Travelling to Australia and looking for a local SIM card? Vodafone Australia is one of the top mobile networks in the country and a great option for tourists. This guide will provide everything you need to know about Vodafone Australia SIM card or eSIM as a visitor to Australia.
Table of Contents
I. Quick Facts About Vodafone Australia
Vodafone is the 3rd largest mobile network in Australia with over 5 million subscribers. Some key facts about Vodafone Australia:
- Founded: 1992 as Eurotel, purchased by UK-based Vodafone Group in 2009.
- Full company name: Vodafone Hutchison Australia Pty Limited
- Services provided: Mobile (voice, text, data), mobile broadband, NBN internet, SIM-only plans, pay monthly plans, BYO plans etc.
- Number of subscribers: As of 2022, Vodafone has over 5.8 million mobile subscribers
- Customer support: Vodafone offers 24/7 telephone support in English and some other languages. Live chat and callback options are available on the website and Vodafone app. Support times are 7 days (7am-8pm)
Vodafone has been operating in Australia since 1993 and has extensive coverage across the country utilizing both its own network and domestic roaming on other networks like Optus.
II. Vodafone Coverage and Speed in Australia
Vodafone coverage in Australia
Vodafone is one of the major mobile network providers in Australia, serving over 10 million customers across the country. They operate on a 4G and 5G network that provides extensive coverage across urban, regional, and rural areas.
In major cities, its 4G network coverage reaches over 96% of the population. Cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth benefit from reliable indoor and outdoor coverage across both residential and commercial zones. High population density helps Vodafone deliver fast data speeds and seamless call and messaging connectivity in urban centers.
Vodafone has also launched 5G networks in select areas covering major cities. 5G coverage is expanding to provide faster speeds to customers with compatible devices.
Vodafone speed
Vodafone Australia operates one of the largest mobile networks in the country, providing extensive 4G and 5G coverage. According to the most recent network testing data, Vodafone delivered median download speeds of 137.9 Mbps across all technologies and locations. These speeds allow customers to enjoy high bandwidth activities on their phones and tablets.
While these speeds allow for fast data usage on the go, Vodafone trails the other two largest operators in Australia – Optus and Telstra. Optus measured as the fastest network overall, with median download speeds of 208.7 Mbps recorded in testing. So if you need high-speed internet, Optus would be a better suit.
III. Vodafone Connectivity Options For Travelers to Australia
When choosing a mobile connectivity option for an Australia trip, pocket WiFi or roaming on your home cellular plan provide alternatives, a prepaid Vodafone SIM allows affordable access to fast 4G/5G speeds across the extensive network coverage areas. Follow the details below to find the best.
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Vodafone SIM Card | – Affordable data bundles for trips | – Need compatible phone |
| – Can buy before travel | – Reaching coverage in some remote areas | |
| – Retain local mobile number | ||
| Pocket WiFi | – Covers multiple devices | – Higher cost than SIM |
| – No need to swap SIM cards | – Return shipping if rented | |
| Roaming (use home plan) | – Familiar number and plan | – Very expensive data usage |
| – No need to purchase local SIM | – Speeds may be slower than local SIM |
Overall, a SIM enables retaining one’s regular number yet gaining flexibility to stay connected seamlessly around the country. For short-term visitors looking for simplicity and savings during their Australia travel, purchasing a Vodafone SIM card upon arrival is generally the best telecom option
IV. Best Vodafone Australia SIM Card for Tourists & Cost
Vodafone has some great value prepaid SIM packs for tourists visiting Australia:
| Plan | Recharge Amount | Data Allowance | Call/Text Allowances | Expiry Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prepaid Plus Starter Pack | $35 | 45GB | 500 mins to Zone 1, 50 international texts | 28 days |
| Prepaid Plus Starter Pack | $45 | 65GB | Unlimited to Zone 1, 100 mins to Zone 2, 50 international texts | 28 days |
| Prepaid Plus Starter Pack | $55 | 85GB | Unlimited to Zone 1, 200 mins to Zone 2, 50 international texts | 28 days |
Both packs are excellent choices for short term tourists in Australia and allow enjoying Vodafone’s fast 4G/5G networks across the country. Vodafone offers a variety of affordable prepaid SIM cards that provide great connectivity options for tourists visiting Australia.
V. Where Can you Buy a Vodafone Australia SIM card/eSIM?
Where to buy Vodafone SIM card
As a tourist, you can purchase a Vodafone Australia SIM card from the following places across Australia:
- Vodafone Stores – Vodafone has 180+ retail stores in all major cities and airports where you can buy SIM card packs. Locate nearest store.
- Supermarkets – Coles, Woolworths supermarkets sell prepaid SIM card packs from Vodafone and other networks.
- Airport – Vodafone SIM card kiosks.
- Online – Vodafone AU website lets you order SIM card delivery worldwide.
Note: When buying, remember to carry your passport as ID proof. ATMs are available for payment. Avoid airport shops as they can be overpriced.
Where to buy Vodafone eSIM
Vodafone Australia does now offer support for eSIM, allowing activation of prepaid plans on eSIM compatible smartphones like latest iPhones and Android phones. Instead of physical SIM, you can directly download and activate Vodafone eSIM profile digitally on phone. This avoids the need to find and insert a nano SIM card.
Here are the options for buying a Vodafone eSIM in Australia:
- Online via the Vodafone website – This is the most common way. You’ll need an eligible device and can purchase a prepaid or postpaid plan for eSIM activation.
- In-store – Visit a flagship Vodafone retail location in major cities. Sales representatives have iPads available to digitally activate your eSIM purchase on the spot.
Vodafone eSIM activation usually takes only a few minutes once payment is completed. You’ll need to ensure your device is eSIM compatible before purchasing a plan this way.
VI. How to Activate Vodafone SIM card/eSIM
Activating Vodafone SIM or eSIM is easy whether you buy it online or from local Australian stores during your visit.
How to use Vodafone SIM card
Follow these steps to activate your Vodafone SIM card:
- Insert SIM in unlocked phone. Power it on.
- A Vodafone splash screen will appear. Select preferred language.
- Choose a prepaid plan & enter payment details to recharge account.
- Follow prompts to enter your personal details for verification.
- Once activated, main account balance, data balance & validity will be SMSed.
- You can now start using mobile internet, calls & SMS in Australia.
How to activate Vodafone eSIM
To activate Vodafone eSIM profile on your phone:
- Make sure your phone has eSIM functionality enabled and no other eSIM is active.
- Enter eSIM voucher code emailed to you on Vodafone eSIM activation page.
- Follow onscreen instructions to download Vodafone eSIM profile and activate it.
- Select prepaid plan of choice and make payment to recharge account.
- Verify your identity by entering personal details as prompted.
- On successful activation, account balances will be SMSed. Enjoy using Vodafone eSIM!
Activating eSIM is quick and avoids inserting any physical SIM card. Remember to delete eSIM profile before leaving Australia to avoid roaming fees.
VII. Vodafone Australia Call & SMS Rates
Vodafone Australia has competitive call and text rates when on prepaid plans:
| Type of Call/SMS | Rate |
|---|---|
| Calls to Australian numbers | $0.17 per minute beyond inclusions |
| Calls to international landlines | Starting from $1 per minute |
| Calls to international mobiles | Starting from $1.50 per minute |
| Video calls within Australia | Same as regular calls |
| Video calls internationally | $2 per minute |
| Standard SMS within Australia | $0.17 each beyond inclusions |
| SMS to international mobiles | Starting from $0.51 each |
| Data usage | Starting from $10 per 1GB beyond plan |
| Call connection fee | $0.27 addition to per minute rates |
| Directory assistance | $1.10 connection + $2.75 per minute |
Unlimited call packs are better value for heavy voice usage. Rates are reasonable for a tourist exploring Australia.
VIII. How to Top-up Vodafone SIM/eSIM
You can recharge your Vodafone prepaid account using:
- Online via the Vodafone website – Credit and debit card payments accepted. Funds are added instantly.
- Vodafone Mobile App – Top up your account on the go with credit/debit card or PayPal. Instant top up.
- In-store – Visit Vodafone retail locations and top up with cash, EFTPOS, or credit/debit card.
Auto top up can also be enabled on monthly basis to avoid running out of credit. Overall recharging Vodafone SIM is very convenient.
IX. Alternatives to Vodafone Australia
Some alternatives to consider instead of Vodafone during your travel in Australia:
- Optus – Optus is considered the best alternative to Vodafone. It has extensive 4G and 5G coverage across major cities and regions. Optus is well-known for offering very competitive plans with large data allowances at affordable prices.
- Telstra – Telstra is one of the Australia’s largest telecommunications company which offers reliable nationwide 4GX and 5G coverage. However, their plans are more expensive compared to other providers.
Another option recommended for tourist is eSIM. With australia-esim.com, travelers can experience Optus’ fast and wide-reaching network without the hassle of purchasing and switching physical SIM cards. By getting eSIM from australia-esim.com, visitors to Australia can stay smoothly connected to Optus’ high-quality network wherever they travel nationwide. It’s a hassle-free and affordable option worth considering.
X. FAQs about Vodafone in Australia
Does Vodafone have good coverage in Australia?
Yes, Vodafone claims to cover 96% of population in AU with its own 4G network. It also uses 3G/4G roaming on Optus in rural areas. Overall coverage is quite extensive.
Is Vodafone fast for mobile internet?
Vodafone offers average speeds of 35Mbps on 4G rising upto 200Mbps+ on its 5G networks. This is sufficient for everyday tourist usage.
Can I use Vodafone SIM in another country?
Vodafone prepaid SIM gets deactivated if unused in Australia for 2-3 months. It cannot be used directly abroad except for roaming.
How long is Vodafone tourist SIM valid?
Vodafone prepaid SIM packs come with 30 day validity period. You need to recharge before it expires to extend validity.
XI. Final Words
Vodafone is an good choice of prepaid SIM card or eSIM for tourists visiting Australia. It offers great value plans with generous data, extensive local coverage, 5G speeds and easy online/offline recharge options. However, for international travelers, Australia-esim.com provides a more convenient and cost-effective solution
