Consumers should look to find the phone and plan that suits their needs.
There are two ways of buying a mobile phone:
- buy phone only, also known as outright
- sign up for a phone plan where you pay off the phone over a period of time.
Read all terms and conditions before buying or signing a contract.
Do not sign the contract or agree to buy the phone if:
- the sale does not suit your needs, or
- you are worried by any terms or conditions.
When buying a mobile phone you need to think about:
- why you need a phone
- how you will use it
- what conditions or plans are attached
- how much they will cost.
You should keep a copy of any receipts, contracts and any other paperwork relating to the sale or plan. You can refer to it later if you need.
Other items to consider when buying a mobile phone are:
- you often have to pay more to cancel a contract before it ends
- some service providers have extra charges for items such as;
- voicemail
- call-forwarding
- premium SMS
- internet browsing
- purchasing apps
- international roaming
- check with the service provider that you will get coverage in the areas you use your mobile phone
- there may be extra costs for going over your phone call or data allowance limit.
When things go wrong
Consumers should contact:
- the retailer or business where they bought the phone, or the service provider, to try and resolve the issue. You can lodge a complaint with CBOS
- if the problem cannot be fixed with the service provider or business, consumers can contact the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman
Related information
This page has been produced and published by the Consumer Building and Occupational Services Division of the Department of Justice. Although every care has been taken in production, no responsibility is accepted for the accuracy, completeness, or relevance to the user's purpose of the information. Those using it for whatever purpose are advised to verify it with the relevant government department, local government body or other source and to obtain any appropriate professional advice. The Crown, its officers, employees and agents do not accept liability however arising, including liability for negligence, for any loss resulting from the use of or reliance upon the information and/or reliance on its availability at any time.