A subscriber identity module, otherwise known as SIM card, is needed to connect your phone to your provider’s network and essentially identifies the phone as yours. This then gives the device the ability to make and receive calls and texts as well as use data – depending on which type of SIM card you get. When it comes to picking up a new SIM card, shoppers have plenty of options to choose from, including which provider to buy from, what inclusions to get and where to purchase it from.
With so much competition in the telecommunications space, it’s worth shopping around to find the best deal for you. In this Canstar Blue article, we outline where you can buy SIM cards in Australia to help you stay in touch with friends and family.
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Prepaid offers you might like
The following table shows a selection of sponsored SIM Only plans on Canstar Blue’s database with links to referral partners.
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1 Month Contract (1 month min. cost $20) SIM Only Prepaid
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UnlimitedGB Data/month |
$20.00 Cost/month |
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365 Day Contract (365 days min. cost $149) SIM Only Prepaid
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140GB Data/expiry period |
$149.00 Cost/expiry period |
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Where can I buy a SIM card?
There are a number of places that will stock SIM cards, both physical stores and online. We have outlined some of the most popular options below.
Telco stores
Telco providers often have stores that you can visit to help with any issues that you might be having, or if you’re looking to sign up to a new plan or service. As they’re in the business of providing phone services, there will be plenty of SIM card options available.
Telstra
One of the primary telco providers available in Australia, Telstra has more than 300 stores around the country, with a store locator available on the Telstra website. If you’re looking for a phone on a plan, you can sign up online or in store, with SIM-only phones additionally available in store.
Optus
Similar to Telstra, Optus also has more than 300 stores located around Australia, with most models and plans available for sign up in store, including SIM cards and SIM-only plans. Optus also provides a comprehensive customer support service in stores, meaning that if you’re having any problems with your phone or internet, you’ll be able to drop into a store and ask for assistance.
Vodafone
Another of Australia’s big telco providers, Vodafone has more than 100 stores around Australia for you to visit, so if you’re after a SIM card, or looking at a SIM-only plan, it might be best to head in store.
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Electronic retailers
Australia has plenty of electronic retailers for you to visit, all of which are packed with the latest tech, including cameras, laptops, video games, as well as SIM cards.
JB Hi-Fi
Known primarily for its a wide variety of electronics, JB Hi-Fi has more than 200 stores around Australia, with shoppers able to purchase from the website as well. There is a variety of SIM cards available, including JB Hi-Fi’s own branded SIM, powered by the Telstra network.
Officeworks
The one-stop shop for all your office needs, Officeworks has plenty of gadgets and SIM cards on offer as well. With over 150 stores around Australia, shoppers can additionally shop online. Officeworks also has you covered for all your stationery needs.
The Good Guys
With electronics for every room of the house, The Good Guys has over 100 stores around Australia. There is a decent selection of SIM cards available to be purchased either in store or online. Oh and you’ll also be able to walk out with a washing machine or refrigerator if you so wish!
Harvey Norman
With around 200 stores located in Australia, Harvey Norman stocks both SIM cards and prepaid mobile phones from the major telcos, making it a handy option if you don’t have an actual telco store nearby. Like The Good Guys, Harvey Norman is also a major appliance retailer, stocking everything for your kitchen, living room and office.
Supermarkets and convenience stores
If you’re looking for a cheap SIM, or need one in a hurry, Australian supermarkets and convenience stores often stock a number of SIMs ready for purchase.
Coles
One of the largest supermarket chains in Australia, Coles has more than 800 locations around Australia, with the majority of stores offering prepaid phones for customers to purchase. Partnering with Optus, shoppers can purchase either a prepaid SIM card for their own phone, or purchase phones outright at the front desk. Available prepaid plans are outlined on the Coles website, so be sure to check it out before you head into your local supermarket.
Woolworths
One of the most popular supermarket chains in Australia, Woolworths has close to 1,000 stores around the country, and has partnered with Telstra for prepaid and postpaid plans and coverage.
ALDI
A popular option for many Aussie shoppers, ALDI has grown to more than 500 stores across Australia, offering everything from groceries to kitchen appliances and even ski gear as part of its weekly Special Buys. Similar to other supermarket chains, ALDI also offers prepaid plans, with the supermarket partnering with Telstra for its coverage and plans, meaning solid mobile coverage across the country, with SIM cards available for purchase in store.
Australia Post
With thousands of retail outlets around Australia, Australia Post also sells SIM plans for overseas travel. Usually, Australia Post is the go-to store for sending letters and parcels, having your passport photo taken, and countless other services that Aussies still rely on, especially those who don’t have access to the internet, or simply prefer face-to-face interaction over talking to people online.
7-Eleven
A handy option for anyone looking to fill up on fuel or Krispy Kreme doughnuts, 7-Eleven also provides a number of mobile phone accessories and SIM cards for those who need one in a hurry. With nearly 700 locations around Australia, 7-Eleven stocks SIM cards for all major telcos, as well as international calling cards for those looking to keep in contact with someone overseas.
How do I switch a SIM card?
Once you have bought your SIM card, you’ll need to know how to remove the existing SIM and replace it with your new one. Where the SIM slot is located will vary from model to model but, once you’ve found it on your device, the general steps should be as follows:
- Insert the SIM tool that came with your phone (alternatively, you can use a thin paperclip) into the small hole on the SIM tray until it pops out.
- If there is an existing SIM card in the tray, remove it (and put it somewhere safe if you’re wanting to use it again) and replace with your new SIM.
- Slide the tray back into your phone and you’re all done!
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