How to use your mobile phone in Australia?
You can use your international roaming plan (expensive) or buy a local SIM card (Telstra, Optus, Vodafone) to save money. Network coverage is excellent in cities and along the East Coast, but limited in the Outback.
Options for calling in Australia
- International plan : most French operators include Australia, but rates remain high for calls and data.
- Local SIM card : most economical solution for stays of several weeks. Can be purchased at the airport or at operator stores.
Main Australian operators
- Telstra : best national coverage, including in remote areas.
- Optus : good value for money, adequate coverage of urban areas.
- Vodafone : competitive rates, network concentrated in major cities.
Network coverage to plan for
Mobile coverage is excellent in major cities (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane) and along the entire East Coast. However, coverage becomes very limited or non-existent in the Outback and isolated rural areas.
Advice from our local agency
For a road trip in the Outback, plan for a satellite phone or check coverage areas before departure. Telstra remains the operator with the best coverage in remote regions.