Prepaid SIM (Data or Voice) - Australia
 

I have searched and with no luck on this clunky app have not been able to find a string.

But my question is this. Taking our annual trip to visit wife's family in Sydney. Thinking about taking my Verizon iPhone 5 instead of borrowing in-laws cell while there.

Is it as truly simple as buying a prepaid SIM and install and go? I have seen conflicting articles.

Anyone have real world experience

Thoughts and opinions would be welcome.

Thanks

Chris

I would suggest you call Vz global support to double check: 908 559-4899. At the very worst, they'll unlock for you. Or if you have a sim card laying around, try it out stateside.

The VZW IPhone 5 is unlocked out of the box. No need to call to unlock like the iPhone 4S. For voice/SMS it will work out of the box upon insertion of an activated SIM card worldwide. For data depending on the SIM card it can be automatic (there is a automated script on the card by the carrier) or manual (manual configuration of the APN settings). If you are not a techie and don't want to mess with APN settings by connecting to WiFi and using a certain website I suggest using voice/SMS only.

Verizon iphone5 in Australia
 

Cool. So it is pretty simple. Just need to figure out what network to use when I am down there or try to remember what my in-laws use.

The Verizon iPhone 5 is mostly unlocked. You should be able to slip in a SIM (I suggest the $30 Kogan or Telstra plans).

Here's proof:
http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/21/v...-mobile-video/
http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/archive/1985462

There are three main (not virtual) networks in Australia -- Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone. Telstra is the best network, Optus is #2, and Vodafone has been sadly lagging behind in a distant third place. Recently, Vodafone has stepped up its game a bit.

One issue you could run into is registration. Some places don't ask for any ID, most will happily accept a foreign passport, and one or two places demand proof of residency. If you run into Group 3, argue a little and then vote with your feet. The next store will sell you.

The best place to learn about Australian cellular is:

http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum/114

Most SIMs are scripted to automatically install the appropriate access point on an iPhone. If you run into the exception, you can get the configurations here:

http://www.unlockit.co.nz/mobilesettings/

Let's rename this thread and make it the official new prepaid SIM for Australia thread.

I've picked up both Telstra & Optus prepaid SIMs with no registration information. You can get the SIMs at the company stores, newsagents, and many grocery stores. Usually you buy a package which has the SIM and a phone number for a couple of bucks then purchase a voucher for additional time. My Telstra phone is a bit expensive at 10c per minute but am thinking of trying the Woolworth's branded Optus SIM when I'm there next month.

http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm...gmobileprepaid

Interesting. As far as I know, there is a requirement to identify and register the purchaser, typically using a drivers licence for AUS residents, for security/policing reasons. As we all know, mobile phones can be used in all kinds of illegal and life-threatening uses. Creating the link between purchaser and SIM is helpful, especially when linked to phone/SIM tracking.

My understanding is that if you have the SIM delivered to your flat, you don't need to additionally verify it, but if it is a cash and carry transaction, some ID is required.

See, eg:

https://www.myvodafone.com.au/regist...dSim/login.jsp
(read Step 3)

http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/archive/1869442

http://www.comlaw.gov.au/Details/F2005C00313
(page 25 of the PDF)

A foreign passport should be deemed a category A document, but as I've said I've heard a few clerks say it wasn't.

I believe you are correct in that IIRC 100 points of ID should be required...

Pragmatically it is not enforced by many many outlets. I've purchased $20/$30 starter packs with SIMs at: Coles, Servos, and even paid cash at the Telstra shop at SYD airport T3 last year without any form of ID. You can find them on ebay.com.au and pay with a prepaid credit card.

Just guessing that not too many people care since it hasn't presented a major security risk so far.

Also on that whirlpool.net.au website you'll find many people who also have purchased SIMs without ID.

I agree that it is generally not enforced. I was just prepping people to encounter some inconsistency in that department and that you don't succeed "try, try again." You won't have to go the end of the block before two or three people sell you the SIM.

Any comment about Amaysim?

My best friend and his entire family switched to Amaysim from Telstra (prepaid). They live in the Brisbane CBD. The wife works for Queensland Health and travels around a bit. The son goes to school in the suburbs and teaches sailing (so he is off coast by several miles going up and down the coast). They have not had any problems whatsoever and are delighted with their savings.

Amaysim uses the Optus network which is solid, but as noted before Telstra seems to be the choice of people who can't bear to be without coverage anywhere. The other issue is that there is cross-network roaming in Australia, but it is generally surcharged.

Thank you!