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.



Samsung Galaxy S21 in violet against a green background

Samsung Galaxy S21 review: a fast new flagship smartphone

Posted by February 22nd 2023

Samsung's latest premium smartphone — and the first major device release of 2021 — is the Galaxy S21, a high-end upgrade to last year's much-loved S20 series. Touted as a handset that puts the 'epic' …


Young woman looking at laptop against yellow background

Optus Bundles Compared: Internet & Entertainment

Posted by March 7th 2022

Today’s internet is more than just about data. Providers such as Optus offer entertainment bundles on some plans, so you can not only browse the web but enjoy streaming and premium TV as well. Read …



Smiling young woman using mobile phone

Telstra’s new mobile plans ditch bills for upfront payments

Posted by February 22nd 2023

Telstra is making moves to scrap traditional postpaid phone bills, launching a new set of 'upfront' mobile plans that require customers to pay in advance - just don't call them prepaid. The telco has quietly unveiled …


Young man using smartphone while leaning against blue wall

AGL launches SIM-only mobile plans with bundle discounts

Posted by February 22nd 2023

Several months after launching a small suite of NBN plans, leading energy provider AGL is continuing its move into the Australian telco market. The company has officially announced AGL Mobile, a new range of SIM-only …


Best phone plans on Vodafone Network

Phone Plans & Deals for Students

Posted by August 27th 2024

Compare student phone plans and deals from Telstra, Optus, Vodafone and other telcos in this Canstar Blue review.




Samsung Galaxy S21 phones in white, purple and black

Samsung Galaxy S21, S21+ and S21 Ultra: specs, features, and prices

Posted by February 22nd 2023

The first hot smartphones of 2021 are finally official, with Samsung confirming its Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+ and Galaxy S21 Ultra devices are coming to Australian shores ASAP. Featuring an eye-catching new design, professional grade …