spouse of scouse

Telstra have just informed us that they're putting their prices up and I'm on the hunt for a better deal. Although I'm usually pretty good with research, the number of companies and plans available is defeating me.

The main sticking point seems to be our Foxtel subscription, which I think can only be done through Telstra or as a stand alone? (ie not through another landline provider).

The most expensive item on our phone bill (apart from Foxtel) is calls to the UK.

Any leads appreciated, even pointers towards comparison websites etc. Cheers.

renth

Hi,

I've been using Pennytel for calls to the UK for years. It's 8c per call no time limit: https://www.pennytel.com.au

As for Foxtel, don't use Telstra for billing, go direct with Foxtel then call them and negotiate the price, you should be able to get approx. 50% discount. You can't do that is Telstra bill you for Foxtel.

rasen78

TPG... Unlimited broadband, calls to mobiles in Australia and countries including the UK

TPG ADSL & HomePhone

Just make sure you read the small print as if purchased online, there is no cooling off period.

GarryP

Well, first off check if you need to have a Telstra line where you are, if you are on a RIM, you do. That would limit you.

If not, then I'd suggest going VoIP, since you can get a 'naked' broadband service and then use a VoIP box to do away with the conventional line - and only pay a fraction of the Telstra amount. You can also get a UK VoIP number and route it through to here, so people can ring a UK number, and you can ring out.

As for Foxtel, I thought they had done away with the telephone requirement. Either way, for movies you are probably better off getting a US Netflix account - better selection, lower cost. About the only thing Foxtel is good for is local sports.

spouse of scouse

Thanks for the suggestions everyone. I'll do a bit more reading, and try to overcome my fear of 'landline separation' :-)

Pollyana

Doesn't help with regard to Foxtel though.

spouse of scouse

No - and I'm not sure the old head can work its way around this internet telephone call thingy. I'm going to take Renth's advice and ring Foxtel to get a better deal, and get them to bill me direct.

roaringmouse

Now that Pennytel is in liquidation, and MyNetFone is apparently picking up the customers wonder how things will go?

renth

Yes, ironic, I've used them for years, recommend them here and within hours get an email telling me they are going under.

It's a pain because it took me ages to set up my VOIP router, I guess I'll have to do it again...

To the OP, yes get Foxtel to bill you but give it a couple of months before you ring up and ask for the discount, ask for the discount as you come to the end of your contract.

I cancelled Foxtel for good the other day, I'm all about my Roku these days:

http://www.roku.com

spouse of scouse

Sod's law, Renth

Thanks for the tip re Foxtel. We got it years and years ago, so don't have a contract, do you think it's still best to wait after getting them to bill us direct, or can I try to get a discount at the same time?

We hardly ever watch movies, we use it to watch football (proper football, not AFL ), channel 13 and UK TV. We have Setanta as well but it doesn't show all the EPL matches.

renth

Wait until Foxtel are billing you direct then ring up to cancel... have a read of this too: http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/archive/2126752