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SETTLING IN · PHONE

Land with data. Get an Aussie number in week one.

Your bank, employer and myGov will all want an Australian mobile number. Here's the two-step way to stay connected from the moment you land.

  • Works before you fly
  • No contract
  • Keep your home number
See the options
Your first week, connected
  1. Before you flyInstall a travel eSIM. Data works as soon as you land — no airport queue.
  2. Week oneGet a local prepaid SIM with an Australian number for bank, work and myGov codes.
  3. Keep your home SIMDual-SIM phones keep it active for codes from your home bank.
Step by step

Get connected before you land

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  • Step 1 · Before you fly
    AiraloTravel eSIM · data only
    Good for
    Data from the moment you land
    You need
    An eSIM-compatible, unlocked phone
    Number
    No Australian number — data only

    Travel eSIM with data plans for Australia — set it up before you land, no physical SIM. Data only: for an Australian phone number you'll still need a local SIM (e.g. Boost, Optus or Telstra).

    Get an Australia eSIM Airalo, partner link (opens in a new tab)

Other networks: Telstra, Optus and Vodafone all sell prepaid SIMs at airports, supermarkets and online. Any prepaid SIM gives you a local number — compare plans before you buy.

Before you fly

Is your phone ready?

  • Unlocked — ask your home carrier if you're not sure
  • eSIM-compatible — check Settings → Mobile / Cellular
  • Dual SIM — keep your home number for bank codes
  • Roaming off on your home SIM to avoid surprise charges
Why an Australian number matters

Most sign-ups here send a code by SMS.

Bank accounts, employers' payroll apps, myGov and many rental applications ask for an Australian mobile. Getting one in week one saves a lot of back-and-forth.

Common questions

Can I use a travel eSIM long-term?

It works for data, but it has no Australian number. Most people switch to a local prepaid SIM in the first week.

Do I need ID to get a SIM?

Yes. Australian prepaid SIMs must be activated with ID; a passport works.

Should I cancel my home number?

Not straight away. Many banks back home send codes by SMS — keep it until you've moved everything over.