Activation & getting started

If you’re keeping your existing number, follow the instructions below: 

1. On your smartphone, tablet or desktop computer, go to telstra.com/activate
2. Follow the prompts to activate a Pre-Paid service 
3. On the Your SIM details page, select Transfer my current number

Important: 

• Make sure the details you provide exactly match the details held by your current provider, such as the spelling of your name and date of birth
• It can take up to 48 hours for your number to transfer to Telstra. While you’re waiting you can keep using your current 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 visit your local Telstra store
• That your device is unlocked and compatible with the Telstra mobile network. 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 your mobile supports Telstra’s network. Check the manufacturer's website or our online device guides
• 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 mobile support or check the manufacturer’s website

You’ll need to insert your new Telstra Pre-Paid SIM card into your phone. Once your service is active, you may need to recharge. 

You can top up your service, track your usage and more with the My Telstra app or do it all online with My Account. You’ll need to register or sign in with your Telstra ID.

Watch our video on ‘How to insert your SIM card into a phone with a battery’ below.

If you’re having trouble activating your service online, check that the following has been entered correctly:

• Your phone number (10 digits) and SIM card number (13 digits which you can find on your SIM kit packaging)
• Your ID
  • Check your ID is valid (international credit cards are not accepted)
  • Make sure you complete all fields
  • Check your name exactly matches your ID, including any middle initials
• Your address is entered in the following format: 10 Sample Street, Melbourne 3000

If you’re using your driver’s licence, you’ll need the following details:

• Your name exactly as it is on the card
• Your driver’s licence number
• Your date of birth
   

Check the expiry date on the back of your SIM kit packaging to see if it’s still valid. If your SIM card has expired or is faulty, you’ll need to return it to where you bought it and ask for a refund.  

Once your order has been shipped, you should receive it the next day (if you place your order before 2pm), or in 3-4 business days, depending on your location:

• In metro areas – we deliver the next day if you placed your order before 2pm AEST Monday-Friday. Add 1 business day if you placed your order after 2pm
• In non-metro areas – we deliver in 3-4 business days

A digital voucher is available for $30, $40, $150 and $300 online recharges.

1. Go to Pre-Paid recharges
   
   
2. Choose the recharge value you wish to purchase - $30, $40, $150 or $300
   
   
3. Select Email me a digital voucher
   
   
4. If the amount you’ve ordered is correct, tap Next to continue
   
   
5. Enter Your Details, including your email address. Tap Next, Review and Submit
   
   
6. To continue, review and agree to the Critical Information Summary, Customer Terms and Privacy Statement
   
   
7. Enter your Payment Details and select Place order securely
   
   
8. You can print your order details
   
   
9. Your order confirmation and recharge voucher PIN will be sent to you via email
   
   
10. Use your Pre-Paid voucher PIN to recharge your phone online before it expires. Go to recharge.telstra.com/enternumber and follow the prompts.