Recharge your prepaid SIM

Recharging a prepaid SIM is quick and easy, and there are usually several different ways to do it. On this page, we’ll cover how to recharge your prepaid SIM and how often you need to do it to keep your service active.

How to recharge your prepaid SIM

You can recharge your prepaid SIM in a variety of ways. Below is a summary of the most common methods used in Australia. These methods apply whether you have a physical SIM card or an eSIM. Keep in mind that the exact steps might vary slightly depending on your provider.

Recharge online

  1. Create an account and log in to your provider’s website. If you don’t want to create an account, many Australian providers offer a Guest Recharge option.
  2. Register a payment method. You can usually choose between a credit or debit card, PayPal,or digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay, or via PayID.
  3. Navigate to the Recharge section.
  4. Enter the mobile number you wish to recharge.
  5. Select your preferred prepaid plan or the amount you want to add.
  6. You’ll typically receive a confirmation on the screen or via SMS once the recharge is successful.

Recharge via app

  1. Download your provider’s app (such as My Telstra, My Optus, or My Vodafone) from the App Store or Google Play.
  2. Log in to your account.
  3. Find the Recharge tab and follow the prompts to complete your payment.

Recharge via call or SMS

To recharge over the phone, you’ll need to dial a specific service number and follow the automated prompts. Recharging via text works similarly; you usually send a specific keyword (like “RECHARGE”) to a short code provided by your telco.

Generally, you need to have a payment card already linked to your account to use these methods. You can find the specific numbers to call or text on your provider’s website.

Recharge via voucher

To recharge with a voucher, you first need to buy a recharge card or voucher from a physical store. These are available at your provider’s retail stores, as well as supermarkets like Coles and Woolworths, Australia Post, and most newsagents or petrol stations.

The voucher will have a unique code that you provide to your telco by entering it into your provider’s app, calling them, or texting them. Instructions are usually printed directly on the voucher or your receipt.

Can I recharge a prepaid SIM that isn’t my own?

Yes, most Australian providers allow you to recharge a SIM for someone else as long as you have their mobile number. The easiest way to do this is through the provider’s website using the “Guest Recharge” feature. You simply enter the mobile number of the person you want to help out.

You can also do this over the phone. The automated system may ask if you want to recharge the number you’re calling from; select “no” and enter the mobile number you wish to recharge instead.

Set up Auto-Recharge

Many providers offer an Auto-Recharge service. This is a great option if you use your prepaid SIM every month and have a plan that fits your needs for data, calls, and texts.

To set it up, select your plan, choose a schedule (e.g., every 28 or 30 days, or when your balance gets low), and link your payment method. Your SIM will then stay active without you having to remember the expiry date.

Can I add extra data to my prepaid SIM?

This depends on your provider. Most Australian telcos allow you to buy data add-ons or data packs if you run out of data before your plan expires. For example, some providers might refer to these as “Extras”.

Please note! The validity period for extra data is usually limited (often 7, 14, or 30 days) or it may expire at the same time as your main recharge. Check with your provider to see how long your add-on lasts.

Keep in mind that buying extra data can be more expensive per GB. If you find you’re running out of data often, it might be more cost-effective to switch to a plan with a higher data allowance next time you recharge.

How often do I need to recharge my prepaid SIM?

Most standard prepaid recharges in Australia have an expiry period of 28 or 30 days. After this time, you’ll need to recharge again to keep using your inclusions. If you are on a Long Expiry, Long Life or Pay as you go (PAYG) credit plan, your balance might last anywhere from 60 days to a full year.

Importantly, the SIM card itself has a service expiry. To keep your SIM active and prevent your number from being disconnected, you must recharge or use the service (like making a call) at least once every 6 to 12 months (depending on the provider). If you don’t, the provider will deactivate the SIM, and you may lose your mobile number.