13/05/2026
Your Phone Bill Is About to Increase: What’s Changing and What You Can Do
Many Australians will soon see their mobile phone bills go up, with all three major telcos — Telstra, Optus and Vodafone — announcing price rises at the same time. These increases affect a wide range of post‑paid plans, including some of the most common everyday options used by older adults.
What’s happening:
- Telcos are lifting monthly plan prices, in some cases by several dollars
- Some plans will include more data, but others are simply increasing in cost
- The changes are rolling out over the next few months, depending on your provider
For people on fixed incomes, even small increases can add up. Many older Australians stay on the same plan for years, so they may not realise they’re paying more than they need to.
Why it matters:
Mobile plans have become essential for banking, government services, and staying connected. When prices rise across all major providers at once, it becomes harder to compare options or switch to something more affordable.
What you can do:
- Check your current plan: Look at your bill to see what you’re paying and how much data you actually use
- Compare alternatives: Smaller providers often use the same networks but offer cheaper plans
- Avoid paying for unused data: Many people only use a fraction of what they’re being charged for
- Ask for help: If you’re unsure how to compare plans, bring your bill to a Switched on Seniors session. A quick review can save you money and help you stay connected without unnecessary costs.
How much more will you pay for mobile from May? Credit: A. C./Unsplash
