Australian customers are used to three kinds of business number: a local landline, a 1300 number and a free 1800 number. Each sends a different message. Here’s how they work.
Four geographic area codes
Australia has just four area codes, each covering a large region:
| Code | Region | Major cities |
|---|---|---|
| 02 | New South Wales, ACT | Sydney, Canberra |
| 03 | Victoria, Tasmania | Melbourne, Hobart |
| 07 | Queensland | Brisbane, Gold Coast |
| 08 | Western Australia, South Australia, Northern Territory | Perth, Adelaide, Darwin |
Local numbers have eight digits after the area code, for example (02) 1234 5678. From abroad: +61 2 1234 5678, dropping the 0. Browse Sydney numbers or all Australian cities.
1300 and 13: local rate numbers
1300 numbers (and the shorter, rarer 13 numbers) are national numbers that callers pay a local-call rate for from landlines. Mobile costs depend on the plan, though many plans include them. They give a national presence without the full cost of freephone. See Australian national numbers.
1800: freecall
1800 numbers are free for callers from landlines and, under Australian rules, from mobiles too. They’re the standard for customer service and sales hotlines, with the inbound cost paid by you. See Australia 1800 numbers.
Mobile numbers
Australian mobiles start with 04. Virtual mobile-range numbers are more restricted than landline ranges.
Which to choose
| Goal | Best choice |
|---|---|
| Local presence in one city | 02 / 03 / 07 / 08 local number |
| National number, shared cost | 1300 |
| Free for callers | 1800 |
| Outbound sales to a region | Local number for that region |
Frequently asked questions
Are 1800 numbers free from mobiles in Australia?
Yes. Calls to 1800 numbers are free from Australian mobiles as well as landlines.
Can I get a Melbourne number without an office there?
Usually yes. Requirements for each number are shown before you buy.
Browse Australian numbers