Optus passes on ‘increasing costs’ to existing customers in phone plan price hike set for August 5
Optus has revealed it will increase the cost of its phone plans for existing customers from August 5.
The price hike was revealed in an email to customers on Friday, explaining the telecommunications giant will pass on “increasing costs” to customers.
“Due to the increasing costs to maintain and provide a great network experience, we’ve made the difficult decision to increase the price of some of our mobile plans,” Optus said in the email.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.An Optus spokesperson told 7NEWS.com.au: “Some mobile plans will see an increase in price by $3 or $6 per service.”
The spokesperson confirmed existing customers have been being made aware of the plan increases as early as June 11.
It comes after Optus last month introduced a more expensive pricing model for new customers, with some plans costing up to $13 more than previously.
The telco specified at the time the new pricing model would not affect existing customers — but now, existing customers are also being told their phone plans will increase.
The smallest Optus phone plan, with 30gb of data for $49 per month, will soon cost $52 per month instead.
Data included in the plans will also increase “to provide more value,” Optus said.
For that same basic plan, customers would receive an extra 20gb of data per month.
“This change will not affect any add-ons, special discounts, bonus data or other promotions which you may have on your plan,” Optus said in the email.
According to a critical information summary for month-to-month plans, Optus said: “We may make changes to your plan, options and add-ons. This could include moving you to a new plan, option or add-on which may cost more.
“If we increase your plan price ... we will give you at least 30 days notice of these changes. If you don’t like the changes, you can choose a new plan ... or cancel your plan.”
The Optus spokesperson said: “We understand that unexpected events and expenses can make it difficult to keep up with regular payments. Our team is here to help. If any of our customers are experiencing financial hardship, we encourage them to please contact us.”
Customers can contact the Optus team using the 24/7 My Optus app.
