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You’ve likely heard by now just how great 5G can be. With up to 10x the information-carrying capacity of the current 4G network, you can enjoy less lag, faster speeds and consistent connectivity. MATE runs on a trusted Australian network.
If you’re still umming and ahhing, then you’ll love the benefits of switching to one of the best 5G mobile plans MATE has to offer.
MATE uses the Telstra Wholesale Mobile Network, learn more here.
Download speeds are capped depending on your plan. This is the maximum potential download speed. Typical speeds may often be slower and will vary due to factors such as location, device capabilities, distance from the base station, local conditions, concurrent users, hardware and software configuration and download/upload destination. For more information, refer to our mobile plans page.
Our Better Mates 32GB 5G mobile plan comes with faster speeds and more capacity to help you stay connected
5G delivers higher mobile data speeds, improved connection ability, and lower latency

Download movies, music and other large files in minutes instead of hours

Increased bandwidth means faster mobile data speeds and less congestion

Quick response times between devices means less lag and loading times

Connects automatically to the 4G network when needed, ensuring you stay online
See our full range of 5G plans here!




5G stands for 5th generation mobile network. It is the latest generation of mobile network technology and the next mobile network evolution, following 3G and 4G technologies.
Yes. You’ll need a compatible 5G phone that isn’t locked to another provider and a MATE 5G-enabled mobile plan (capped speeds apply). You’ll also need to be in a Telstra Wholesale Mobile Network 5G coverage area.
To access 5G, you’ll need a 5G compatible device and be within a 5G coverage area. 5G is now available in most metro and regional areas and continues to expand (check coverage here).
5G with MATE is only available in selected areas and with selected plans.
5G delivers the latest mobile network technology so that users will notice higher mobile data speeds, improved connection ability, and lower latency.
| Plan | Typical Download Speeds (4G) | Typical Download Speeds (5G) | Typical Upload Speeds (4G & 5G) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soul Mates 160GB | 5Mbps to 180Mbps | 10Mbps to 250Mbps (Speed cap of 250Mbps) | 1Mbps to 40Mbps |
| Best Mates 60GB | 5Mbps to 150Mbps | 10Mbps to 150Mbps (Speed cap of 150Mbps) | 1Mbps to 40Mbps |
| Better Mates 32GB | 5Mbps to 150Mbps | 10Mbps to 150Mbps (Speed cap of 150Mbps) | 1Mbps to 40Mbps |
Download speeds are capped at 150Mbps or 250Mbps depending on your plan. This is the maximum potential download speed. Typical speeds may often be slower and will vary due to factors such as location, device capabilities, distance from the base station, local conditions, concurrent users, hardware and software configuration and download/upload destination.
For more information, refer to our mobile plans for cheap 5G plans.
On 4G, typical download speeds are 10 to 100Mbps, and upload speeds are 1 to 40Mbps, in 4G coverage areas.
On 5G, typical download speeds will vary depending on your plan’s speed cap, your device, and your location. Check our mobile plans page for typical speeds by plan.
In addition to faster speeds, 5G mobile plans add more capacity and aim to deliver improved latency. There’s more room for everyone on the network, so connected devices can maintain higher data speeds even in crowded areas.
To get 5G with MATE, you need:
The mobile product of MATE uses the Telstra Wholesale Mobile Network, with predicted coverage areas in all Australian major cities, most outer-metro areas and larger regional centres, as well as many smaller towns and transport corridors. Predicted coverage details are available on our mobile network coverage map.
MATE uses the Telstra Wholesale Mobile Network, learn more here.
Don’t fret! 5G mobile phones and devices will still use 4G. You won’t notice this, and it won’t affect your experience.
If you are in a 5G coverage area, a 5G symbol should appear on your device.
Outside of 5G coverage, 5G mobile phones and devices will continue to use our 4G network.
No, you can use your existing MATE SIM card, whether you have a physical SIM card or an eSIM, in a 5G phone. There is no need to change your SIM.
5G mobile phones can be purchased from all leading Australian electronics retailers, including JB Hi-Fi, The Good Guys and more.
MATE’s 5G mobile plans come with varying monthly data allowances to cater to different usage needs. Take a look at our range of 5G plans to find the perfect plan with the right monthly data allowance for you.
Yes, all MATE 5G mobile plans include unlimited talk and text to standard Australian numbers, so you can stay connected with friends and family without worrying about call charges.
Yes, MATE offers its 5G mobile plans on a no lock-in contract basis, giving you the flexibility to switch or cancel your plan without any additional fees.
To access MATE’s 5G mobile plans, you can either switch from your current service provider and sign up for new mobile services with MATE, or you can upgrade your existing MATE mobile service if you already have a 5G-compatible device.
MATE is proud to announce the release of our first 5G-enabled mobile plan, soul mates 5G.
5G is the latest generation of mobile technology and is the next evolution of mobile networks following 3G and 4G. 5G technology brings three main benefits to the table.
What are the differences between 5G vs 4G? What does this new generation of mobile technology and mobile networks do that the old ones don’t and how does that affect download speeds?
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