Good news for Optus and Vodafone mobile network users

If you have a mobile phone plan with Optus or Vodafone (or another provider using one of their networks), some exciting changes are on the horizon.

Earlier this year, Optus and TPG (owner of Vodafone) announced they will be sharing network coverage in regional and rural Australia, ensuring better and broader-reaching service for both.

The deal has now been approved by the ACCC and is due to be implemented by early 2025.

We spoke to Jamie and Peter from Cmobile, our resident local phone experts, to learn what this means for Australian mobile users.

Who will benefit? 

In short: an enormous number of Australians. This won’t just improve coverage for Optus and Vodafone customers, but also those with other phone plan providers that use the same infrastructure.

“Traditionally, the Vodafone network has been great for city and metropolitan areas but not so good in regional Australia,” explains Jamie.

“This deal increases the Vodafone network coverage footprint to 98.4%. This effectively more than doubles the network coverage footprint from around 400,000 to 1,000,000 square kilometres and adds 2000 new network sites.”

Peter adds that this change will be instant and automatic. “You will not need a new SIM or a new handset to access the improved network coverage,” he says.

“When the network sharing arrangement is switched on in early 2025, it should be available to all customers immediately with no disruption to services.”

The good news for budget-savvy Australians

This upgrade will mean the low-cost C Red plan, which Starts at 60 readers can secure for an exclusive $9.90 per month, who will soon see a huge increase in coverage in remote regions.

“Basically, where there is Optus coverage, there will also be coverage for our C Red customers,” says Jamie.

This means Australians in previously low-coverage areas will be free to shop more widely and choose a provider that offers more bang for their buck.

It’s also great news for frequent travellers and grey nomads who want to stay connected on the road.

For those looking for maximum coverage across the country, Cmobile also offers discounted C Blue plans using the Telstra network.

If you’re interested in reducing your phone bill, simply fill out the form below. A friendly local Cmobile team member will be in touch to discuss the best option for you.

There are no lock-in contracts, you can keep your current number, and you’ll have the support of an award-winning, 100% Australia-based team.

Or click here to book one of their phone plans online, here and now, within minutes!

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