How to change ownership of your mobile number
As long as you have consent and sufficient proof of identity, the rest is easy.
Key takeaways
- You will need to submit a change of ownership request for your mobile number if your current account is not under your name.
- Requirements differ depending on the provider but you will usually need to present at least 2 types of ID.
- This process can take up to 10 business days to be completed.
How do I change ownership of my mobile number?
This process can vary depending on who your mobile provider is, but the main steps will more or less remain the same.
1. Gather ID from both people
Both new and old account holders will need sufficient ID to get the process underway. We break down exactly what you need in the section below. Keep both the account number and mobile number for your plan on hand.
2. Get the right form
Some providers, like Telstra, TPG/Vodafone, and amaysim, will require you to fill out a change of ownership form that can be submitted online. Others, including Boost Mobile, require you to lodge your request via telephone.
3. Fill out the paperwork
Complete any necessary forms with the appropriate details and lodge them with your provider. You will be notified once the ownership transfer is complete.
- Good to know: The process will work the same if you want to transfer your number to someone else. Just ask them to initiate the process.
Finder survey: How difficult do Australians of different ages find switching mobile plans?
Response | 75+ yrs | 65-74 yrs | 55-64 yrs | 45-54 yrs | 35-44 yrs | 25-34 yrs | 18-24 yrs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Easy | 55.17% | 53.71% | 54.65% | 55.96% | 50.25% | 57.34% | 37.11% |
| Somewhat difficult | 31.03% | 35.43% | 31.98% | 37.31% | 45.18% | 33.49% | 56.7% |
| Very difficult | 8.62% | 9.14% | 12.21% | 5.18% | 4.57% | 8.72% | 5.15% |
| I don't have a mobile phone/mobile phone plan | 5.17% | 1.71% | 1.16% | 1.55% | 0.46% | 1.03% |
Source: Finder survey by Pure Profile of 1110 Australians, December 2023
What ID do I need to change ownership?
Identification requirements will vary between providers but typically you'll need:
- A primary ID such as an Australian driver's license or an Australian passport.
- A secondary ID which can include either of the above or your Medicare card, Defence Force ID or similar.
How long does change of ownership take?
Time frames will vary between providers and the complexity of your application.
To give you an idea, it can take Telstra and Optus up to 10 business days to transfer ownership. That is if there aren't any issues with the application.
How do you port a phone number?
After transferring the mobile number to your name, you can easily switch providers to get yourself on a better phone plan (or network) if you wish.
Read our guide to porting your number to get started.
Compare mobile plans and switch today
Take control of your new account and see if you can find a better deal in our mobile plan comparison table below.
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I’m having trouble porting my old number as it was opened in my girlfriend’s name as she has passed away/ I need all the information that was on it including contacts/ Centrelink and Medicare info
Hi John, Your best bet is to visit your plan provider (ed Vodafone or Optus) and ask for customer support.
I understand the information supplied about porting my phone number however how do I keep my current email address when the internet is bundled up with our phones through Telstra
Hi Marilyn,
If you moved your phone from Telstra but kept your internet with them, you would still be able to keep your Telstra email address.
If, however, you were leaving Telstra entirely and no longer had a phone, internet or any service with them, you can keep your Telstra email address free for the first 12 months after you leave if you let them know you want to keep it. If you wanted to keep your Telstra email address after those first 12 months, it costs $79 a year.
You can find more info here: https://www.telstra.com.au/content/dam/tcom/personal/help/pdf/cis-personal/broadband/personal-critical-information-summary-paid-email.pdf
Hope this helps.