Tara Donnelly

Tara Donnelly is Canstar Blue’s Utilities Editor, leading the team that focuses on energy, telecommunications and consumer technology, across news, reviews and how-tos. Tara has spent more than a decade covering these topics in Australia, the US and Canada, which means she’s written about countless product launches and industry changes, including the rise of 5G, Australia’s ongoing NBN rollout, the recent years of energy price volatility and the rise of renewable energy sources. Tara also has long experience in writing within the comparison industry, giving her great insights into the information consumers want when determining which plan or device will best meet their needs, while time spent in the financial sector before turning her talent to content lets her crunch the numbers on price with ease. Tara leads the coverage of Canstar Blue’s ratings and awards for the internet and phone sectors and is an expert at advising consumers on how to use comparison tools to find the best power, internet or phone deal. Her expertise has seen her appear in national media including 9 News, 7 News, Sunrise, the ABC and The Sydney Morning Herald. Tara has a Bachelor of Communications from the University of Canberra and is passionate about simplifying complex subjects so consumers aren’t just informed, they’re connected and confident.


Manicured hands using phone

Felix Mobile launches new, data-packed SIM plans

Posted by September 26th 2023

Planet-first provider Felix Mobile is the latest Aussie telco to tweak plans and pricing — launching all-new SIM plans packed with data. The prepaid telco has unveiled two new SIM-only plans; however, it's also raised the …


Vodafone SIM Only Plans

Vodafone SIM-only phone plans

Posted by January 23rd 2024

Vodafone covers all different types of mobile phone plans, including the latest Samsung or iPhone deals. And when it comes to SIM only plans, Vodafone has a competitive suite of products on offer, providing big chunks …


Vodafone $5 Overseas Roaming

Vodafone $5 Roaming explained

Posted by January 23rd 2024

Between airfares, hotels, and splurging on a new holiday wardrobe, travel is already expensive. So if you're heading overseas, the last thing you need is to come home to surprise global roaming charges on your …


Hand using mobile phone to order Starlink internet

Starlink busted by ACMA for telco code breach

Posted by September 20th 2023

Australia's media regulator has issued Starlink with a very public slap on the wrist, calling out the satellite internet service for failing to comply with Aussie telco industry guidelines. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) …


Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 in mint

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 review: Bigger screen, better experience

Posted by September 21st 2023

Not content with being the premiere brand for standard Android smartphones, Samsung is also laying claim to the burgeoning foldable phone market in Australia. The manufacturer's Samsung Galaxy Z Fold and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip …


Happy woman using purple phone

Indie telco Swoop expands into mobile with new, low-cost plans

Posted by September 21st 2023

Fast-growing broadband provider Swoop has entered the mobile plan space, recently launching a small suite of postpaid options at competitive prices. The telco has unveiled four new SIM-only plans, with prices beginning from $15 per month …



iPhone 15 series

Apple iPhone 15 revealed: Features, prices and more

Posted by September 3rd 2024

Happy iPhone Day to all who celebrate! The 2023 editions of Apple's iconic smartphones have finally been revealed, bringing a powerhouse new chipset, better cameras, and a tougher design - albeit it with a bigger …


Young friend group using mobile phones

What is 5G? Australia’s 5G network explained

Posted by May 29th 2024

5G in Australia: key points 5G is a next-generation mobile technology that offers faster-than-ever speeds for mobile phones, tablets, and more. Telstra, Vodafone and Optus have switched on 5G in limited areas, and are currently …