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.


Best Origin Energy Plans

What is the best Origin Energy plan?

Posted by December 4th 2024

With over four million customers under its banner, Origin is one of the big three providers in retail energy. Given its size, Origin Energy has a lot to offer in terms of plans, operating in …


Best energy plans Victoria

Expert Picks: Best Value Energy Plans VIC (December 2024)

Posted by December 4th 2024

This page contains some of the best electricity plans from energy providers in Victoria on Canstar Blue’s database. Every month, our dedicated team of energy experts will update this page to show you a range …


Happy young woman using mobile phone

Expert Picks: Best Prepaid Mobile Plans (December 2024)

Posted by December 3rd 2024

If you're looking to ward off bill shock and keep things flexible with a prepaid mobile plan, there's hundreds of options on the Aussie market to suit every user and budget. But sorting through what's …


Woman happily using laptop while sitting cross-legged

Expert Picks: Best Value NBN Plans (December 2024)

Posted by December 3rd 2024

And while price is important, opting for the cheapest plan available doesn't always mean you'll be getting the best value for your money. Finding the best plan means working out not only your monthly budget, but …


Blue iPhone 16 Plus. Best value iPhone plans in Australia

Expert Picks: Best iPhone Plans (December 2024)

Posted by December 19th 2024

iPhones don't come cheap, but if you're absolutely set on a new Apple smartphone, you can still find a great phone plan deal. The newest iPhones are available on plans from Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone, …


Happy young woman using phone with pink background

Expert Picks: Best SIM-Only Mobile Plans (December 2024)

Posted by December 3rd 2024

Choosing the best energy plans is made possible by our expert Value Rank methodology, which places each product under the microscope, examining its price, plan inclusions, customer service and billing. Then we give each plan …


Best energy deals NSW

Expert Picks: Best Value Energy Plans NSW (December 2024)

Posted by December 4th 2024

This page features some of the best electricity plans from energy providers in NSW on Canstar Blue’s database. Every month, our dedicated team of energy experts will update this page to show you a range …



Pros and cons of solar energy

Pros and cons of solar energy

Posted by November 27th 2024

In this Canstar Blue guide, we look at the pros and cons of solar energy. From installation costs and energy savings to efficiencies and maintenance, this guide simplifies the advantages and disadvantages of solar energy …


A happy young couple looking at a laptop

Average NBN speed: What is the typical evening speed?

Posted by November 26th 2024

The NBN offers several different speed options, but it's important to make sure you're on the right speed tier for your needs. If your NBN speed tier isn't fast enough to handle your home's daily …