Mobile Phones and Internet in Perth

One of the first things you’ll probably want to do when you arrive in Perth is set up your mobile phone and internet plan so you can stay connected. Depending on your visa status, you may not be able to sign up for a contract immediately, but you can head to a newsagent, convenience store or supermarket to buy a prepaid SIM card as an interim solution.

Mobile phones in Perth

Usually, mobile phone providers won’t allow you to lock in a contract for a post-paid mobile phone unless you’re a permanent resident of Australia. One option to consider is whether your employer can organise and cover the costs of your mobile phone as part of your employment package. If that’s not possible, you can also opt for a pre-paid mobile phone plan from the following mobile phone companies:

Costs, coverage, and plans differ between providers, so it’s best to do some research to find one that offers the best benefits for your needs. If you sign up to a contract, you might decide to get a new phone via your contract provider; if not, you’ll need to provide your own phone. Compare mobile phone plans here.

You can also find stores for the bigger mobile phone companies in shopping centres if you’d like to get assistance in person.

Landline phones and internet

If you’ve moved into a new home in Perth that doesn’t have other occupants, you’ll also need a home internet plan. There is a wide range of internet providers in Perth, some of which offer internet-only plans (without the need for a home phone), or bundles with your mobile and home phone. Your connection options include ADSL and ADSL2+, ‘naked’ DSL (internet without a telephone number), and wireless internet. Depending on where you live in Perth, you may also be able to access the National Broadband Network (NBN), which offers high-speed broadband.

Some of the largest internet providers include:

You can compare internet plans by visiting consumer ratings website Canstar.

It can take a couple of weeks to set up your internet connection, so it’s best to get the ball rolling as soon as you’ve moved into your permanent address. In the meantime, you can also buy a USB dongle that provides prepaid internet through a SIM card.