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.


Light bulbs sitting on top of energy bill

Aussies urged to compare energy plans after recent price rises

Posted by August 11th 2023

Australia's consumer watchdog is once again prompting homes and businesses to shop around for a better deal on electricity, after recent energy price rises saw costs jump as much as 20% above default pricing – …


OPPO Reno10 5G phones in blue and grey

OPPO’s Reno10 5G is a stunning portrait-ready smartphone

Posted by August 4th 2023

OPPO's newest Reno series smartphone has hit Aussie shores — boasting a striking design and pro camera features to make your selfies and portrait shots stand out from the pack. The OPPO Reno10 5G is a …


Guaranteed Energy Discounts Explained

Guaranteed Energy Discounts Explained

Posted by May 16th 2024

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a guarantee, whether it comes in the form of an engagement ring, or just an order confirmation email from the pizza place down the road. So, when it comes …


Samsung Galaxy folding phones

The best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 & Galaxy Z Flip 5 deals

Posted by July 28th 2023

Samsung's newest folding smartphones have been unveiled — and while these premium devices don't come cheap, there's plenty of special offers and freebies available to early birds who order in the next few weeks. Pick …



Woman's hands using a silver smartphone

Telstra, TPG, Optus and more busted for customer code breaches

Posted by July 26th 2023

Eight of Australia's biggest and most well-known telcos have been slapped with formal warnings from the communications regulator, after failing to give customers adequate notice before restricting their service. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) …


Close-up of woman's hands holding grey iPhone

Could Kogan Mobile’s new iPhone plans save you hundreds?

Posted by July 25th 2023

Prepaid telco Kogan Mobile is making the move to iPhone more accessible to Aussies in the ongoing cost of living crisis. The SIM-only provider has launched all-new payment plans for refurbished Apple devices, giving customers …



Smiling woman using smartphone outdoors in cold weather

Circles.Life ices out Telstra with mobile plan price freeze

Posted by July 7th 2023

Energy bills, the weekly shop, and mortgages are on the rise — with phone plans prices the next utility set to spike in cost this financial year. But budget-friendly, SIM-only telco Circles.Life is bucking the …