GET SETTLED / COMPARE YOUR OPTIONS

Get connected: SIMs & eSIMs

You’ll use your phone for maps, employers calling back and sorting out your first few days. Start with whether you need an Australian number, then compare coverage and cost.

I’ve sorted this

Where should I start?

Working here for a while? Look at a local prepaid plan with calls and texts. Just need internet when you land? A travel eSIM can bridge the gap—check exactly what the package includes.

Options to compare

Official prices and terms checked 16 October 2026.

Local mobile service

Telstra prepaid

A local prepaid option with physical SIM and eSIM choices. Compare its coverage map against where you actually plan to work and travel.

Before you choose

Check your chosen plan’s recharge period, inclusions, device compatibility and standard price after any promotion.

Check Telstra prepaid

Local mobile service

amaysim prepaid

Prepaid plans with eSIM available for compatible devices. Physical SIMs can also be bought through Australian retailers.

Before you choose

Compare the ongoing plan cost and coverage for your route. Check the activation documents and whether your chosen plan includes what you need.

Check amaysim prepaid

Travel eSIM

Airalo Australia eSIM

A travel eSIM option you can investigate before arriving. Compare package duration and data allowance with how long you need it.

Before you choose

Do not assume a travel eSIM gives you an Australian phone number or SMS. Read the package’s calls, texts, data and activation details.

Check Airalo Australia eSIM

Local mobile service

Boost prepaid

A further prepaid option to compare. Its A$39 starter SIM includes the first A$39 recharge with a 28-day expiry (checked 17 October 2026).

Before you choose

Compare the current data allowance, later recharge prices, phone compatibility and coverage at your actual workplace. The example price is not a permanent offer.

Check Boost prepaid

Your questions, answered

Do I need an Australian phone number?

For job hunting, a local number makes it simpler for employers to call or text you. A data-only travel eSIM can get you online, but won’t necessarily receive ordinary calls or SMS. Check that before putting it on your CV.

Should I buy a SIM at the airport?

If you need data straight away, it can be convenient. If you can reach your accommodation using airport Wi-Fi and a saved route, you have time to compare plans afterwards. Compare the normal recharge cost as well as any arrival offer.

What should I budget for my phone?

Compare the price over the time you’ll actually use it. For example, A$39 every 28 days means 13 recharges cost A$507 and cover 364 days. It isn’t the same as A$39 per calendar month. Data allowances, promotions and renewal prices change; the provider links below show the current deals.

Which network should I use for farm work?

Check the coverage map at the farm address, then ask the employer which networks work there. Coverage in the nearest town doesn’t tell you whether you’ll have reception in your room or out in the fields. Do this before committing to a long-expiry plan.

Before you commit

Check your phone is unlocked and compatible with the provider, including eSIM support if you want a digital SIM.
Compare the ongoing recharge price, not just the first-purchase offer. A 28-day recharge is not a calendar month.
Check coverage at your accommodation and intended workplace, especially before heading to a farm.
Check local calls, SMS, hotspot use, expiry, auto-renewal and activation requirements before paying.

Keep your number somewhere easy to find, then use the same contact details on your CV and applications.

These are direct provider links. No affiliate tracking is currently used.

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