card is within reach. At some point, your phone will suddenly lose service when your old provider transfers your number to the new one. At this point, remove your old SIM and replace it with the new one.
If you have been using a postpaid service, you should expect a final bill from your old provider after your mobile number transfer is complete. If you haven't finished paying off your phone, you'll need to pay out its remaining value. Your new provider is obliged to advise you of any outstanding charges payable or unfulfilled obligations with your existing provider.
You can transfer your current phone number to a new provider without cancelling your existing contract first. However, you must be the authorised customer, meaning the person with the mobile service account with the existing provider.
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Unlocking your phone
If you bought your phone as part of a plan or bundle, your phone may already be unlocked if you're out of contract. If your phone is locked to a particular network, you may have to wait until the contracted time has elapsed before you leave, or pay a fee to unlock it early. Some providers unlock phones for free, while others charge a fee. Check with your provider about what options are available and their associated costs.
If you bought your mobile phone on a plan from your provider, you may still be paying off your handset, and it may be locked to that provider's network. In this case, you'll need to pay off the handset before you can unlock it.
If you've purchased a device from Vodafone Australia, 3 Mobile, or Crazy John's, you can unlock it from the Vodafone network using their online unlocking tool. You'll need to check the IMEI number you entered is correct. If the unlock code is entered incorrectly too many times, your device may be blocked, and you'll need to take it to your nearest Vodafone store to restore it.
If you have a Post-Paid iPhone, you can unlock it for free by entering the IMEI at http://unlock.telstra.com and then restoring the iPhone in iTunes.
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Understanding your contract
Contract Terms and Conditions
Before making any changes, carefully review the terms and conditions of your current contract. Pay close attention to clauses related to early termination or switching providers. There may be specific requirements or fees associated with ending your contract early. Understanding these terms will help you make an informed decision and avoid unexpected charges.
Contract End Date
Check the end date of your current contract. If it is nearing its conclusion, you may be able to simply wait until the contract expires before switching to a new provider. This can help you avoid early termination fees and make the transition smoother.
Repayment Plan
If you acquired your phone as part of a payment plan or bundle, you may need to pay off the remaining balance on the handset before your current provider releases you from the contract. Contact your provider to clarify the status of your repayment plan and any outstanding amounts owed.
Number Portability
If keeping your current mobile number is important to you, enquire about 'number portability' or 'porting'. You have the right to retain your phone number when switching providers, and your current phone company is obligated to facilitate this process. However, your new chosen provider is not required to accept a port request, so be sure to select a provider that is willing to accommodate this.
Cancellation Process
Understand the cancellation process outlined in your contract. If you decide to switch providers, follow the specified steps for cancelling your current service. Some providers may require you to manually cancel your service, while others may automatically cancel it when you switch to a new provider.
Final Bill and Outstanding Charges
Even after switching providers, you may receive a final bill from your previous provider for any outstanding charges or fees. Be prepared to settle these remaining amounts, even if you have already made the switch.
Understanding the specifics of your contract will empower you to make informed decisions when switching mobile phone providers in Australia. Be sure to carefully review all the relevant information and clarify any uncertainties with your current and prospective providers.
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Comparing new providers
When comparing new providers, it's important to consider your requirements. For example, check the signal strength in your area by looking at the provider's coverage map. You can also assess customer service quality and whether the plan features align with your mobile usage habits. For instance, if you use a lot of data, a low data plan may not be suitable.
Phone plans in Australia are typically divided into three categories: Prepaid Plans, Post-Paid Plans, and SIM-Only Plans. Prepaid plans are perfect for controlling spending as you pay in advance and top up as needed. Post-paid plans are suitable for consistent phone users and generally come with a monthly bill and sometimes a contractual commitment. SIM-only plans use your existing phone, providing flexibility.
If you want to keep your current phone number, you must inform your new provider before cancelling your old contract. Your new provider will then send a request to your old provider to port your number. This process is called Mobile Number Portability or number porting. It can take a few days for the number to change hands, but the actual exchange is very fast, usually taking under an hour.
If you don't want to keep your old number, you will need to contact your current provider to cancel your service. You can do this by phone, online chat, or by visiting a store.
Before signing up for a new plan, be sure to compare pricing and features across different providers. Look for Critical Information Summaries on the provider's website to help with this comparison. Also, make sure you understand the terms and conditions of your contract before signing, as you may not be able to change your mind afterward.
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Cancelling your old provider
When cancelling your old provider, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, if you have a phone that is locked to a particular network, you may need to wait until your contract ends or pay a fee to unlock it early. Check with your provider about the status of your repayment plan and any associated costs for ending your contract early. Your provider may require you to pay off the handset before releasing you from your contract.
If you don't want to keep your old number, you will need to contact your current provider to cancel it. You can do this via phone, online chat, or by visiting a store. However, if you want to keep your old number, you have the right to do so, and it is known as 'number portability' or 'porting'. Your current phone company is obligated to facilitate this on your behalf, even if your service has been suspended. Your new phone company is not required to accept a port request, so be sure to select a provider that is willing to do so.
Once you have decided on a new provider, sign up with them, and they will typically complete the porting process and cancel your current plan for you. It is recommended to only cancel your old service after confirming that your new service and number are working properly. As a customer, you may have some loose ends to tie up with your old provider, and you will still be responsible for paying any final bills.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can keep your phone number when switching providers. This is known as 'number portability' or 'porting'. Your current phone company is obligated to facilitate this on your behalf. However, your new phone company is not required to accept a port request, so be sure to select a provider that does.
First, check with your current provider about the status of your repayment plan. You may have to pay a fee for ending your contract early. Then, find a new plan and provider that suits your needs. If you have a locked phone, you may have to wait until the contracted time has elapsed or pay a fee to unlock it early. Finally, sign up with your new provider and they will complete the port out/in for you, which will cancel your current plan.
Unlike phones bought on a payment plan bundle, which are often locked to a specific provider, an unlocked phone gives you the freedom to choose any network.
To avoid losing your contacts, make sure to store them on a cloud service or on your handset, rather than on your SIM card.
If you signed up with a new telco over the phone, you can cancel up to 10 business days after the transfer. After this period, you can still inform your new telco that you did not authorise the transfer, and contact your previous telco to explain the situation and request to return to your previous arrangement.
