Telstra's little way to get more money...

[ROGUE]

This is something that I didn't know.

Did you know that there is a number for directory assistance that is
FREE. It is 1223 (as opposed to 12 455 where this is charged at 25
cents) and is exactly the same service.

Apparently Telstra under Government law is supposed to provide a free
operator service - hence the number 1223. They are trying to make as
much money as possible with the number 12455.

From your mobile the number for call connect is 103, its the same deal
under legislation they have to provide the free service; they just don't
have to advertise it...

Pricks....

[vt2vx]

thanks i didn't know either

[nthnbeachesguy]

Is the mobile number the same for people with different carriers or is it telstra specific. Anyone know freecall numbers for the other carriers??

[Lani]

For TELSTRA customers:
SENSIS (1234) is advertising its new service, which has now incorporated the other numbers we know as “Telstra Connect 12456” and “Yellow Pages Connect 12451”, so if you call these numbers, be aware that SENSIS put their own charges for these calls.
I would read this, as it states its fees… in short 40c connection, 4c per SECOND, and mobile phone charges apply on top of that.
http://www.about.sensis.com.au/products/sensis_1234.php

[Heli]

IIRC, the free numbers are provided as a service to disabled people: one of my receptionists is blind, and we had to source these numbers for her.

Moot point, but they are provided for a specific service: if these numbers get abused and withdrawn, the ones who suffer will be those who need them most.

[chevypower]

free directory assistance should be abvailable to everyone, not just disabled people... otherwise that is discrimination...Nobody was suggesting to abuse it. But thanks for the info

[seldo]

I also understood it was a legislative requirement that there was free service available to all. Otherwise what happens when you are stuck at a public phone because there are never any books...It's just that Telstra found it was a good way to turn an extra dollar, especially the call-connect, but there is no obligation for them to promote the free service, just to provide it.