Best Mobile Phone Plans in Australia 2025 – Compare Data, Prices & Coverage
Choosing the right mobile phone plan in Australia for 2025 can save you hundreds of dollars a year. With providers competing aggressively on 5G coverage, data bundles, and international call options, the Australian market is one of the most competitive in the world. This guide highlights the best SIM-only and contract phone plans, explains key differences, and shows you how to apply directly through official carrier sites.
1) Key trends in 2025 mobile plans
- 5G Standard: Almost all major carriers now include 5G as default, with urban areas having near-total coverage.
- SIM-only growth: More Australians are buying phones outright and pairing them with low-cost SIM-only plans.
- Data rollover: Plans that allow unused data to carry over are becoming the norm.
- International inclusions: Bundled roaming data and discounted calls to Asia, Europe, and the U.S. are common.
2) Top carriers and best picks (2025)
Based on cost, coverage, and customer satisfaction, these providers stand out:
- Telstra: Widest 5G coverage, premium pricing, great for rural and regional users.
- Optus: Competitive mid-range pricing, strong 5G performance in cities, good family bundles.
- Vodafone (TPG): Budget-friendly, excellent international call packs, improving coverage in regional areas.
- Amaysim & Boost Mobile: Leading MVNOs offering cheap SIM-only options with flexible data.
3) Average pricing tiers in 2025
- Budget plans: $20–$30/month → 20–40GB data, unlimited local calls/texts.
- Mid-range plans: $40–$60/month → 60–120GB data, 5G included, some international calls.
- Premium plans: $70–$100+/month → 150GB+ data, roaming packs, streaming perks (Netflix/Spotify bundles in some cases).
4) SIM-only vs. contract
SIM-only: Lower cost, flexible month-to-month terms, bring-your-own-device. Contract plans: Higher cost but spread the cost of a new smartphone over 24–36 months, often bundled with insurance. For 2025, many Australians are opting for SIM-only, especially given cheaper handset financing from banks and retailers.
5) How to choose the right plan
- Heavy data users: Go for mid-to-premium Optus or Telstra plans with unlimited speed tiers.
- Budget-focused: Consider Amaysim, Boost, or Vodafone SIM-only plans.
- Frequent travelers: Telstra and Optus offer the most reliable roaming add-ons.
- Family bundles: Optus Family Plans allow multiple SIMs with shared data pools.
6) Final thoughts
The best mobile plan in Australia 2025 depends on whether you prioritise price, coverage, or extras like roaming and entertainment bundles. Telstra remains the leader in coverage, Optus balances performance and value, Vodafone shines in budget international features, while MVNOs like Boost and Amaysim are unbeatable for flexibility.
