Comprehensive Guide to Mobile Networks in Australia: 2024
Last updated 04 June 2024
Did you know that Australia has one of the highest rates of mobile penetration in the world? With over 27 million active mobile subscriptions, it's clear that Aussies are hooked on their smartphones. But with so many mobile providers to choose from, how do you find the best one for your needs? Tldr; It’s us, ZenSim 😉
But for real, in this guide, we'll take an look at the mobile network landscape in Australia for 2024, exploring the major providers, coverage, plans, and more. Whether you're a heavy data user, a frequent traveller, or just looking for the most bang for your buck, we've got you covered.
We'll cover key factors to consider when choosing a mobile network and peek into the future of mobile technology in Australia. So buckle up and get ready to become an expert on network providers in Aussie.. okay that doesn’t sound as exciting as I had hoped but you get the drift.
.webp)
Overview of Mobile Networks in Australia
Australia boasts a thriving mobile network landscape, with several major players vying for customer attention and loyalty. Australia is home to three major networks and a whole bunch of smaller players who leverage the three major networks to provide their services. From bustling cities to remote outback regions, Australians are able to stay connected no matter where their adventures take them – more or less.
Major Mobile Network Providers
The Australian mobile network market is dominated by three key players, each with their unique strengths and offerings. Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone. Historically, Telstra has had the largest network, followed by Optus and then Vodafone, although Vodafone and Optus have just signed an agreement to extend Vodafone’s network to reach 98.4 per cent of the Australian population on Jan 31st 2025 (which is exciting news since ZenSim use the Vodafone network to provide our services) - You can read more about this on the Our network page.
Alternative Mobile Providers
Aussie is also home to a tonne of Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) rounding out the competition. They leverage the same three networks above but typically have more competitive pricing and are able to offer slightly varied services to the big players mostly due to their lower running costs and ability to improve and innovate much faster than the goliath “big mobile” players. Being an MVNO ourselves we think it’s a great option for anyone looking for better customer service and a more personalised offering - curious? Check out all mobile phone plans here.
Coverage and Connectivity
Australia's vast and varied terrain poses unique challenges for mobile network providers, but none the less the majority or Australians are able to access 4G or 5G networks – majority meaning over 98%. Coverage varies, in the larger cities you’re fine, if you live more rural we recommend checking the coverage maps of your potential provider before signing up to ensure you’re covered. In the near future StarLink will also be providing coverage to cater to the 2% of Aussies who aren’t covered and living in far out rural locations. For info on ZenSim coverage you can see our Coverage map.
Comparing Mobile Network Plans
With so many options available, choosing the right mobile network plan can be a daunting task. Fortunately, Australian providers offer a diverse range of plans tailored to different needs and budgets, making it easier for consumers to find the perfect fit. We recommend looking into pricing, plan inclusions, whether the plan has 4G or 5G, checking the coverage maps of the providers and whether they’re sustainable or not.
It’s common knowledge the larger “big mobile” companies can often have somewhat subpar customer service and above average pricing so have a good look around and some of the smaller crowds. Aside from obviously us at ZenSim, if we’re not for you you could take a look at Amaysim or Felix Mobile who are another couple of smaller players with a decent offering.
Types of Plans Available
Australian mobile networks offer a variety of plan types, including prepaid, postpaid, and hybrid options. Prepaid plans are ideal for those seeking flexibility and control over their spending but often come with 28 day pay cycles. Postpaid plans offer the convenience of a single monthly bill without having to ensure you have balance available. Hybrid plans combine elements of both, providing a balance between flexibility and commitment. Here at ZenSim we have a monthly prepaid model, where you pay every month on the same day, except you prepay for the month ahead, which we think is the best of both worlds.
Best Plans for Different Needs
From heavy data users to those prioritising affordability, Australian mobile networks cater to a wide range of needs. Power users can opt for big data plans, ensuring seamless streaming and browsing without worrying about data being capped. Budget-conscious consumers can explore entry-level plans with modest data allowances and affordable pricing. Families and businesses can take advantage of group discounts and shared data plans, optimizing their mobile experience while keeping costs in check.
These days in Aussie most plans are above 20GB which for your average user who uses Wi-Fi at should be more than plenty – in fact only a few years ago most plans were below 20GB.
How to Choose the Best Mobile Network
With so many options available, selecting the best mobile network can be a daunting task. However, by considering a few key factors like we mentioned above as well as leveraging user reviews and ratings, you should be sweet to make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.

Factors to Consider
When choosing a mobile network, several factors should be taken into consideration. Coverage in your area is paramount, as a network with poor signal strength can lead to frustrating dropped calls and slow data speeds so look these up on your potential providers website. Additionally, the quality of customer service and support. Plan pricing, data allowances, and additional perks like international roaming and entertainment offerings should also be evaluated and finally whether or not they’re sustainable. This is one thing we focus on at ZenSim, check out our Sustainability page if you’re curious.
User Reviews and Ratings
While provider claims and marketing materials can be useful, nothing beats the insights and experiences of real users. Online reviews and ratings platforms offer a wealth of information, allowing you to gauge user satisfaction with various networks, plans, and services. Pay attention to recurring themes and patterns, as they can reveal valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of each provider. The most common review platforms used here are Google reviews, Product Review, Trust Pilot and Facebook reviews.
Future Trends in Australian Mobile Networks
The mobile network industry is constantly evolving, driven by technological advancements and changing consumer demands. As we look to the future, Australia's mobile networks are poised to embrace new technologies and innovations that will shape the way we communicate and consume data. 5G is readily available in every larger city in Australia now, and we’re seeing satellite technology like StarLink coming to the rescue for extremely rural locations.
5G and Beyond
The rollout of 5G networks is well underway in Australia, promising lightning-fast data speeds, ultra-low latency, and increased network capacity. As adoption grows, 5G will enable new applications and use cases, from augmented reality experiences to seamless remote work and telemedicine. Beyond 5G, researchers and engineers are already exploring the possibilities of 6G, which could revolutionise the way we interact with mobile networks and devices. Exciting times!
Innovations in Mobile Technology
Advancements in mobile technology will continue to shape the future of Australian mobile networks. Emerging technologies like edge computing, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT) will play a significant role in enhancing network performance, efficiency, and security. Additionally, sustainable practices and energy-efficient solutions will become increasingly important as providers strive to reduce their environmental impact and meet growing demand for eco-friendly services.
Summary
Australia's mobile network landscape is dynamic and rapidly evolving, catering to the diverse needs of its tech-savvy population. With the corporate players like Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone alongside numerous MVNOs like ZenSim, the competition ensures that consumers have a wide array of choices tailored to their preferences and budgets.
Key factors in selecting the best mobile provider include coverage, customer service, plan pricing, and data allowances. As 5G technology becomes more widespread, it promises to revolutionize connectivity with faster speeds and lower latency, paving the way for innovative applications and improved user experiences. Additionally, the advent of satellite technology, such as StarLink, will extend coverage to the most remote areas, ensuring that virtually all Australians stay connected.
The key takeaway is that there's no one-size-fits-all solution – the right network for you depends on your specific requirements, location, and budget. However, by considering factors like coverage, data allowances, and customer reviews, you can make an informed decision that will keep you connected wherever life takes you.

Written by Josh Warner
Co-founder of ZenSim, full-time banana bread lover.
Josh has been an engineer for the past 12+ years and in the telecommunications industry for the past six. A self proclaimed developer, designer, copywriter and occasional gym goer, if you have used a ZenSim website or app, it's likely Josh was the one who designed & built it.
Let's connect on LinkedIn 👉
Get amongst it
Join the community
We will reach out when we launch new products, about our sustainability projects, specials, new innovations or maybe even cool sh*t we think is inbox worthy.