Vodafone hikes mobile plan prices – is it still cheaper than Telstra and Optus?
Vodafone's SIM only plans will now cost an extra $48 a year.
Vodafone's mobile plans are getting more expensive by $4 a month but the telco's also giving more data in return.
Luckily existing users will not be impacted as long as they stick to their current plan.
Here's a look at the changes across its 3 SIM only plans:
| Previous price and data | New price and data |
|---|---|
| $45 for 40GB | $49 for 50GB |
| $55 for 150GB | $59 for 180GB |
| $65 for 300GB | $69 for 360GB |
This makes Vodafone the last of the major telcos to raise its mobile plan prices after both Telstra and Optus hiked theirs in July 2023, adding to the cost of living pressures.
"This news isn't shocking. Vodafone tends to update its pricing a few months after Optus and Telstra. It did the same last year. Yes they've now added more data to each of their plans alongside the price increase, but given the average Aussie uses 12.8GB a month, the additional data will likely be wasted by most people." Finder's tech and utilities expert Mariam Gabaji
Are Vodafone's mobile plans still worth it?
While the price of Vodafone's plans has gone up, the cost per GB works out to be better compared to the old plans.
Interestingly, Vodafone's prices are now the same as Optus's small, medium and large SIM only plans. The point of difference is Vodafone offers more data in return.
Telstra remains the more expensive provider of the lot. The starting price of its entry-level SIM only plan is $62 a month for 50GB.
Keep in mind though, Vodafone's mobile coverage is less than Telstra and Optus and may not suit those living in rural or regional Australia.
If that's not an issue and you want to go with a major telco that offers a generous data allowance at a decent price, then Vodafone may still suit your needs.
Plus you'll also get:
- No excess data charges. Your speeds will get slowed to 2Mbps however if you've used your data allowance.
- Unlimited international texts. Plus 300 minutes on the $59 plan and above.
- A $5 a day roaming add-on to your plan. This allows you to use your mobile plan overseas.
How can I save on my mobile plan?
If you've made a New Year's resolution to save money on your phone plan in 2024 and Vodafone's price rise has thrown a spanner in the works, then there are still options available.
You're able to get mobile plans for as little as $20 a month or under from smaller providers.
Calculate how much data you need before comparing mobile plans to find one best suited to your budget and requirements.