Staying connected with family, friends, or business contacts in the Philippines from Australia is easier than you think. Whether you’re planning a holiday, managing remote teams, or simply checking in on loved ones, knowing the correct dialing steps is crucial. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to call Philippines from Australia efficiently and affordably.
The distance between Australia and the Philippines might seem vast, but modern communication tools bridge this gap effortlessly. We understand that navigating international dialing codes, time zones, and potential costs can feel a bit overwhelming at first. That is precisely why we put together this comprehensive guide. We will break down the process step-by-step, ensuring your international calls Australia Philippines are always clear and successful. For more general information on international travel and communications, you might find resources from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade helpful.
Understanding the Basics of International Dialing
Making an international call involves more than just dialing a phone number. You need to follow a specific sequence of codes to ensure your call reaches the correct destination. These codes act like digital signposts, guiding your call across borders.
Standard Calling Format
Every international call generally follows a similar structure. Think of it as an address for your call. This format ensures your call leaves Australia and arrives in the Philippines.
Here is the general sequence you will follow:
- Exit Code: This code tells your phone provider you are making an international call.
- Country Code: This code identifies the country you wish to call.
- Area Code: This code specifies a particular region or city within that country.
- Local Phone Number: This is the specific number of the person or business you want to reach.
Things You Need Before You Call
Before you pick up your phone, take a moment to gather these essential pieces of information. This preparation will save you time and prevent dialing errors.
- The Full Phone Number: Always have the complete number, including the area code if it’s a landline.
- Correct Time: Be aware of the time difference to avoid calling at inconvenient hours.
- Internet Connection: If using a Voice over IP (VoIP) service like Telfon, ensure you have a stable internet connection.
Philippines Calling Code
The first crucial step in making an international call Australia Philippines is knowing the correct country code. Every country has a unique code. This code signals to the global telecommunications network that your call is destined for the Philippines.
The Philippines calling code is +63.
You will use this code immediately after dialing Australia’s international exit code (or the ‘+’ sign on mobile phones). For example, if you are calling a number in Manila, you will include ‘+63’ before the Manila area code and the local number. This code is fundamental for any call to the Philippines, whether it is to a landline or a mobile phone.
Calling from a Landline
Calling the Philippines from a landline in Australia requires a specific sequence. It involves the Australian international exit code, the Philippine country code, and then the local number.
Here is the step-by-step process:
- Dial Australia’s Exit Code: First, dial 0011. This code tells your landline provider you are making an international call.
- Dial the Philippines Country Code: Next, dial 63. This is the specific code for the Philippines.
- Dial the Area Code: Enter the specific area code for the city or region in the Philippines you are calling. For example, Manila’s area code is 2.
- Dial the Local Phone Number: Finally, dial the local landline number. Philippine landline numbers typically have 7 digits after the area code.
Example for a Manila landline:
0011 (Australian Exit Code) + 63 (Philippines Country Code) + 2 (Manila Area Code) + XXX XXXX (Local Number)
Ensure you double-check the area code and local number before dialing to avoid misdialing.
Calling from a Mobile
Making a call to the Philippines from your mobile phone is generally simpler than using a landline. Mobile phones allow you to use a universal international dialing prefix.
Follow these easy steps to call Philippines from Australia using your mobile:
- Dial the Plus (+) Sign: Press and hold the ‘0’ key until a ‘+’ sign appears. This automatically serves as the international access code for mobile phones worldwide.
- Dial the Philippines Country Code: Enter 63 immediately after the ‘+’ sign.
- Dial the Area Code (for landlines) or Mobile Prefix (for mobile phones):
- For a landline in the Philippines: Dial the area code (e.g., 2 for Manila).
- For a mobile number in the Philippines: Dial the mobile prefix (e.g., 917, 920, 999).
- Dial the Local Phone Number: Finish by entering the remaining digits of the phone number. Philippine mobile numbers typically have 10 digits after the country code.
Example for a Philippine Mobile Number:
+ (International Access) + 63 (Philippines Country Code) + 9XX (Mobile Prefix) + XXX XXXX (Local Number)
Example for a Philippine Landline from Mobile:
+ (International Access) + 63 (Philippines Country Code) + 2 (Manila Area Code) + XXX XXXX (Local Number)
Using the ‘+’ sign simplifies the dialing process, making it consistent regardless of your location.
Area Codes in the Philippines
Just like in Australia, the Philippines uses area codes to direct calls to specific geographical regions. Knowing the correct area code is vital for reaching a landline number. Mobile phone numbers, however, generally do not use traditional area codes; instead, they use specific mobile prefixes.
Understanding Philippine Area Codes
Philippine area codes range from single digits to multiple digits. They are essential for routing calls within the country to the correct city or province.
Here are some of the most common area codes in the Philippines:
City/Region | Area Code |
---|---|
Manila | 2 |
Cebu City | 32 |
Davao City | 82 |
Baguio City | 74 |
Iloilo City | 33 |
Cagayan de Oro | 88 |
Zamboanga City | 62 |
Pampanga | 45 |
Remember, these area codes are only for landline numbers. If you are calling a mobile phone, you will not include an area code in the dialing sequence. Instead, you will use the mobile network’s specific prefix.
Phone Number Format for the Philippines
Understanding the full phone number format helps ensure your call connects successfully. The structure varies slightly between landlines and mobile numbers in the Philippines.
Philippines Landline Number Format
For landline calls, you combine the international access, country code, area code, and the local subscriber number.
Here’s the breakdown:
+63 (Country Code) + (Area Code) + (7-Digit Local Number)
- +63: This is the country code for the Philippines.
- Area Code: This is the city-specific code (e.g., 2 for Manila, 32 for Cebu).
- Local Number: This is the 7-digit unique subscriber number for the landline.
Example: To call a landline in Manila with the local number 123-4567, you would dial: +63 2 1234567
Philippines Mobile Number Format
Philippine mobile numbers are generally 10 digits long, following the country code. They do not use area codes. Instead, they begin with a mobile prefix, which indicates the network provider.
Here’s the breakdown:
+63 (Country Code) + (3-Digit Mobile Prefix) + (7-Digit Subscriber Number)
- +63: This is the country code for the Philippines.
- Mobile Prefix: This is a 3-digit prefix (e.g., 917 for Globe, 920 for Smart, 999 for DITO).
- Subscriber Number: This is the 7-digit unique number for the mobile phone.
Example: To call a mobile number with the prefix 917 and subscriber number 123-4567, you would dial: +63 917 1234567
Always confirm the exact 10-digit mobile number, including the correct prefix, before dialing.
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Best Time for Calling the Philippines from Australia
Time differences can make international calling tricky. You certainly want to avoid waking someone up in the middle of the night or interrupting their workday. Understanding the time zones between Australia and the Philippines is key to making convenient calls.
Australia and Philippines Time Zones
Australia has multiple time zones, but the most common comparison is with Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST). The Philippines observes Philippine Standard Time (PST or PHT), which is generally 2 hours behind AEST.
Key Time Difference:
- Philippine Standard Time (PST/PHT): UTC+8
- Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST): UTC+10 (during non-daylight saving)
This means that if it’s 10:00 AM in Sydney (AEST), it will be 8:00 AM in Manila (PHT).
Here is a quick reference table:
Time in Australia (AEST) | Time in Philippines (PHT) | Convenience |
---|---|---|
9:00 AM | 7:00 AM | Early Morning |
12:00 PM (Noon) | 10:00 AM | Mid-Morning |
3:00 PM | 1:00 PM | Early Afternoon |
6:00 PM | 4:00 PM | Late Afternoon |
Tips for Optimal Calling Times
- Personal Calls: For family and friends, aim for late afternoon or early evening in Australia. This usually translates to late morning or afternoon in the Philippines, which is a comfortable time.
- Business Calls: For professional discussions, try to align with standard business hours in both countries. Calling between 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM AEST often works well, as it corresponds to 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM PHT.
- Check Local Holidays: Be mindful of public holidays in the Philippines, as people might be unavailable.
Using a world clock or a simple online time zone converter can help you accurately plan your calls.
Cost of Calling the Philippines from Australia
Historically, making international calls Australia Philippines has been quite expensive. Traditional phone carriers often charged high per-minute rates, making long conversations costly. Fortunately, the landscape of international calling has changed dramatically.
Traditional Calling Costs
When using standard landline or mobile providers, several factors affect the cost:
- Your Phone Plan: Some plans might include a small allowance for international calls, while others charge extra.
- Time of Day: Off-peak hours were sometimes cheaper, but this distinction is less common now.
- Call Destination: Calling a landline might differ in cost from calling a mobile number.
- Carrier Rates: Different carriers have different rate structures. Always check with your provider for their specific charges.
These traditional costs can quickly add up, especially for frequent or lengthy conversations. This is where modern solutions come into play, making cheap calls to Philippines a reality.
The Rise of VoIP for Affordable Calls
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) has revolutionized international communication. VoIP services convert your voice into digital data and send it over the internet, bypassing traditional phone networks. This approach significantly reduces calling costs, making VOIP Australia to Philippines a popular and budget-friendly choice.
Key advantages of VoIP for cost-effective calls:
- Lower Per-Minute Rates: VoIP providers typically offer much lower rates than traditional carriers.
- Bundled Plans: Many VoIP services provide monthly plans with unlimited international calling to specific countries.
- App-to-App Calling: Some services allow free calls between users of the same app.
- Flexibility: You can often make calls from various devices, including smartphones, computers, and tablets.
Using a reliable VoIP service like Telfon can make your calls to the Philippines far more affordable and manageable. You gain control over your spending without sacrificing call quality.
How Telfon Simplifies Calling the Philippines
Telfon is a leading virtual phone calling app designed to make international communication, especially international calls Australia Philippines, seamless and affordable. It’s a powerful tool that offers far more than just dialing, providing a smart solution for individuals and businesses alike.
A Smart Solution for International Calls
Telfon directly addresses the challenges of high costs and complex dialing procedures. It utilizes cloud telephony, offering a robust and reliable VoIP phone system. This means you can enjoy cheap calls to Philippines without compromising on call quality or connection reliability. Telfon helps you connect instantly, transforming how you communicate globally.
- Effortless Connectivity: Dial directly from the app, removing the need for complex exit codes.
- Crystal-Clear Audio: Experience high-definition call quality, making conversations feel local.
- Global Reach: Telfon provides calling services to over 180+ countries, making it a truly versatile tool.
Key Benefits for Individuals
For individuals, Telfon acts as your personal international calling assistant. It makes connecting with family and friends in the Philippines incredibly easy and cost-effective.
- Affordable Rates: Get some of the most competitive rates for calling the Philippines.
- Virtual Number Philippines: Purchase a virtual number Philippines through Telfon. This allows your contacts in the Philippines to call you at local rates, making it even more convenient for them.
- Easy-to-Use App: The intuitive interface ensures a smooth calling experience. You do not need to be tech-savvy to use it.
- SMS & WhatsApp Integration: Send and receive SMS messages, and even integrate multiple WhatsApp accounts for seamless messaging.
Key Benefits for Businesses
Telfon is a robust business phone system perfect for companies operating across borders. It provides a comprehensive suite of features that support various business needs, from customer support to international hiring.
- Enhanced Communication: Ideal for real estate, international hiring institutes, and customer support teams needing to interact with Philippine clients or candidates.
- Multi-Country Numbers: Manage virtual numbers from multiple countries simultaneously, simplifying your global presence.
- Call Management Features: Utilize call recordings for quality control, call forwarding to ensure no call is missed, and voicemail-to-text for efficient message handling.
- Analytics and Reporting: B2B features include user analytics, dashboard filters, and call/SMS history, giving you insights into your team’s communication.
- Budget Control: Assign budgets to users, manage phone numbers, and control messaging services efficiently.
Telfon’s Features for Your Calls
Telfon offers a comprehensive set of features designed to enhance your communication experience:
- International Calls to 180+ Countries: Connect with almost any country in the world.
- Purchase Virtual Numbers: Acquire numbers from various countries, including a virtual number Philippines.
- Call Recordings: Record important conversations for reference or training.
- Send & Receive SMS: Text your contacts internationally with ease.
- WhatsApp Integration: Link multiple WhatsApp accounts for integrated messaging.
- Voicemail & Voicemail to Text: Never miss a message and read your voicemails.
- Call Forwarding: Redirect calls to another number, ensuring you are always reachable.
- Multi-Language Support: Navigate the app in over 20 languages.
By choosing Telfon, you gain a reliable, feature-rich, and cost-effective solution for all your VOIP Australia to Philippines needs.
Connect with the Philippines Easily – Try Telfon Today!
Why Call the Philippines?
There are countless reasons why people in Australia need to connect with the Philippines. This vibrant country is a hub for personal connections, growing business opportunities, and exciting travel experiences.
Connecting with Family and Friends
For many Australians, the Philippines is home to beloved family members and cherished friends. Maintaining these relationships across borders is incredibly important. Regular calls allow you to:
- Share Life Updates: Keep up with daily happenings, big news, and small joys.
- Celebrate Together: Participate in birthdays, holidays, and other significant events, even from afar.
- Offer Support: Provide emotional support, advice, or simply a listening ear when needed.
These personal calls strengthen bonds and help bridge the geographical distance.
Business Opportunities
The Philippines has a rapidly growing economy and a large, skilled workforce, making it an attractive destination for Australian businesses. Companies often call the Philippines to:
- Expand Markets: Reach new customers and explore business ventures in Southeast Asia.
- Outsourcing and Partnerships: Collaborate with Philippine-based teams for customer support, IT services, or back-office functions. Many international hiring institutes in Australia regularly call the Philippines to recruit talent.
- Client Communication: Sales and marketing teams frequently connect with clients or potential leads in the Philippines.
- Supply Chain Management: Coordinate with suppliers and manufacturers.
Effective communication is the cornerstone of successful international business, and reliable calling solutions are essential.
Travel Planning
Planning a trip to the beautiful islands and bustling cities of the Philippines often involves making calls for:
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- Booking Accommodations: Reserving hotels, resorts, or guesthouses.
- Arranging Tours and Activities: Confirming reservations for adventures like island hopping or city tours.
- Local Inquiries: Asking about transport, local attractions, or other travel-related questions directly.
Whether it is for personal or professional reasons, having a clear and affordable way to call Philippines from Australia significantly enhances your ability to connect and achieve your goals.
Tips for a Smooth Calling Experience
A successful international call goes beyond just dialing the right numbers. A little preparation and awareness can make a big difference in the quality and convenience of your conversation.
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- Double-Check the Number: Always verify the full phone number, including country code, area code, and local number, before dialing. A single wrong digit can lead to a misdial.
- Confirm Time Zones: Use a reliable world clock to ensure you are calling at a convenient time for the recipient. Respecting their local hours shows consideration.
- Ensure a Stable Internet Connection (for VoIP): If you are using a VoIP service like Telfon, a strong and stable internet connection is crucial for clear audio and an uninterrupted call. Wi-Fi is generally preferred over mobile data for quality.
- Inform the Recipient: If possible, send a quick message or email ahead of time to let the person know you will be calling. This helps them be ready and avoid missing your call.
- Use a Reliable Service: Opt for a trusted provider like Telfon. Their cloud telephony solutions offer superior call quality and reliability compared to some free or less robust services.
- Keep it Brief Initially: If you are unsure about the connection, start with a short call. Once you confirm clarity, you can continue with a longer conversation.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure your calls to the Philippines are smooth, clear, and productive.
FAQ’s
Here are some common questions people ask about calling the Philippines from Australia:
Q1: What is the cheapest way to call the Philippines from Australia?
A: Using a VoIP service like Telfon is generally the cheapest way. They offer significantly lower per-minute rates or affordable international calling plans compared to traditional phone carriers.
Q2: Do I need an area code for Philippine mobile numbers?
A: No, you do not use an area code for Philippine mobile numbers. You will dial the country code (+63) followed by the 3-digit mobile prefix (e.g., 917) and then the 7-digit subscriber number.
Q3: How can I get a virtual Philippines number?
A: You can purchase a virtual number Philippines through services like Telfon. This allows your contacts in the Philippines to call you at their local rates, making communication more convenient and affordable for them.
Q4: What is the Australian international exit code?
A: The Australian international exit code for landlines is 0011. On mobile phones, you can simply use the ‘+’ symbol, which acts as a universal international access code.
Q5: Is calling the Philippines expensive?
A: Traditional calls can be expensive. However, using modern VoIP services and apps like Telfon makes cheap calls to Philippines very accessible and affordable.
Q6: Can I send SMS to the Philippines from Australia?
A: Yes, most mobile networks allow international SMS. Services like Telfon also offer integrated SMS sending and receiving features to the Philippines and other countries.
Q7: How does the time difference affect my calls?
A: The Philippines is generally 2 hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST). Always check the local time in the Philippines to ensure you call at a convenient hour, typically aiming for late morning or afternoon in the Philippines.
Q8: Is Telfon reliable for business calls to the Philippines?
A: Yes, Telfon provides a robust cloud telephony solution with features like call recordings, user analytics, and multi-country virtual numbers, making it highly reliable and efficient for businesses conducting calls to the Philippines.
Key Takeaways
Calling the Philippines from Australia is straightforward once you understand the correct sequence and available options. Here are the main points to remember for your next call:
- Dialing Sequence: Always start with Australia’s exit code (0011 for landline, ‘+’ for mobile), followed by the Philippines country code (+63). Then, dial the specific area code for landlines or the mobile prefix for cell numbers, concluding with the local digits.
- Time Zones: Be aware of the time difference. The Philippines is usually 2 hours behind AEST. Plan your calls to align with comfortable local times for the recipient.
- Cost-Effective Solutions: Traditional international calls can be pricey. VoIP services, such as Telfon, offer significantly cheap calls to Philippines and make VOIP Australia to Philippines an accessible and affordable option.
- Telfon’s Benefits: Telfon simplifies the entire process. It provides affordable rates, virtual numbers (including a virtual number Philippines), call recordings, SMS, and WhatsApp integration, catering to both individual and business communication needs.
- Preparation is Key: Always double-check the full phone number and confirm the best time to call for a smooth and successful connection.
Conclusion
Connecting with people in the Philippines from Australia has never been easier or more affordable. By understanding the dialing format, being mindful of time zones, and leveraging modern communication tools, you can maintain strong personal and professional relationships across borders.
Forget the days of expensive and complicated international calls Australia Philippines. With solutions like Telfon, you gain a powerful, user-friendly platform that brings the world closer. Whether you are reaching out to family, coordinating with business partners, or planning your next adventure, Telfon helps you make those vital connections with confidence and clarity. Take the next step and experience effortless global communication today.