Making an international call from the USA to Australia might seem daunting at first, but with the right steps and tips, it’s actually quite simple. Whether you need to call Australia for business purposes, to stay in touch with family or friends, or to explore a new venture, this guide will walk you through the easiest and most affordable ways to make those calls.
By the end of this blog, you will know exactly how to dial Australian numbers, save on international call costs, and even find the best app solutions for seamless communication. We will also cover the correct phone number format, the best time to call, and how you can benefit from cloud telephony services like Telfon to streamline your international communication needs.
What You Need to Know Before Calling Australia from the USA
When you call Australia from the USA, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, understanding the correct dialing sequence is essential, and second, knowing the available options for making international calls is important to help you save money and avoid unnecessary hassle.
Understanding the Australian Phone Number Format
Before you can dial an Australian phone number, you need to familiarize yourself with its format. Here’s a breakdown:
- Country Code: The country code for Australia is +61.
- City or Area Code: Australian phone numbers often include a one-digit city or area code. For example, the area code for Sydney is 02, while Melbourne uses 03.
- Phone Number: Local phone numbers in Australia consist of eight digits.
For example, if you’re calling a number in Sydney, it may look like this:+61 2 XXXX XXXX
The Best Ways to Call Australia from the USA
There are several ways to call Australia from the USA, and choosing the right one depends on your communication preferences, the cost, and the technology you prefer to use. Let’s look at the most common methods:
1. Using Your Mobile Phone
You can use your mobile phone to directly dial an Australian number. Here’s the dialing format:
- Dial 011 (the USA exit code to make an international call).
- Dial 61 (the Australian country code).
- Enter the area code (without the initial 0).
- Finally, enter the local phone number.
For example, if you’re calling a landline in Sydney, you would dial:011 61 2 XXXX XXXX
2. Using a Landline
If you still have access to a landline, you can make the call by following the same procedure mentioned above. However, keep in mind that this can be more expensive, especially if you’re not subscribed to an international calling plan.
3. Using Internet-Based Services (VoIP)
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services are becoming increasingly popular for international calls. These services allow you to make calls over the internet, often at a fraction of the cost compared to traditional carriers. Some of the most popular VoIP options include:
- Skype
- Google Voice
These apps usually offer free calls to other users on the same platform, but if you’re calling a landline or mobile number in Australia, charges may apply.
Why Use Telfon for Your International Calls?
While many people use basic mobile or VoIP services for international calls, there is a better, more streamlined option—Telfon. Telfon is a cloud telephony service that combines all the benefits of VoIP with added features and flexibility.
How Telfon Simplifies International Calls to Australia
Telfon is designed for individuals and businesses who frequently need to make international calls, including to Australia. With Telfon, you get access to affordable rates without sacrificing quality, and you can manage multiple virtual numbers on one device.
Key Benefits of Using Telfon:
- Cost-Efficient: Telfon’s integration with Twilio ensures that you get the best rates for international calls. You can save significantly when compared to traditional phone carriers.
- Flexibility: Use Telfon as a second phone number for both personal and business use, making it easier to separate communication streams.
- Seamless Integration: Telfon integrates with popular CRM tools like Salesforce and HubSpot, making it a great option for businesses looking to expand internationally.
- WhatsApp Integration: Call or message via WhatsApp directly from the Telfon app for a more connected experience.
With features like call recording, multi-number management, and SMS broadcasting, Telfon is perfect for business and personal use when calling Australia from the USA. Whether you need to call, send messages, or set up automated responses, Telfon offers everything you need.
The Best Time to Call Australia from the USA
When making international calls, you’ll want to keep time zones in mind to avoid calling someone in the middle of the night. Australia has multiple time zones, so it’s important to know which part of the country you are calling.
- Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra: GMT +10 (Standard Time), GMT +11 (Daylight Saving Time).
- Perth: GMT +8 (no daylight savings).
- Brisbane: GMT +10 (no daylight savings).
Given that the time difference between the USA (Eastern Standard Time) and Sydney is usually 16–18 hours ahead, the best time to call is typically in the late afternoon or early evening (USA time), which would correspond to morning or midday in Australia.
For example:
- Best time for EST (Eastern Standard Time): 4 PM to 6 PM (which is 8 AM to 10 AM the next day in Sydney).
- Best time for PST (Pacific Standard Time): 1 PM to 3 PM (which is 7 AM to 9 AM the next day in Sydney).
Tips for Reducing Costs When Calling Australia
International calling can quickly get expensive if you don’t take the right measures to reduce costs. Here are a few tips to help you save money when you call Australia from the USA:
1. Use VoIP Services
As mentioned earlier, VoIP services like Skype, WhatsApp, and Telfon are far more affordable than traditional carriers. With Telfon, for example, you can get even better rates than some of the leading VoIP providers, thanks to its integration with Twilio.
2. Take Advantage of Free Apps
If the person you’re calling is using the same app, such as WhatsApp or Skype, you can make completely free calls, even internationally. However, keep in mind that this is only possible if both parties have the app installed and are using it simultaneously.
3. Buy International Calling Plans
Some carriers offer international calling plans that allow you to make a certain number of calls abroad at a reduced cost. If you frequently call Australia, this might be a good investment. However, be sure to compare the rates with services like Telfon to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Alternatives to Calling: Messaging & Video Calls
If calling isn’t necessary, consider alternative ways to stay in touch with your contacts in Australia. Video calling apps like Zoom, Google Meet, and Skype provide face-to-face communication for free, as long as you have an internet connection.
Additionally, using messaging apps like WhatsApp or Signal can be an even cheaper way to stay in touch, allowing you to send instant messages without the cost of an international SMS.
For businesses that need to communicate regularly with international clients, Telfon’s ability to send bulk SMS or broadcast messages is particularly useful, helping to automate and streamline communication.
FAQs: Calling Australia from the USA
What’s the cheapest way to call Australia from the USA?
Using VoIP services like Telfon, Skype, or WhatsApp will typically be the most affordable way to call Australia, especially for long conversations.
Can I call Australia from a US mobile number?
Yes, you can call directly from your US mobile number by dialing 011, followed by the Australian country code (+61), and the local number.
What is the country code for Australia?
The country code for Australia is +61.
Can I send text messages to Australia from the USA?
Yes, you can send SMS from the USA to Australia, but international messaging fees may apply. Telfon can help you send both individual and bulk SMS messages at lower rates.
Conclusion
Making a phone call to Australia from the USA is now easier and more affordable than ever, thanks to the range of options available. Whether you choose to call directly using your mobile phone, utilize a VoIP service like Telfon, or opt for video calling and messaging apps, staying connected across continents has never been more convenient.
Telfon stands out as the ultimate solution for affordable, high-quality international calls, especially for businesses looking to expand globally. With its low-cost plans, seamless integration with CRMs, and a wide range of features, Telfon makes calling Australia from the USA simple, efficient, and budget-friendly.
