Mobile Phones and Service Plans
We can help you get set up with a work mobile, whether you need a new handset, a service plan, or both.
What we offer
| Option | Detail |
|---|---|
| Mobile phone purchase | A new handset, either iPhone or Android. Use this if you already have a Council service plan or you'll be using an eSIM on an existing device. |
| Mobile phone purchase + service plan | A new handset with a Council mobile number and data plan. This is the most common option for new starters or anyone moving off a personal phone. |
| Service plan only (eSIM) | A Council number and data plan added to a phone you already have. No new hardware needed. Most phones from the last few years support eSIM, so you can run your personal number and your work number on the same device. |
One phone, not two
We recommend carrying a single mobile device rather than a separate personal and work phone unless you're an outdoor worker. There are a few reasons for this:
- It's more convenient. One device to charge, one to carry, one to keep track of.
- It's better for the environment. Every extra handset means more materials, more energy and more e-waste. Fewer devices is the more sustainable choice.
- It's safer. Two devices means twice the number of phones that can be lost, stolen or left unpatched. Keeping your work profile on one managed device gives us a clearer picture of what needs protecting.
If you already own a phone you're happy with, the eSIM option is usually the simplest way to go.
We don't manage your phone
We no longer apply device management to mobile phones. Your phone is treated as a personal device, and looking after it is your responsibility. That means:
- Keeping the operating system and apps up-to-date
- Using a passcode, fingerprint, or face unlock
- Not sharing the device with others
- Letting us know straight away if it's lost or stolen
We can't see what's on your phone. If you lose it, you can manage location and device wipe options with your Apple or Google account.
How you use your phone still needs to line up with the ICT Usage Policy.
The exception: Outdoor workers
Phones assigned to outdoor staff are managed by us. There are two reasons for this:
- They're out in the field a lot more often, so there's a higher chance of a phone being lost or stolen. Management lets us locate a missing device and protect Council information on it.
- They need access to internal corporate systems like Pathway, which requires a managed device.
Being managed doesn't restrict how you use the phone day to day.
Your work profile stays separate
Sharing a device doesn't mean sharing your personal information. Council apps and data sit inside a managed work profile, kept separate from your personal apps, photos and messages. We can't see your personal content, and if you leave Council or lose the phone we can remove the work side without touching anything else.
How to request a phone or plan
Send us a message and let us know:
- Which of the three options you need
- Whether you'd prefer iPhone or Android
What happens next
Once your request is approved by your manager we'll order the handset or set up the plan. We'll let you know when it's ready and walk you through getting signed in and set up.