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Keep an Australian mobile number active abroad.
An active 04 mobile number can usually be ported, including prepaid service, but disconnected numbers no longer carry the same portability right.
Act before disconnection.
ACMA states that active and suspended numbers can generally be ported while disconnected numbers cannot. Mobile ports also involve identity checks designed to reduce fraud.
Prepaid continuity
Compare recharge expiry, inactivity, roaming, incoming SMS, eSIM replacement and the ability to recharge from overseas. Set a reminder earlier than the published inactivity date and keep account details current.
When a local number is better
If you permanently relocate, keep the Australian number for legacy accounts and use a local carrier number for new services. Do not assume a travel eSIM includes voice or SMS.