Activate and start my Pre-Paid service
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To get started with your Pre-Paid service, you'll need to insert your new SIM card into your phone. If you’re activating an eSIM, head to our eSIM activation support page for more information.
To activate a physical Pre-Paid SIM card, go to activate your service and follow the prompts. Once active, you may need to recharge your Pre-Paid as well.
New activations and mobile transfers are typically completed within four business hours, but most of our customers get up and running much sooner. If we need more information to get your service going, we'll be in touch.
We can transfer your mobile during standard operating hours:
Our standard operating hours
- Monday - Saturday: 7am to 11pm (AEST)
- Sunday: 10am to 6pm (AEST)
- Easter Monday, King’s Birthday and Boxing Day: 10am to 6pm (AEST).
Outside of these times, your transfer will commence the next business day.
Afterwards, if you are new to Telstra you'll need to finish setting up your Telstra ID before you can use it to sign in to the My Telstra app and manage your service. From there, you’ll be able to top up your recharge, troubleshoot any issues, and more.
Frequently asked questions
Once your order has been shipped, you should receive it the next day (if you place your order before 2pm), or in 3-5 business days, depending on your location:
- In metro areas– we aim to deliver the next day if you place your order before 2pm AEST between Monday and Friday. Add 1 business day if you placed your order after 2pm
- In non-metro areas– we aim to deliver in 3-4 business days
Yes. If you want to transfer your existing number to Telstra, a process known as ‘porting’, keep the SIM from your current provider in your phone until your service is disconnected. For instructions and more information, head to our support page for transferring a mobile number to a Telstra service.
Your service with your previous provider will stop working. We'll also send you an SMS or email as soon as your number has been moved to Telstra.
If you're using your own device, you should first check:
- Which size SIM card you’ll need. If you're not sure check the manufacturer's website or guide, or find a store
- That your device is unlocked and compatible with the Telstra 4G/5G mobile network and is able to make emergency calls, including 000. Some devices are locked to other providers. You’ll need to contact your provider to have your phone unlocked and you may be charged an unlocking fee for this
- That you have the correct data settings. These let you browse the internet, send emails or MMS. Many mobiles will have their settings updated automatically over the Telstra network. To find out if your settings are updated automatically, visit device guides or check the manufacturer's website.
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