You can use roaming on your home plan, or buy an Australian prepaid SIM. If you buy a local SIM, two things are different from many other countries: the identity check, and the end of 3G.
The identity check
By law, telcos must collect your name, date of birth and address and check your identity when you activate a prepaid mobile service. A passport issued in your name is one of the accepted documents — it does not have to be an Australian passport. The document must not have expired.
Telcos can also verify identity by other methods, such as a government document check, an existing account, a card transaction or an accredited Digital ID service. How a particular provider does it — in store or online — is up to the provider.
Check your phone first
Australia's 3G networks have been switched off. 3G-only phones no longer work at all, and some 4G phones that rely on 3G for calls cannot make voice calls or reach emergency services. Older 4G phones and phones bought overseas are the most at risk. Telcos must not connect a phone that they identify as unable to call Triple Zero (000).
- Ask the provider to confirm your model works on its 4G/5G network and supports VoLTE calling before you pay
- Do not test emergency calling by dialling 000
The prepaid ID rules are under review by the regulator (ACMA) in 2026. The basics — an ID check, with a passport accepted — have applied for years.
Source: ACMA — ID checks for prepaid mobiles
Source: ACMA — Ensuring mobiles can reach 000 after the 3G shutdown
Common questions
Can I buy an Australian SIM card with a foreign passport?
Yes. A passport issued in your name is an accepted identity document for activating a prepaid service. It must not have expired.
Will my phone from home work in Australia?
Most recent phones do, but 3G networks have closed. Older 4G phones and some phones bought overseas may not be able to make calls or reach 000 — ask the provider to check your model.
More on the eVisitor
Emergency numbers
Call 000 for police, fire or ambulance; 112 works from mobiles. 911 is not redirected. Non-urgent police: 131 444. An interpreter is arranged if needed.
Plugs and voltage
Australia uses a plug with two flat pins in an inverted V (Type I) and 230 V, 50 Hz. Check your charger's label before you plug in.
Money, cards and tipping
Prices include 10% GST, card surcharges are banned from 1 October 2026, and tipping is optional. Cash of AUD 10,000+ must be declared.
Public holidays
Each state and territory sets its own public holidays. The dates that apply everywhere, the ones that differ, and what it means for your trip.
Driving
Each state sets its own rules: NSW allows up to 6 months on an overseas licence, the NT 3. Non-English licences need a translation or an IDP.
What is the eVisitor
The eVisitor is a full visitor visa granted electronically to holders of eligible European passports. What it covers and how it differs from the ETA.