Mobile access costs money, but when money is tight, that can be a problem. Yet for folks in unfortunate situations, Telstra has some help on the way.
The cost of living hasn’t been kind to people in the past two years, and it seems like nothing escapes the price rises. More expensive media services are one, but so too are the price rises on mobile services, as the cost of downloads go up seemingly each and every year.
Not everyone can afford the cost of a service with their carrier of choice, and while it’s good to shop around, some situations make that still difficult.
Specifically, if you’re in a vulnerable situation, such as dealing with domestic violence, homelessness, natural disaster, or simply in need of financial assistance.
To assist, Telstra has noted that its “Top-Up” program for people in these situations is increasing, bumping from $160 to $180 worth of credit over six months, covering 70GB data on top of unlimited local calls and SMS.
Telstra noted that in the past year, a little over 18,000 Top-Up prepaid precharges were issued, with 30,000 available this year. The Top-Up essentially guarantees one pre-paid charge for a period of six months, with the freebie available through a text, online support message, or phone call to Telstra to find out how you can access the service.
While the news is positive for those who need it, it also comes amidst Telstra raises prices for customers on prepaid plans, increasing prices for what would ostensibly be what people use after the six month Top-Up has been depleted.
In prepaid situations, as with many other mobile plans, it’s worth noting that your phone number isn’t locked into service, and you can always shop around. Depending on where you find yourself now or in six months, that could be worth doing.
