Why your choice matters (and how I compare plans)
Choosing a plan isn’t just a race to the lowest sticker price. I always weigh three levers together: monthly cost, data-for-money, and where the network actually works day to day. In Australia, many bargain plans ride on Vodafone or Optus infrastructure, while the most reliable regional and rural coverage typically comes from Telstra (and select resellers like Boost).
Quick answer
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Best overall for most people: TPG 50GB (~\$17.50) — Vodafone network
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Cheapest entry price: TPG 25GB (~\$12.50) — Vodafone network
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Best prepaid flexibility: Felix Mobile (~\$15–\$30) — Vodafone network
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Best coverage reach: Boost Mobile (~\$17–\$49) — Telstra network
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Best long‑term savings: Kogan 365‑day (~\$199/year) — Vodafone network
> Plans can start as low as \$12.50/month while still offering generous data.
Cheapest mobile plans in Australia
If your number‑one goal is cutting the bill, these options usually lead the pack.
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Ultra‑cheap picks
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TPG 25GB → ~\$12.50/month
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Moose Mobile 30GB → ~\$12.40/month
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SpinTel (promos) → ~\$14/month
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These are among the lowest everyday prices you’ll find.
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Cheap but higher data
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Kogan Mobile → 40–60GB (~\$15–\$25)
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Lyca Mobile → up to 80GB (intro offers from ~\$10)
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It’s increasingly common to snag 40GB+ for under \$30/month.
Best prepaid mobile phone plans
Prepaid often beats postpaid for value because there’s no contract, lower average monthly cost, and it’s easy to switch when promos pop up.
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Top prepaid picks
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TPG Small (50GB) — Best overall bang‑for‑buck
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Felix Mobile — Unlimited data option (speed‑shaped)
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Lyca Mobile 365‑day — Best long‑term value
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EZEE Mobile / Superloop — Strong Telstra‑network alternatives
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> For most people, prepaid = lower monthly cost and more flexibility.
Best mobile phone plans overall (value + performance)
These hit a sweet spot of price, data, and reliability.
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Best overall plan: TPG 50GB (~\$17.50/month)
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Excellent value per GB
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Plenty of data for streaming, maps, and socials
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Best for heavy data users: Vodafone large plans (100GB–400GB)
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Great for streaming and gaming on the go
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Best premium option: Telstra plans
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Widest population coverage (~99%)
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Most reliable in regional areas
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> Telstra tends to cost more, but if coverage is your top priority, it’s often worth it.
Long‑expiry (365‑day) cheapest plans
If you want the lowest long‑term spend, pay annually and forget monthly renewals.
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OnePass Mobile → \$149/year (200GB total)
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Kogan Mobile → ~\$199/year (up to ~900GB total)
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Lyca Mobile → ~\$175/year (around ~600GB total)
That can average out to roughly \$12/month on the cheapest options.
Simple decision guide
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Cheapest month‑to‑month: TPG / Moose / SpinTel
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Best prepaid: TPG / Felix / Lyca
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Best overall balance: TPG for value; Telstra (or Boost) for coverage
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Heavy users: Vodafone large data plans
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Lowest yearly cost: Kogan / OnePass (365‑day)
Bottom line
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Best all‑rounder: TPG 50GB
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Absolute cheapest: TPG 25GB (~\$12.50)
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Best prepaid: Felix / TPG
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Best network reach: Telstra / Boost
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Best long‑term savings: 365‑day bundles
If you’re unsure, start with TPG 50GB for a month. If coverage disappoints in your area, jump to Boost for Telstra reach, or go annual with Kogan when you’re ready to lock savings in.
