IDLE AUSSIES ON LAPSED MOBILE PLANS LOSING HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS

– Optus shows customers how to get more bang for their buck by shopping around –

New Optus data shows that Aussies can save hundreds of dollars a year by shopping around for a better mobile plan when their contract ends.

Many Aussies initially sign up for a 24 month contract to get the latest mobile phone. What many people may not realise is that when their two year contract is up, they own their phone and can take it with them to shop around for a better deal.

Optus research shows that 60% of Australians would prefer to keep their mobile phone for more than 24 months[1]. In fact, on average, consumers want to upgrade their phones every 32 months[2].

Ben White, Vice President of Mobile Marketing, at Optus, said, “We know how much customers love their phones and many tell us they don’t want the hassle of upgrading to a new model every time they switch plans. So, if you’re happy to keep your phone, take it with you and shop around for a better deal.

“Optus’ SIM Only plans allow customers to bring their much-loved phones to a new, month-to-month postpaid plan where they will get fantastic benefits like more talk and more data, plus the ability to share their increased data across multiple devices. We encourage Aussies to do their research and find a plan that’s right for them.”

Savvy Shoppers

Optus insights reveal not all customers think alike[3]:

• Those on more expensive plans waste no time in shopping around for a better deal once their contract comes to an end[4]
• Customers on plans that cost less than $80 a month tend to be complacent and more likely to keep rolling with their existing contract without action
• 18-24 year olds are more likely to want the latest mobile phone and tend to be more conscious of price
• By contrast, 25-34 year olds are more likely to consider their options and tend to look for a better deal, not necessarily the latest phone
• Customers over 65 tend not be as concerned with new technology and are happy to stay with their existing phones

Sarah Riegelhuth, Co-founder of Wealth Enhancers and personal finance expert, said, “You wouldn’t get to the end of your car insurance policy and not shop around. The same should apply to your phone contract. There are loads of mobile plans available so it’s worth researching them. You’re looking for more than you had before, potentially saving a little cash in the process.

“Knowledge is key. Take the time to do your homework and have an understanding of how you need to use your phone and then find a plan to match. And find out when your contract ends, so you know the best time to act.”

Switch and Save

Consumers who ‘switch’ their plans to Optus can potentially save hundreds of dollars a year.

As an example, a customer switching to Optus and taking a new phone on one of our most popular 24 month My Plans would pay $60 per month plus $9 monthly phone repayments. Over a year they would pay $828 and get unlimited standard national calls, texts and 2GB of data per month.

However, if they brought their own phone and moved to an Optus SIM Only plan for $45 per month, they get the same inclusions and the additional benefit of a no lock-in contract, but only pay $540 per year – saving $288[5] a year!

“Whichever way you look at it, customers can get a great deal with Optus, particularly if they’re willing to bring their own phone,” said Mr White.

Tips to help choose the right plan:

• Take your phone bills from the last three months in store so an Optus representative can help you find the best plan to suit your needs.
• Find out when your contract ends by looking online or calling your provider. Start shopping around for a better deal at least three months before your contract is up.
• Once your contract ends your mobile is yours. If you’re happy with your phone, consider moving to a SIM only plan that offers added benefits without a lock-in contract.
• It’s not just about the money, look at what’s included, such as more talk and more data.

Infographic – Optus shows customers how to get more bang for their buck

Contact Details:

Fuel Communications: 02 8217 6500

Optus@fuelcommunications.com.au

[1] Ergo research commissioned by Optus, 23 July 2013.

[2]Ergo research commissioned by Optus, 23 July 2013.

[3]Optus insights data from November 2012 to June 2014.

[4] Optus postpaid plans of $80 per month and above.

[5] Based on Optus $60 My Plan Plus with $9 monthly handset repayments for a Samsung Galaxy S5 and Optus $45 My Plan SIM only.