Telstra is offering Australians in need up to six months of free prepaid mobile service with 70GB valued at $160.
The free service is available through its Top Up program. Top Up is delivered in partnership with Infoxchange to support vulnerable Australians with free mobile plans so that they can stay connected with essential services and keep in touch with family. Previously, Telstra offered three $40 recharges that each lasted 28 days.
Telstra aims to increase its investment in the program to $5 million by June 2024 with the goal of supporting 30,000 people.
Who is eligible for the Telstra Top Up program?
While initially directed at helping Aussies experiencing homelessness, domestic violence and natural disasters, the Top Up program will now also be available to more groups in need of financial assistance. This includes First Nations people and those who experience food insecurity, mental health challenges, disability, or who are refugees.
How can you access Telstra Top Up?
The Telstra Top Up program is available through various community agencies such as Safe Steps, Anglicare, Salvation Army, Save The Children, and Uniting Care who partner with Infoxchange. There are over 750 state-based organisations that offer the program.
To qualify you will either need:
- An existing Telstra prepaid mobile service, or
- To connect a new Telstra prepaid mobile service (starter kits are available from Telstra and retailers from $2)
You can't have received a Top Up already in the same Financial Year.
Top Up is not available to customers who a "Casual" Telstra prepaid plan.
The $160 recharge is applied on top of any credit you already have. When that expires. the $160 Top Up recharge will start.
You can find a participating community agency in your area by visiting Ask Izzy and typing Telstra into the search bar.
Ask Izzy is a search tool provided by Infoxchange to help you find a wide range of support services. Ask Izzy is free and anonymous.
Other support options for Telstra customers
Telstra customers can also access short and long-term support through the MyTelstra App or by calling 1800 531 951 on weekdays between 8am and 6:30pm AEST.
Support can include things like:
- Flexible payment extensions
- Concession Card discounts
- Waiving of fees (on a case-by-case basis)
- A plan review to make sure you're getting the best value
- Long term support
You can find more information on Telstra's financial assistance and support page.
Dylan Crismale
Digital Content Editor
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