How to call China from Australia?

Did you know that more than 1.4 million Chinese-Australians communicate with family and friends back home in China? Calling China, however, can be difficult due to complex country codes and time zones.

Imagine trying to contact loved ones or discuss a business proposal halfway over the world, only to be confused by international dialling codes. Isn’t this frustrating? Well, fear not.

This guide will help you make calls to China without any problem. We’ve got you covered, whether you’re closing business deals or communicating with loved ones. No more dropped calls or wasted minutes! With our simple steps, calling China from Australia will be a breeze. So, forget the dialling anxiety and prepare to reconnect!

How do I call China from Australia?

To call China from Australia, follow these step-by-step guides:

Step 1: Dial the Australian exit Code

Start by dialling “0011”, which is Australia’s exit code for international calls.

(Pro tip: You can also use the “+” symbol as an alternative to the correct international exit code for any country.)

Step 2: Enter the Country Code for China

Next, dial “86”-this is China’s country code.

Step 3: Add Area Code

There are over 400 area codes in China. Area codes in China are typically 2-4 digits long. If you are calling from a landline, you’ll need to include the area code. Here are some major cities and popular China area codes:

You can skip this step if you’re dialling a mobile number.

Here’s a key point to remember: When calling from outside China, drop the zero at the beginning of the area code. It’s like an international dialling shortcut!

Step 4: Dial the Number

Finally, enter the phone number of the person or business you’re calling in China.

The full sequence looks like this:

0011 > 86 > Area Code > Local Number

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How to call a mobile number in China from Australia?

Calling a Chinese mobile from Australia is easy. Just follow these steps:

1. Dial the “+” symbol usually by long-pressing the “0” key. (This is an alternative to dialling 0011)
2. Enter China’s country code: 86
3. Dial the 11-digit mobile phone number (typically starting with 1 or 9)

For example, to call the Chinese number 123 4567 8901, you’d dial:

+86 123 4567 8901

How to call a landline number in China from Australia?

For calling a China using a landline, use these four easy steps:

1. Dial Australia’s exit code: 0011
2. Enter China’s country code: 86
3. Add the China area code of the city (e.g., Shanghai): (0)21
4. Dial the local landline number: 1234 5678

So, if you’re calling a Shanghai number, 1234 5678, you’d dial:

0011 86 21 1234 5678

Choosing the Right Calling Method

For international calls, there are generally two main options: Direct dialling and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services.

1. Direct Dialling

This is the conventional method- pick up your phone, dial the number, and you’re connected. It’s simple and widely accessible but can be costly for long or frequent calls.

2. Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP)

VoIP services offer a more modern, cost-effective solution with several advantages:

• Advanced features like video conferencing and call recording
• Significantly reduced rates for international calls
• Integration with various business tools and CRMs
• Mobile apps for calling on the go
• Flexibility to call from multiple devices

Ready to make your call to China? Don’t let confusion hold you back any longer. Try our VoIP services for affordable and crystal-clear international calls. Contact us now to get started!

How Much Does It Cost to Call China from Australia?

The cost of calling China from Australia can vary widely based on factors like your service provider, calling plan, time of day, and call duration. Here’s a general cost estimate:

• Landline: $0.50-$3 per minute
• Mobile: $0.50-$2 per minute
• VoIP: $0.02-$0.10 per minute

Also Read: How Much Does Business VoIP Cost?

Additional tips on when to call China from Australia

1. Time Zone Considerations 

China has only one time zone, China Standard Time (CST). Depending on your location in Australia and the time of year, China can be 0 to 3 hours behind. Always verify the current time difference before making your call. The centre of Australia is 45 minutes ahead of the centre of China.

2. Avoid Peak Hours 

Try to avoid calling during China’s busiest hours, typically 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. local time. This helps you sidestep network congestion and potential connection issues. For non-urgent matters, consider calling during weekends or holidays when networks are less busy.

3. Check Business Hours 

If you’re calling for business purposes, be mindful of standard Chinese business hours: generally 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with a lunch break from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Confirming the recipient’s availability can save you time and potential frustration.

How Can I Call China for Free from Australia?

While truly free international calling is rare, there are several low-cost or potentially free options:

1. Internet-based Apps: Services like WeChat, WhatsApp, Skype, and QQ offer free voice and video calls between users. Both parties need the app and an internet connection.
2. Free VoIP Services: Some VoIP providers offer free calls to certain countries, including China. These offers may be limited or require an account.
3. Mobile Plans with International Minutes: Many Australian mobile carriers now offer plans that include international minutes to select countries, including China. Check with your provider to see if they offer such plans, which could allow you to call China without additional charges.
4. International Calling Cards: Some cards come with free minutes to specific countries. For example, if you purchase a card, you might get some free talk time to China.
5. Callback Services: These services initiate calls by calling both parties. Some offer free trials or complimentary minutes. You request a call online, and the service calls you and your contact in China, connecting you for free or at a reduced rate.

Conclusion

Calling China from Australia doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With the right knowledge and tools, you can easily bridge the distance and stay connected with your contacts in China. Remember to consider time zones, choose the most cost-effective method, and always double-check your dialling sequence.

Remember, choosing the right calling method, such as VoIP services, can not only save you money but also enhance your communication experience with features like flexibility and cost-effectiveness. So, why wait?

Contact us today to explore our VoIP services and stay connected with your contacts in China effortlessly. Feel free to reach out for any further assistance or questions. Happy calling!