September 11, 2026
From 1 July 2019, new regulations were introduced to make switching mobile phone providers easier than ever.
If you want to switch mobile phone providers, you can now request a PAC or STAC code via text, online or by phone.
Here’s how it works:
| Step one | Step two | Step three | Step four |
| Request your switching code by texting a free number, going online or calling your provider | Receive your code along with important account details like any outstanding charges owed | When you’re ready to switch, give the code to your new provider | Your service is switched within one working day. The old service ends on the same day and there are no notice period charges to pay |
Step one
- Text ‘INFO’ to 85075 to get an SMS detailing relevant information like your contract end date
- Text “PAC” to 65075 to get an SMS listing your PAC code, which you can use to transfer your number over to your new provider
- Text “STAC” to 75075 to get an SMS listing your STAC code, which your new provider can use to disconnect your existing number if they’re giving you a new one
Any early termination fees will also be included in all text messages
You can also get your PAC and STAC codes and your switching information through our online self-service portal.
Log in, go to the Mobile Management page and follow the on-screen instructions.
Step two
Once you’ve requested your code, we’ll send it to you along with important account details like any outstanding charges you may owe.
We have to do that within two working days, or within two hours if you have a consumer agreement.
Step three
When you’re ready to switch, you give your code to your new provider. Once you’ve received a PAC or STAC code, you’ll need to pass that to your new provider.
The codes will only be valid for 30 days
Step four
Your phone service will switch within one working day. The old service ends on the same day and there are no notice period charges to pay.
Your new provider will take ownership of the existing mobile phone number using the PAC code. Or they’ll provide a new mobile phone number and ensure the old number is disconnected from the old provider using the STAC code.
They have to complete that process within one working day of you sending them the relevant code.
Please note
- PACs and STACs are Vvalid for 30 days
- The above ‘request by SMS’ processes can only be used for a single request at a time and only for the mobile phone number sending the SMS
- Requests for between 2-24 numbers can be made online or by phone and are covered under the policies laid out under the new regulations
- There is no charge for SMS sent and received when using this service
- Contracted notice periods and related fees are not chargeable when using this service
- This applies to your mobile connection only, not any hardware
