FAQ - Mobile Phones
These questions are designed to assist you with any question you may have on purchasing a mobile phone in accordance with the University standards. We have also included some scenarios and solutions that are common to the University.
The University Mobile policy can be found at the PPP: http://www.unimelb.edu.au/ppp/docs/10.html#10.15.
What coverage can I get?
This depends on the service provider and their websites (or the Telephone Systems Mobile pages) provide this information. Service providers improve their coverage so it is best to think about where you will use the mobile the most. For those that visit remote regions an alternative to the regular GSM network would be CDMA but again check with the service provider. If you have purchased a mobile and find a "Dead Spot" or "Black Spot", please report this to your service provider as this assists them to plan or fix these spots for better service.
I have my own personal mobile; can I use that for work?
Yes, but to be reimbursed for call costs you need the prior written approval of your department via the form located at http://www.hr.unimelb.edu.au/forms/hr38.pdf.
You will need to adhere to the University Mobile Telephone Policy and in that respect you are required to highlight the relevant call details on any bills that you submit for reimbursement.
Some service providers offer a dual "SIM" card, which allows you to place a prefix in front of work calls so that work and personal call billing is separated. You will need to contact your service provider to find out whether they provide this service and the conditions.
I am going overseas can I use my mobile?
You need to have International Roaming activated on your account. A lot of carriers automatically switch this service on but you will need to check with your service provider. Allow a few days to have this service switched on. Please note there is also associated cost with International Roaming; please see the question "cost for International Roaming". Please note with Telstra's CDMA Network International Roaming is not available as yet but will be soon. International Roaming remains active on your account until you cancel it.
What costs are associated with International Roaming?
As normal all your calls will be charged back to your account in Australian dollars. You are charged for both making a call and receiving calls when roaming overseas. You need to check with your service provider as to the costs involved and whether International Roaming is available in the country you will be visiting.
Is there an alternative to International Roaming?
There are several alternatives such as:
¨ Hiring a handset and SIM card that is usable in the country you are visiting. Such services are often sold from airports, or are available in larger cities. The only drawback on this is you will need to convey the new number to those who wish to contact you.
¨ Use of a Telecard, again as a cost approved as part of your travel (HR 18) plan from your Head of Department. The drawback here is it is not mobile and you can only call out, but this is often cost effective.
¨ Still using your mobile, but ask callers to SMS you rather than call to manage contact at a low cost.
My m o b i l e phone is not working?
Here is a quick checklist that you can do before contacting your service provider:
¨ Is the battery charged?
¨ Have you inserted the SIM card correctly?
¨ Coverage is ok?
¨ Have you entered the correct security code?
What if my handset has failed and does not work?
If your handset is still within the warranty period you need to contact your carrier who will be able to give you the next steps. If you are outside your warranty then you need to consider the cost of repair vs purchase of a new handset. Most handsets last approx. 3 years however in some cases of extreme use this maybe shorter. Most suppliers will charge you a fee to look at your phone and provide a quote, this is then deducted off the cost of repairing you phone if you choose to have the work done.
What is number portability and can I do this?
Number portability allows you to take your current mobile phone number and move networks without having to get a new mobile number. You will need to check with your current service provider to make sure there are no costs involved or plans are not affected.
For some common scenarios please click here: Mobile Phone Scenarios
There has been a small group of glossary terms put together in relation to Mobile
Phones it can be found : Mobile Glossary