For Australian small to medium businesses (SMBs), staying connected with customers is everything. But in Australia’s unique telecom landscape, mobile numbers on the GSM network aren’t as flexible as you might hope. Unlike the USA, where local DIDs can often double as mobile numbers, Australian GSM mobile numbers (starting with 04) are the only ones that support SMS, leaving local DIDs out in the cold. Enter SIPcity’s Virtual Mobile Numbers, a game-changing solution that brings mobile numbers to your VoIP system. Serving over 5,000 Aussie SMBs, SIPcity lets you use these numbers for calls and SMS, all while slashing costs like international roaming. Our latest innovation tackles the challenges outlined in the EY “Top 10 Risks for Telecommunications in 2025” report. Here’s how Virtual Mobile Numbers can transform your business.
Australia’s Telecom Quirk: Why GSM Matters
In Australia, the telecom rules are distinct. GSM mobile numbers are king for SMS—local DIDs simply don’t cut it. This limitation can frustrate SMBs who want a unified system for calls and texts. The Big 3—Telstra, Optus, and TPG—often tie you to rigid plans that don’t solve this. SIPcity’s Virtual Mobile Numbers bridge the gap. By turning a mobile number into a VoIP-enabled asset, we let you manage calls and SMS from one platform, like our Cloud PBX. It’s a practical fix for a uniquely Australian problem, keeping your business agile.
What Are Virtual Mobile Numbers?
So, what exactly are Virtual Mobile Numbers? They’re Australian mobile numbers (04 prefixes) that live on SIPcity’s VoIP network, not a physical SIM. You can add them to your existing Hosted VoIP system, enabling both voice calls and SMS. Unlike traditional mobile plans, these numbers work through our web app or softphone, giving you flexibility without the hefty costs. Priced from just $10/month, they’re a cost-effective way to stay connected, whether your team’s in Sydney or travelling abroad.
Benefit 1: Seamless Calls and SMS
One of the biggest wins with Virtual Mobile Numbers is their versatility. Your customers can call or text your 04 number, and you’ll manage it all through SIPcity’s UCaaS platform. Send promotional SMS, confirm appointments, or handle queries—our system supports two-way messaging, unlike local DIDs. Plus, features like call queuing and auto attendant (IVR) ensure you never miss a call. For SMBs, this means a professional image without juggling multiple devices or plans. It’s all in one place, saving you time and hassle.
Benefit 2: No More Roaming Nightmares
Travelling overseas can rack up brutal roaming charges with traditional mobile plans. The ACCC’s 2023 article notes Aussies often face unexpected fees abroad. With SIPcity, you can port your existing mobile number to our VoIP system and use it anywhere with an internet connection—no roaming fees. Whether you’re in London or Launceston, your Virtual Mobile Number works via our softphone or web app, keeping costs predictable. It’s a lifesaver for SMBs with global ambitions.
Benefit 3: Flexibility for Your Team
Your team’s on the move—office, home, or on-site. Virtual Mobile Numbers let them take their 04 number anywhere, using a softphone or mobile app. Need to redirect calls? Our simultaneous ring feature sends calls to multiple devices, so your team stays reachable. You can also set up voicemail-to-email or SMS notifications to keep everyone in the loop. This flexibility aligns with EY’s 2025 warning about skills shortages—our intuitive tools mean your staff can focus on customers, not complex systems.
Benefit 4: Cost Savings That Add Up
Cost is a big deal for SMBs. Traditional mobile plans from the Big 3 often come with high fees, especially for SMS or international use. SIPcity’s Virtual Mobile Numbers are budget-friendly, starting at $10/month with SMS capabilities. There’s no per-user fee for our Cloud PBX, and you only pay for calls. Check our pricing plans to see the value. Plus, porting your number to SIPcity cuts out carrier lock-ins, giving you freedom and savings. It’s telecom that works for your bottom line.
Benefit 5: A Competitive Edge in 2025
The EY report highlights hyperscalers like AWS entering telecom, putting pressure on traditional providers. SMBs need tools to stay sharp. Virtual Mobile Numbers integrate with Microsoft Teams via Direct Routing, blending calls, SMS, and team messaging into one hub. This unified approach—part of our UCaaS platform—keeps you ahead of competitors stuck with fragmented systems. Plus, our exclusive 04 numbers give you a local presence that builds trust with customers.
Addressing 2025 Risks with Confidence
The EY report flags cybersecurity as a top risk, with breaches costing millions. Our Virtual Mobile Numbers use encrypted VoIP channels, ensuring secure calls and texts. Connectivity issues, another EY concern, are mitigated by our reliable Cloud PBX running over NBN. Unlike the Big 3’s occasional outages—like Telstra’s 3G shutdown woes—we prioritise consistent service for SMBs. With SIPcity, you’re ready for 2025’s challenges.
Why SIPcity’s Solution Stands Out
The Big 3 offer mobile plans, but they don’t match the flexibility of Virtual Mobile Numbers. SIPcity’s solution is unique—Australian 04 numbers on a VoIP network, supporting SMS and calls, with no roaming fees. We’re not just another provider; we’re a partner for over 5,000 SMBs, delivering a system that’s easy to use and backed by Aussie-based support. Our team’s here to set you up and keep things running smoothly, no call centre runarounds.
Getting Started Is Simple
Switching to Virtual Mobile Numbers is straightforward. Chat with our team—we’re real people, not bots. We’ll add a new 04 number or port your existing one, often in days. Use it on our web app, softphone, or Teams, with setup tailored to your needs. Our support stays with you, ensuring your business stays connected.
Your Telecom Future Starts Here
In 2025, SMBs need telecom that’s flexible, affordable, and secure. SIPcity’s Virtual Mobile Numbers deliver just that—calls, SMS, and global reach without the Big 3’s baggage. From our Cloud PBX to UCaaS integration, we’ve got the tools to keep you ahead. Ready to transform how you connect? Visit our Virtual Mobile Numbers page and let’s make it happen.
