Additional Products
Telstra has a range of products and services that may make using the standard telephone service easier for customers with a disability, in addition to the products available through Telstra's Disability Equipment Program.
For further information, including prices and conditions, call 13 2200 or visit your nearest Telstra Shop.
Please note additional charges may apply for some products.
- Telephone Options and Answering Machines
- Rental Telephones
- Fax Options
- Homeline™
- Mobile
- Payphones
- Internet
- Directories
- Billing Options
Telephone Options and Answering Machines
Extension Ringer
A small ringer with an in-built flashing light and variable ring tone. It is supplied with a 10 metre extension cord which allows you to position the ringer where it is most convenient. You can also adjust the ring volume and pitch.
Cordless Phones
Telstra has a range of cordless phones available for purchase through Telstra Shops. If you have difficulty getting to the telephone or miss calls due to a hearing impairment, a cordless phone may provide the solution.
Answering Machines
If you're missing calls due to a mobility or hearing impairment, an answering machine may be of benefit. A pre-recorded message advises callers to leave a message for you - making it a useful option for the speech impaired.
Rental Telephones
Telstra Standard Rental Phone - T1000S
Telstra's standard rental phone is the T1000S. This phone replaces the Touchfone® 400. The new design T1000S has a number of features that make it easy to use for people with vision and dexterity impairments. The improved adjustable ring volume and control features for incoming calls make this phone more accessible.
Features:
- New improved design
- Improved keypad button spacing
- Tactile marker on the '5' key
- In-built hearing aid coupler
- 10 programmable one-touch memory-storage buttons for easy dialling
- Telstra Voice Assistant button (1#) that allows you to control some phone features using your voice
- Adjustable ring volume
- Adjustable volume control to amplify incoming speech
Telstra T1000C Calling Number Display Rental Phone
From 21 July 2003, the T1000C Calling Number Display (CND) phone will be available as an alternative to the T1000S standard rental phone. This phone replaces the Calling Number Display (CND) Rental Touchfone. The T1000C includes the same features as the T1000S with an additional Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) to let you know who is calling*. It also includes a wall mounting bracket.
Features:
- All the features of the T1000S plus Calling Number Display capability
- Onhook pre-dial feature
- Flashing light message indicator
Note: Additional charges apply to subscribe to the Telstra Calling Number Display feature. An optional power pack is required to access the pre-dial and flashing message indicator features. Contact 13 2200 for more information.
* Not available for blocked calls.
New Big Button Cordless Phone
Our new Big Button Cordless Phone is available through Telstra Shops. With its larger keypad buttons, this phone may make dialling easier for people with a vision or dexterity impairment or for people who have trouble getting to the phone in time to answer it.
Features:
- Huge buttons
- Hands free function- Large, high contrast lettering
- Tactile key marker on the '5' key
- Adjustable ring- Volume control for incoming speech
- Hearing Aid compatible
- Visual Ring Indicator
Fax Options
Facsimile (fax) Machines
Fax machines allow you to send written or printed documents over the telephone network to another fax machine or computer with a fax modem. If you have a hearing or speech impairment that prevents you using the telephone, this provides an alternative means of communication. There are many models that you can choose from, the right one for you will depend on your needs.
Duet® - Phone & Fax Multiple Number^
Duet - Phone & Fax Multiple Number lets you have a phone number and a fax number on the one telephone line. This is a useful option where there are multiple phone users in the one household who have different communication needs and require both a fax and telephone handset.
^ Duet compatible fax machine required. Monthly charges apply. Available in most areas.
Homeline®
Options
Telstra offers a range of different calling plans dependent on how you use your telephone.
- HomeLine® Plus is a great plan if you make frequent calls to local, mobile, STD® or International numbers from your home phone
- HomeLine® Plus - Everyday STD® Option allows you to make STD calls at any time for one capped rate per call for up to 3 hours, if you have already joined HomeLine™ Plus^^^
- HomeLine® Complete can be the plan for you if you make only occasional STD, home to mobile or International calls
- HomeLine® Budget is our plan with the lowest monthly line rental, with higher call prices. This service is designed for residential customers who have one fixed line service and can be the plan for you if you make few calls but want the convenience of a HomeLine™ option.
^^^ Capped calls revert back to relevant per minute rates after 3 hours.
Features
Homeline® Features are available to be used on most phones∞. For more information, call 13 2200.
∞ Available on tone phones in most areas. Some features attract usage charges. Additional monthly rental charges apply for HomeLine™ customers
Call Return#
If you've just missed a call or have difficulty getting to the phone quickly, Call Return may assist you. You can find out the telephone number of the last person who called you and if you wish, return the call.
# A Call Return usage charge applies to retrieve the number of your last unanswered call. Normal call charges apply if you return the call. Not available for blocked calls. Additional monthly access charge applies to HomeLine™ Net customers.
Call Waiting##
Call Waiting lets you take a second incoming call by putting your first caller on hold.
## Monthly charge applies to HomeLine™ Net customers.
3-Way Chat^
Three people can have a group conversation at once saving separate calls backwards and forwards. This may also be helpful if you have a speech or communication impairment and require assistance to conduct a telephone conversation.
^A 3 Way Chat usage charge applies per successful use and normal call charges apply. Additional monthly access charge applies to HomeLine™ Net customers.
Call Back+
If the number you're calling is engaged, Call Back re-dials the number and can let you know when the line is free. Call Back saves you from redialling.
+ A Call Back usage charge applies per successful use and normal call charges apply. Additional monthly access charge applies to HomeLine™ Net customers.
Call Forward***
Call Forward allows you to forward your calls to your mobile or another phone.
***Normal call charges apply for forwarded calls. Calls can be forwarded to most numbers in Australia. Monthly access charge applies to HomeLine™ Net customers.
Calling Number Display^^
Calling Number Display allows you to identify who is calling by displaying the caller's telephone number. This network feature also keeps the telephone number of the person calling you if you are unable to answer the call, enabling you to ring back at a later time.
^^Monthly rental charges apply. Not available for blocked calls.
MessageBank®**
MessageBank is your 24 hours, 7 days a week answering service. MessageBank can be particularly useful if you have a speech impairment, as you can invite customers to leave a message. Equally if you have difficulty hearing the telephone ring, or getting to the telephone quickly you won't miss important calls.
**Monthly rental charges apply.
Delayed Hotline**
Allows you to call your most frequently dialled number without dialling. Just pick up the phone, wait four seconds, and the number is dialled automatically. This feature can be useful to store a number for emergencies, or your most frequently called number, if you have difficulty with dialling numbers.
**Monthly rental charges apply.
Abbreviated Dialling**
You can choose to store up to 60 of your most frequently used telephone numbers in the telephone exchange memory, including long distance numbers. Then you can dial these numbers using a simple one or two digit code. This product can be very helpful for people with a mobility impairment who have difficulty dialling numbers.
**Monthly rental charges apply.
Smart Ring**
With Smart Ring you'll be able to tell who the call is for by the sound of the telephone's ring - ideal for multi-need households.
**Monthly rental charges apply.
1# Telstra Feature Assistant*
Telstra's new voice activated 1# Feature Assistant makes Call Forward*** and Call Waiting## even easier to use.
*Available to Telstra basic access/local call customers from most tone phones.
***Normal call charges apply for forwarded calls. Calls can
be forwarded to most numbers in Australia.
##Monthly call charge applies to HomeLine™ Net customers.
Telstra Home Messages 101
Telstra Home Messages 101 is a simple to use FREE home messaging service. There is no charge to activate the service or to retrieve the messages. This service is available to Telstra local call customers on most home phones and allows you to receive messages when you are away from your phone, on another call or dialled up to the Internet. Telstra Home Messages 101 is particularly useful if you have a speech impairment, as it has a standard greeting requesting callers to leave a message. Telstra Home Messages 101 can be activated on your Telstra home phone right now by dialling 101.
Telstra Mobile
Telstra Mobile customer service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year to provide you with assistance. Call 125 111 for more information.
Hearing aids, Cochlear Implants and Mobile Phones
Mobile phones provide a convenient means of keeping in touch and have become an important part of daily life. If you are one of over 450,000 Australians who wears a hearing aid#, there are some things you need to know about your hearing aid and mobile phones.
Australian Hearing/National Acoustics Laboratories has published a brochure 'Hearing aids and mobile phones'. This brochure provides information about how hearing aids work and how in some cases, hearing aids can be affected by certain radio signals from some mobile phones, which may result in an audible buzz. The brochure also provides tips on purchasing both a hearing aid and a mobile phone to minimise/eliminate any potential for interference, and contact details for more information.
The brochure explains that most hearing aid users who can successfully use a normal fixed line phone or have used a Telstra CDMA mobile phone in the past, can successfully use a 3G mobile phone without the need for an accessory in most situations. Technical tests conducted by the National Acoustics Laboratories on Telstra's Next G™ network (WCDMA) have validated this*. Further, successful trials with the Telstra Next G™ network handsets by people with hearing aids and cochlear implants in city and country locations confirm the success of the technical tests.
So take advantage of Telstra's Next G™ network features - which covers 99 per cent of the Australian population - and get connected with the confidence that it will continue to deliver the same excellent performance with your hearing aid or cochlear implant that you've been used to. First check that our Next G™ network delivers coverage to your area by talking to one of our Telstra customer sales representatives.
For any questions please visit your local Telstra Shop, call Telstra on 1800 220 034, or visit www.telstra.com/nextg.
# Australian Bureau of Statistics study of Disability, Ageing and Carers in the Australian population (4430.0/2003)
* Exploratory Investigation of WCDMA Interference to Hearing aids and mobile phone
Mobile Call Plans
Telstra has a number of prepaid and post-paid pricing plans, providing you with flexibility and choice.
Telstra Mobile
With Telstra Mobile you get great call rates and with a member Plan, a monthly bonus with a range of minimum monthly spend plans. You can make calls, send an SMS or use a Memo service to answer your calls.
Telstra Pre-Paid
Telstra Pre-Paid is a pre-paid service that allows you to make and receive calls with the same mobile number. You just need to keep the balance of your account in credit. There are many ways to recharge your Telstra Pre-Paid pre-paid mobile service, including credit card, ATM e-vouchers and recharge cards.
Telstra Text Plans
Telstra Text plans allow high volume SMS users to benefit from reduced SMS charges and great bonus options. These plans are available as member plans and month to month casual plans to offer the greatest flexibility and convenience for our customers. This is great for users who would prefer to use text rather than talk.
For the latest call pricing information and plans contact a Telstra dealer or visit the Telstra Mobile website at www.telstra.com/mobile.
Mobile Phone Services
Telstra Mobile Memo
Memo is a messaging service where a receptionist answers your calls then sends you your messages in text. You can give your receptionist special instructions and your own personalised greeting. When you receive a message your phone will make a distinctive beep, or show a displayed envelope symbol (or both). Memo is a great option if you are deaf or have a hearing impairment.
Telstra Mobile MessageBank®
Mobile MessageBank is a call-answering service for your mobile phone, answering calls to your mobile when you're on another call, unable to answer, out of a coverage area or your phone is turned off. MessageBank also records the number of the person calling you, enabling you to return the call with the press of a button (unless the number is blocked).
Telstra Mobile Fax and Data
Telstra Mobile Fax and Data lets you send and receive faxes and files from your mobile phone anywhere in the Telstra Mobile coverage area. If you use text-based communications or need to send a fax or data when you are out and about, this could be a great option for you.
Short Messaging Service (SMS)
SMS is like a two way paging service using your mobile phone, without using an operator. It allows you to read and write messages using the phone's screen and keypad. SMS is a useful communication tool for people who have a speech or hearing impairment.
MyInbox – Email and Mobile Messaging
MyInbox is part of MyConnect™ - the next generation of webmail and mobile messaging. Use your existing Telstra or BigPond email address to log in and start using email, online contacts, and calendar, with 1GB of storage. Plus you can link your Telstra mobile to send online SMS/MMS, receive calendar notifications and access your mobile voice and video mail online in one inbox1.
1. Charges apply for sending SMS/MMS, accessing voicemail/videomail and for calendar notification alerts. No additional access/subscription charges apply to MyInbox. Use of MyInbox may affect your monthly usuage total.
PocketNews
PocketNews is a fast, convenient, and easy way to receive the latest information on a range of news and events that are important to your lifestyle. You can have information about weather forecasts, breaking news, stockmarket reports, etc., all sent to your mobile phone as an SMS message.
Telstra hiptop
The Telstra hiptop is the perfect mobile phone option for the deaf community. Simply purchase a hiptop and then for a monthly fee on a 24 month contract you can send and receive unlimited eligible data including standard text messaging (SMS), standard picture messaging (MMS), mobile email, web browsing, data used to download content (excludes content charges) and instant messaging. An inbuilt camera allows you to take photos which you can send as an MMS or email with a message. Visit www.telstra.com/hiptop for product and pricing information and full terms and conditions.
hiptop® is a registered trademark of Danger Inc.
Mobile Handset Features
QWERTY Keypad
Some mobile phones can have a QWERTY keyboard (like a standard typewriter or PC keyboard) attached to assist in typing SMS or emails. Other mobile phones have a QWERTY keyboard built in as a standard feature. Mobile phone keyboards are usually small, so some users may find typing more difficult and restricted to single finger entry - although this is something that may be readily mastered.
Predictive Text
Predictive text is a function available on some mobile phones that enables the phone to guess what words you are typing, by using an inbuilt dictionary. This eliminates the need to press each key multiple times, enabling you to send SMS's faster and more easily. This is especially useful if you have limited mobility.
Vibrate alert
Some mobile phones have a vibrate alert function that can be used in conjunction with your ring tones or on its own. When activated your mobile phone will vibrate when a call or message is received. This function is useful if you are in a noisy environment or you have a hearing impairment.
Visual Flashing Alert
Some mobile phones have visual indicators to show when incoming calls and messages arrive. Additionally on some mobile phones you can set different colours to apply to family, friends, business associates and so on. Visual flashing alert, if available, can be used in conjunction with your standard ring tones, and/or vibrate alert if your handset has this function.
Alternative Ringing Tones and Volume Levels
You can vary the ring tones and volume of your mobile phone. This may include differentiated tones for different names/numbers stored in your phone. Alternative ring tones may assist in personalising your phone. If you have a vision impairment this may help you to identify who is calling you before you answer the phone.
Voice Activation
Some mobile phones allow you to program the names and telephone numbers of people you frequently call so that you need only say the name of the person you want and the mobile phone will dial the number for you. This function is especially useful if you have a vision impairment that makes reading the screen difficult, or a mobility impairment that makes dialling numbers difficult.
Speaker Phone
Some handsets also have a speaker phone function, where the phone can be put on loud speaker for handsfree operation. This can be very useful if you have a mobility impairment that makes holding a telephone difficult.
Mobile Phone Accessories
Personal Handsfree Kit
A personal handsfree kit allows convenient handsfree use of you mobile phone anywhere (in a coverage area), and includes an earpiece, clip-on microphone and phone connector. Many kits available include an answering button which means you can answer and finish calls without pressing any button on the phone. This is especially useful if you have limited dexterity.
Car Kit
A fully installed handsfree car kit gives you a safer way to make and receive calls whilst driving. This accessory is suitable if you need to make or receive calls whilst in the car. An external antenna on the car can improve reception in many areas.
Payphones
Approximately 96 per cent of all Telstra payphones have been upgraded to 'Smart' payphones. They provide improved access for people with a disability.
Smart Payphone Features
- Accept all Australian coins currently in use, and Telstra Phonecards
- Have an in-built hearing aid coupler, volume control and a large, easy-to-read display panel
- Tactile orientation notch on the '5' key
- Redial button which redials the last number called automatically
- Generally accessible mounting height.
General Payphone Information
For information on Telstra payphones and to report faults on Telstra payphones call FREECALL™ 180 2244*.
*A free call from most fixed phones.
TTY Payphones
TTY Payphones enable you to communicate by text if you are deaf or have a communication impairment. Over 230 Telstra Payphones have been modified to include a teletypewriter facility and are available at many airports, railway stations and other public venues.
Features
- Slide-out drawer with keyboard and screen
- Drawer remains closed until call answered by TTY
- Accepts all Australian coins and Telstra Smart Cards
- Visual signal (light to indicate whether the phone is ringing or busy).
- Announce button.
Locations of TTY Payphones
TTY users can contact the Disability Enquiry Hotline on FREECALL™ 1800 808 981* (TTY) or FREECALL™ 1800 068 424* (Voice). A location list of TTY Payphones is also available online.
*A free call from most fixed phones.
Internet
BigPond™
Telstra is Australia's premier Internet Service Provider. The BigPond™ range of Internet services are designed to meet a variety of needs. Choices range from BigPond™ Home Internet via dial-up through your telephone line, to high speed BigPond™ Broadband via Cable, ADSL or Satellite.
Directories
WhitePages™ Online
The WhitePages™ Online site gives you access to over eight million residential, business and government listings throughout Australia. Visit www.whitepages.com.au/wp/.
YellowPages® Online
The YellowPages® Online site contains business entries from all printed Australian YellowPages Directories. Visit www.yellowpages.com.au.
Telstra Directory Assistance
Telstra Directory Assistance provides the telephone number of the person or organisation you wish to call. This service is available for all listed telephone numbers in Australia and overseas. The number to call for Telstra Directory Assistance is 1223 for all areas within Australia, and 1225 for overseas countries.
Directory Assistance Helpline
Telstra's Directory Assistance Helpline offers a live, operator assisted service that includes telephone number information as well as address information for people who are unable to read, use or hold White Pages™ or Yellow Pages™ directories and are unable to satisfactorily use the standard Telstra Directory Assistance service (1223) service. Contact the Disability Enquiry Hotline on 1800 068 424* (Voice) or 1800 808 981* (TTY) or email us.
*A free call from most fixed phones.
1234
1234 is a fast, flexible and convenient way to help people find most listed business and residential information, street directions, movies screening and session times, and weather information, all via one easy number - 1-2-3-4 - and you can be connected on request. Visit www.voiceservices.com.au for product & pricing information.
Call Connect 12456 (and for a limited time on 12455)
If you know the name of the person or business you're looking for you'll be connected to their number. Or if you're looking for a certain type of business but don't know their name, you can receive up to three business listings from the operator and can be connected to any one of them.
Call Connect Fee Exemption
Telstra customers who are unable, or find it extremely difficult to dial numbers on a telephone and therefore are prevented from using a normal telephone, may be eligible for a Call Connect service fee Disability Exemption. The exemption applies only to Call Connect calls - to 12456 - made from the fixed line telephone service that has been registered for the Exemption, and it only applies to the Call Connect service fee. Customers will still be charged the applicable call charges for connection to the requested number. Applications for registration for this service can be made through Telstra's Disability Enquiry Hotline on 1800 068 424.
Bill Options
Telstra offers a range of billing options for customers with a disability, at no additional cost.
Braille Bill
Customers who are blind have the option of receiving their Telstra standard and mobile telephone bills in Braille.
Features
- Contains the same information as a standard bill, including full itemisation of service and equipment charges.
- Information is laid out in a way that enables you to quickly recognise that the document is a Telstra bill.
- There is no remit section, however the bill is designed for easy payment by phone.
Braille bills can be ordered by calling the Disability Enquiry Hotline on FREECALL™ 1800 068 424* (Voice) or FREECALL™ 1800 808 981* (TTY) or email us.
*A free call from most fixed phones.
Big Print Bill
If you have a vision impairment that means you can't easily read your Telstra bill, you may prefer to receive your standard telephone and mobile bills printed in a large font - the Big Print Bill.
Features
- Identical information to that supplied in a standard Telstra bill.
- Printed in a large font.
- Printed on larger paper (approximately twice the size of a standard bill).
- Remit section remains the same size (as the standard bill).
Big print bills can be ordered by calling 13 2200.
Online Bill
You can choose to receive your Telstra bills online. With Online Billing you are able to sort and graph charges on your bill and receive free local call itemisation. A 'calls yet to be billed' option allows you to view and track your calls prior to them appearing on your telephone bill. This can help you to monitor your usage and budget for your telephone accounts. The Online Bill site is W3C (World Wide Web Consortium) compliant, enabling customers who use a screen reader to access this option. For further information visit Billing & Payments.
Single Bill
If you would like to simplify your telephone bills, Telstra's Single Bill is for you. It combines standard telephone, mobile, Foxtel and some BigPond™ services in one simple, itemised account. Combining two or more eligible types of Telstra services may entitle you to a discount on relevant calls and usage charges. Single Bills can be activated by calling 132200.
Summary Bill
If you want less information on your telephone bill you can elect to have a summary bill, which gives you the totals for each call type eg STD, International and local calls, and your service and equipment charges. Summary Bills can be ordered by calling 132200.
Bill Payment Options
Telstra offers you a number of ways to make paying your Telstra bills convenient and easy.
- Telstra Direct Debit allows the automatic transfer of funds directly from your nominated bank, credit union or building society account, on the due date.
- BPay offers you the convenience of electronic banking via your participating financial institution. You simply need to call your financial institution and quote the biller code and your account number.
- Pay-by-Phone offers you the flexibility of paying your account over the phone at any time of day.
- Online payment lets you pay your telephone bills over the Internet.
- Fax payments can be made with credit cards by Telstra customers who find it difficult using a standard telephone - please contact the Disability Enquiry Hotline to arrange use of this option.
- Email payment can be made with credit cards by Telstra customers who find it difficult using a telephone - please contact the Disability Enquiry Hotline to arrange this option.
For further information about the range of Billing and bill payment options, visit Billing & Payments.
Call Cost Information
For long distance call pricing and information about Telstra's
international call charges, call 1300 362 162
for more information visit our Home Phones & Plans site.
