Phone & Internet

Updated 2026-Q1

Getting a SIM card at the airport

At Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine), you'll find Telstra and Optus kiosks in the international arrivals hall. The SkyBus to the CBD takes about 30 minutes — good time to set up your new SIM.

Student SIM deals

Most carriers offer student-specific plans with extra data. Ask about student discounts — typically 10-20% off monthly plans. Some universities have partnerships with specific carriers.

Choosing a mobile plan

Australia has three major networks: Telstra (best coverage, especially rural), Optus (good urban coverage, competitive pricing), and Vodafone (budget-friendly, urban areas). MVNOs like Boost, Amaysim, and Woolworths Mobile offer cheaper plans on these networks. Prepaid plans range from $15-$60/month with 10-100GB data.

Home internet

Melbourne has excellent NBN coverage across most suburbs. FTTP (Fibre to the Premises) is available in many newer developments. Inner-city apartments may have alternative fibre providers like LBNCo or OptiComm.

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