Australians are likely to stick to their mobile providers even if it costs them hundreds of dollars more than switching plans.
This is according to a new “nationally representative” survey from Finder, which reveals 41 per cent of Aussies have been with their provider for six years or more. This is despite 55 per cent of Australians experiencing at least one dropout or lack of service in the past year.
The average bill in September is $56/month, up from $49 a month in February.
Recent price hikes appear to have had little impact: 28 per cent of respondents say they would will until their bill increased by $10 a month – $120 a year – before switching, with 12 per cent saying they would wait until a $20/month hike – meaning they would have to pay $240 a year on top of their current bill, before making a switch.
Not surprisingly, Mariam Gabaji, utilities expert at Finder, calls Australians “overly devoted” to mobile providers.
“It’s easy to remain attached to the same provider you’ve been with from the get-go but you won’t be getting the best bang for your buck,” she said.
“Not comparing your options can end up costing you more in the long run.”
Baby boomers are the least likely generation to switch providers, with 37 per cent admitting they would not switch regardless of whether their bill increased, compared to 22 per cent of millennials and 24 per cent of Gen Z.
It seems price is less of a motivator then sheer laziness. If consumers won’t change, Gabaji recommends consumers call their provider and see if they’re willing to upgrade the plan to keep you as a customer.
“If not, there are loads of providers who will be happy to make you a better offer.”