Compare postpaid mobile phone plans

Postpaid mobile phone plans make it easy to afford a new smartphone and get the most competitive call, text and data rates.

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Compare the best postpaid plans

We've preselected for a range of the latest smartphones, including the iPhone XS, the iPhone XR, the Samsung Galaxy S10 and the Huawei Mate 20 Pro on plans with at least 5GB of monthly data, but you can adjust for any phone or usage figure by clicking "Modify Results" to generate the right plan for your needs and compare against every postpaid contract plan in the market today.

What is a postpaid plan?

As the name suggests, postpaid plans require no upfront monthly payment, but instead rely on payment after a set period – usually a month – of usage. The amount you pay is generally based on both a set monthly minimum charge, as well as excess fees if you exceed your plan's included value.

Postpaid plans work on an accrual basis, with a predefined value of calls, texts and data which you can use for a set fee. There will also be excess usage charges if you go over your quota limits. These plans are contract-based, although the specifics of the contract terms can vary between telcos and even value tiers. Typically, postpaid plans will be offered on a monthly basis, or in 12 or 24-month variants.

Why would I choose a postpaid plan?

The key driver for postpaid plans is the ability to bundle in a new smartphone with your contract plan and pay off the cost of the phone over the term of the contract.

Most providers will subsidise the retail price of a handset when you sign up for a contract. That means that so as long as you're using the service and want that shiny new phone, it can be a solid way to break up the cost of owning a new device.

That said, it's worth doing your sums carefully to ensure that the value is there. A contract allows you to spread the lump sum cost of a new handset over a longer period rather than having to stump up the cash upfront, but it can end up costing you more in the long run.

Postpaid contract plans offer an easy, no-fuss way to access mobile services, because any additional use over and above your contract terms is automatically added to your account, to be paid at the end of each contract month. That means you never have to worry about running out of credit during a month, as you would with a prepaid plan.

Because you're generally signing up for a longer term period, the included calling, texts and data value is generally higher than for the same cost on a prepaid plan. If you're a heavy user, especially for data, a postpaid plan is often a good choice.

Pros & cons

Why would I choose a postpaid plan?


  • Provides better plans and offers
  • Variety of plans to choose from
  • Flexible repayment option on phone contract plans
  • Make unlimited call & SMS without worry of recharge


  • Locked in for 12 or 24 months
  • Surprise heavy usage bills
  • Often hidden charges

What are the downsides of postpaid plans?

While the data costs associated with contract phones are generally a little better than their prepaid counterparts, it's not always true that you'll always save money going on contract. Our Mobile Phone Plan Finder can assist you by comparing the total cost of a contract versus the same phone outright on a prepaid plan.

Prepaid vs contract plans

Do I have to bundle a smartphone with a postpaid plan?

Not at all. There are plenty of SIM-only plans that work in the same contractual way as postpaid plans but without the included handset repayment sections.

How should I compare postpaid plans?

  • Overall contract cost: The monthly charge for the service is laid out in the contract and is easy enough to compare, but it's the minimum full contract cost that's also worth considering. If you can buy a smartphone outright and get similar service on a cheaper prepaid plan, it may not be worth signing that contract.
  • Included extras: Many postpaid plans come with additional inclusions to tempt you, from bonus music streaming subscriptions, to frequent flyer points to bundled international calling provisions. Depending on your usage these may present great additional value, or alternatively be of little consequence in your overall buying decision.
  • Data charging: In the postpaid space, the number of plans that offer limited local call quantities is rapidly diminishing, replaced by "unlimited" call and text plans. Data is where most postpaid plans are genuinely differentiated. If you're busy on your smartphone, go for a plan with plenty of data, but also make sure you can easily buy data top-ups and that your provider counts data charges per KB block, rather than a larger amount as this will eat up your data quickly. Check out our guide to how different providers count data if you want to know more.
  • Network coverage: While there are numerous postpaid providers, they're all using one of just three networks, run by Telstra, Optus and Vodafone. Not all providers have access to those carrier's 4G networks, or the full network map. While network coverage maps are largely indicative rather than entirely accurate, they're a good gauge of overall coverage that can help you decide which provider to choose. Our guide to the difference between 3G and 4G covers this in more detail.
  • Roaming costs: Most postpaid plans will allow you to use your phone overseas, but the global roaming fees they charge can vary quite widely. If you travel regularly, check if you can buy international calls/texts/data packs for usage to avoid serious roaming bill shock. Because every postpaid plan simply accrues values based on your usage, the last thing you want to do is be faced with a hefty bill when you return from your overseas travel.

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4 Responses

  1. Default Gravatar
    HelenOctober 26, 2018

    I am happy with my plan at the moment just need a new phone why can’t l have it. I have been with them OPTUS for over 30 years l think it disgusting know a pensioner and am struggling with health issues.

    • Avatarfinder Customer Care
      JohnOctober 26, 2018Staff

      Hi Helen,

      Thank you for reaching out to finder.

      Optus does have a retention program in place for these types of situations. You may need to call their customer support number but I would not be able to guarantee this. Here is the number that you could dial: 13 39 37 Mon – Fri: 9am – 6pm. Hope this helps!


  2. Default Gravatar
    EveFebruary 11, 2016

    I have just ordered a phone with Vodafone and Qantas and I have to sign a form with you but I don’t know where it is

    • Default Gravatar
      BrodieMarch 1, 2016

      Hi Eve,

      You’ve come through to We’re an online comparison service that doesn’t represent Vodafone. I would recommend giving Voda’s customer service team call on 1300 650 410.


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