Wi-Fi Calling
Information up to date as of 28/08/2026
Stay connected, even when mobile coverage is limited.
Wi-Fi Calling allows you to make and receive calls and send SMS messages using a compatible mobile device over a Wi-Fi connection.
If you're somewhere with limited mobile coverage but have access to a reliable Wi-Fi network, Wi-Fi Calling can help you stay connected.
What is Wi-Fi Calling?
Wi-Fi Calling uses a Wi-Fi connection to connect your mobile calls and messages when mobile coverage is weak or unavailable. Once Wi-Fi Calling is enabled on your compatible device, your phone can automatically use an available Wi-Fi connection to make and receive calls when appropriate. There is no separate app required. Wi-Fi Calling works through your phone's standard calling and messaging functions.
Why use Wi-Fi Calling?
Wi-Fi Calling can be particularly useful when you're:
Inside buildings where mobile coverage is limited
In areas with poor mobile reception
At home or work with a reliable Wi-Fi connection
In locations where Wi-Fi coverage is stronger than mobile coverage
Wi-Fi Calling can provide improved call connectivity without requiring you to move to an area with stronger mobile reception.
How does Wi-Fi Calling work?
When Wi-Fi Calling is enabled, your compatible device determines whether to use the mobile network or an available Wi-Fi connection. Your phone may switch between available networks depending on signal strength and network conditions. For the best experience, we recommend using a reliable Wi-Fi connection with a strong signal.
How do I enable Wi-Fi Calling?
Wi-Fi Calling needs to be enabled in your device settings.
iPhone
Open Settings.
Select Mobile.
Select your Bendigo Telco mobile service.
Select Wi-Fi Calling.
Turn on Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone.
Follow any prompts displayed on your device.
Once enabled, your iPhone may display Wi-Fi Calling or your carrier name with Wi-Fi Calling when the feature is being used.
Samsung
Open Settings.
Select Connections.
Select Wi-Fi Calling.
Turn Wi-Fi Calling on.
Follow any prompts displayed on your device.
The exact menu options may vary depending on your Samsung model and software version.
Other Android devices
Wi-Fi Calling settings can vary between Android manufacturers and device models.
Look under Settings > Connections, Settings > Network & Internet, or search your device settings for Wi-Fi Calling.
If the option isn't available, your device may not support Wi-Fi Calling or may require a software update.
What do I need to use Wi-Fi Calling?
To use Wi-Fi Calling, you generally need:
An active Bendigo Telco mobile service
A compatible Wi-Fi Calling-enabled device
The latest available device software
A reliable Wi-Fi connection
Wi-Fi Calling enabled in your device settings
Availability can depend on your mobile service, device model and software version.
Can I use Wi-Fi Calling at home?
Yes. Wi-Fi Calling can be particularly useful at home if mobile reception is limited but you have a reliable Wi-Fi connection. Once enabled, your compatible device can use your home Wi-Fi connection to make and receive calls where supported.
Does Wi-Fi Calling use my mobile data?
No. Wi-Fi Calling uses your Wi-Fi connection rather than your mobile data allowance. Your normal mobile service terms and conditions still apply to calls and SMS made through Wi-Fi Calling.
Can I send SMS using Wi-Fi Calling?
Where supported by your device and service, SMS can also be sent and received over Wi-Fi. This means you can continue using your standard messaging application even when mobile reception is limited.
What happens if I leave my Wi-Fi network?
If you move away from your Wi-Fi connection, your device may automatically switch back to the mobile network when mobile coverage is available. The experience can vary depending on your device, network conditions, and available coverage.
Emergency Triple Zero Calls
When making an emergency Triple Zero (000) call, your mobile device will first attempt to connect using the Optus mobile network. Optus is Bendigo Telco’s mobile carrier provider.
If Optus mobile coverage is not available or is insufficient to complete the call, your device will automatically search for other available mobile networks and attempt to connect to an emergency service.
Using a mobile network for emergency Triple Zero calls is preferred, as this allows more location information to be provided to emergency services.
If no mobile networks are available to carry the call, your device may then attempt to make the call using Wi-Fi Calling, provided that:
You have an active Wi-Fi connection.
Your device supports calls over Wi-Fi Calling.
Your device is running the latest supported software.
Important information about Triple Zero calls over Wi-Fi Calling
There are some limitations when making emergency Triple Zero calls using Wi-Fi Calling.
Your device must be compatible and have the latest software version that supports emergency Triple Zero calls over Wi-Fi Calling.
Download the Emergency+ App emergencyapp.triplezero.gov.au
We recommend downloading the Emergency+ app, a free Australian Government-developed app that uses your device's GPS functionality to help provide important location information to emergency services.
Your location when calling 000 over Wi-Fi
When making an emergency Triple Zero call using Wi-Fi Calling, your location may not be automatically provided to emergency services.
When your call is answered, the emergency operator will ask you for your location. It is important that you clearly provide your location and any other information requested by the emergency operator.
If you are able to make an emergency call using a mobile network, this is preferred over Wi-Fi Calling.
The WiFi Calling service will not be able to receive National Emergency Warning System (NEWS) SMS warnings.
Troubleshooting Wi-Fi Calling
If Wi-Fi Calling isn't working, try the following:
1. Check that Wi-Fi Calling is enabled
Go into your device settings and make sure Wi-Fi Calling is switched on.
2. Check your Wi-Fi connection
Make sure your device is connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network and that you can access the internet.
3. Restart your device
Turning your phone off and back on can resolve temporary connection issues.
4. Check for software updates
Make sure your device is running the latest available software.
5. Try another Wi-Fi network
If possible, connect to another Wi-Fi network to determine whether the issue is related to your current Wi-Fi connection.
6. Contact Bendigo Telco
If Wi-Fi Calling still isn't working, our team can help check your mobile service and troubleshoot the issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wi-Fi Calling an app?
No. Wi-Fi Calling is built into compatible mobile devices and works through your phone's standard calling and messaging functions.
Do I need to download anything?
No. You don't need to download a separate application. You simply need a compatible device and Wi-Fi Calling enabled in your device settings.
Will Wi-Fi Calling improve my mobile reception?
Wi-Fi Calling doesn't improve the mobile signal itself. Instead, it allows your compatible device to use a Wi-Fi connection for supported calls and messages when mobile coverage is limited.
Does Wi-Fi Calling cost extra?
There is generally no separate charge for enabling Wi-Fi Calling. Calls and SMS are charged according to your existing Bendigo Telco mobile plan and applicable terms.
Do I need to change the way I use my phone?
No. Wi-Fi Calling works just like making and receiving calls and messages over the mobile network.
You can continue using your phone as you normally would, with no additional steps required once Wi-Fi Calling is enabled.
Your existing supplementary services, including Voicemail, Call Forwarding and Caller ID, will continue to work as they do today.
There’s nothing new you need to learn or change simply use your phone as normal.
Does Wi-Fi calling work while the phone is in aeroplane mode?
Yes. Wi-Fi Calling can work while your phone is in Airplane Mode, provided that you turn Wi-Fi back on and your device supports Wi-Fi Calling.
Wi-Fi Calling uses the same SIM-based authentication as your mobile service to securely connect your device to the network.
Encryption technology is also used to establish a secure connection between your device and the mobile network, helping to ensure that your calls and messages are transmitted securely.
Why can't I see the Wi-Fi Calling option on my phone?
The option may not appear if your device doesn't support Wi-Fi Calling, your software is out of date, or the feature isn't available for your particular service or device configuration.
Can I use Wi-Fi Calling overseas?
Wi-Fi Calling availability and functionality can vary when overseas. International roaming and calling charges may also apply depending on your destination and mobile plan. Check your international roaming options before travelling.
Need help?
If you've enabled Wi-Fi Calling but are still having trouble making or receiving calls, contact the Bendigo Telco team on 1300 228 123 .
We're here to help keep you connected.