Before you buy a mobile phone

Australians love their smartphones and mobile devices and enjoy the benefits of mobile technology in their lives.

However, with such a wide range of phones and other devices as well as service contracts available, it is important to be an informed consumer before you make a decision to buy.

Some things to consider before you buy a mobile phone:

• The Telecommunications Consumer Protections (TCP) Code protects your rights as a mobile consumer.
• Your service provider is obliged under the TCP Code to provide you with a Critical Information Summary (CIS) that summarises the key terms and conditions of your offer. Make sure you review the CIS carefully and ask questions if there is anything you don’t understand.
• Buying a mobile phone can involve a fairly significant financial commitment over the length of a contract that may last from 12-24 months. Take your time and make sure you understand all the terms and conditions included in the offer.
• Read our tips relating to coverage to make sure that your mobile will work where you need it to – at home, at work, on holiday or other places you visit regularly.
• Make sure you understand and are comfortable with everything before signing. Remember: whoever signs a contract is ultimately responsible for ensuring that the terms and conditions of the contract are met. So don’t sign a contract for someone else unless you’re prepared to pay ALL their bills for the full term of the contract.
• If you have any doubts, consider an appropriate prepaid option as first step. It will help you work out your usage patterns and once you are more informed about what you require in terms of data, calls and SMS, you can always switch to a post-paid plan or contract.
• Make sure you are purchasing a genuine device that will work safely and reliably in Australia.

Further information:

Telecommunications Consumer Protections Code