With the rising cost of living, many Australians are looking for ways to save money, and mobile plans are often a good place to start.
While larger telco providers like Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone dominate the market with their extensive coverage and premium plans, they can be expensive for everyday users.
That’s where Mobile Virtual Network Operators come into play.
These smaller providers operate on the big networks but offer more affordable alternatives, allowing you to stay connected without breaking the bank.
Why Aussies Are Opting for Cheaper Plans
Australians are becoming more conscious of their spending, and with inflation affecting everything from groceries to utilities, mobile plan costs are under the spotlight.
Recent trends show that many Aussies are opting for cheaper mobile plans, not just because of budget constraints, but also due to changing usage habits.
With more access to Wi-Fi at home and work, the need for large data bundles has decreased for many.
Additionally, many users are reassessing their mobile habits, questioning whether they really need premium features or high monthly bills when affordable alternatives can easily meet their needs.
Holding Onto Phones Longer & Opting for SIM-Only Plans
Another factor driving the shift toward cheaper mobile plans is the growing trend of holding onto phones for longer periods.
Gone are the days when people upgraded their devices every year or two.
Now, many are keeping their phones for 3-4 years or even longer, reducing the need for expensive handset-inclusive contracts.
As a result, SIM-only plans have become increasingly popular.
These plans allow customers to keep their existing device and simply pay for the mobile service, leading to significant savings over time.
Best Mobile Plans Under $20 and $30
When it comes to affordable mobile plans, there are plenty of options on the market for under $30, and some great deals even fall below $20.
Here are a few standout options:
Tips for Reducing Your Phone Bills
Finding a cheaper mobile plan is just one way to save money.
Here are a few more tips to reduce your phone bill:
- Review Your Data Usage – Make sure you’re not paying for more data than you need. Many users can downgrade their plan and still have enough data by monitoring their monthly usage.
- Take Advantage of Wi-Fi – Whenever possible, connect to Wi-Fi at home, work, or public places to save on mobile data.
- Switch to Prepaid Plans – Prepaid plans give you control over how much you spend each month, helping you avoid unexpected charges.
To see how much you could save, check out the Mobile Savings Calculator, which can help you understand how much you can save by changing plans.
Take Advantage of Promotional Deals
One of the easiest ways to snag a cheaper mobile plan is by capitalizing on promotional deals. Many MVNOs and even the larger providers frequently offer limited-time discounts, bonus data, or even multi-month savings for new customers.
For example, you might find deals where the first three months of a plan are significantly reduced, or you get extra data without paying more.
It’s always worth checking out these offers, especially during holiday seasons or when providers are competing to attract more users.
Keep an eye out for promotions through newsletters, comparison websites, or directly on the provider’s website.
You can use our little calculator to see how much your commitment term will be, inclusive of the discount.
Commitment Calculator
Find Out How Much You Are Committing To With Your Telco
By timing your switch with one of these deals, you can save even more on your mobile expenses.
Be Confident in Changing Providers
If you’ve been with the same provider for years, the thought of switching can feel daunting, but rest assured, it’s easier than ever to make the move.
Most providers allow you to keep your existing phone number when you switch, and the process is usually quick and seamless.
With the growing number of MVNOs in Australia offering affordable and reliable plans, there’s no reason to stick with a provider that no longer meets your needs.
Don’t hesitate to make the switch—it’s your money, and you deserve to get the best value for it, you can read our guide on Switching Mobile Providers for additional help.
