Internet of Things (IoT) numbers

There are 2 types of numbers that can be used for IoT services:

1. 09 numbers are public numbers used for IoT services that require roaming, messages services or voice telephony.
2. 19 numbers are private numbers used for IoT data-only services. The ACMA does not allocate these numbers; they are used for IoT services that are accessible only on one telco’s network.

Consumer charges for communications involving IoT devices depend on the service and provider. They may differ from standard mobile call or SMS charges.

What is an 09 number?

An 09 number is a type of Australian phone number specifically designated for public IoT services, such as connected devices, monitoring systems and automated services. These numbers help distinguish machine-to-machine communications from traditional mobile services. They may be used for devices such as Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS). If you receive an alert or call from a PERS device, the notification may display a number beginning with 09.

What is an IoT service?

An IoT service is used for devices that connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the internet or other communication networks, often without human involvement. Examples of an IoT service include GPS trackers, connected cars, remote monitoring, smart agriculture and other ‘smart’ devices and services.

Why 09 numbers are being introduced

The introduction of the 09 number range helps manage demand for Australia’s numbering resources. By moving IoT services off the 04 mobile range, numbering resources are used more efficiently, and future exhaustion of mobile numbers can be delayed. It also improves transparency, allowing consumers and networks to better identify the type of service associated with a number.

Why you might receive calls or messages from a number starting with 09

You might receive communications from a service that uses IoT technology, such as a medical alert device, alarm system or monitoring service. These services are transitioning to 09 numbers so they can be more easily identified as IoT-related communications.

Emergency devices and 09 numbers

Some emergency devices such as Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS) are considered IoT services. From 25 March 2026, such services must use 09 numbers. Existing services can continue to use 04 numbers. Service providers should make users aware of this change to ensure emergency contacts recognise these numbers. 

What to do about IoT devices that use a 04 number

Only new services connected after 25 March 2026 are required to use an 09 number. If you have a device that was allocated an 04 number before this date, you do not need to change your number. The number of your existing service will not change. 

Safety of 09 numbers

09 numbers are legitimate numbers used for IoT services. However, you should always exercise caution when receiving unexpected calls or messages, as scammers can use any number range. If you are concerned, contact your service provider directly to confirm whether the communication is legitimate before taking any action,.

If you expect to receive alerts from an IoT device, such as from a family member’s PERS, it is best practice to save the number of the device to your phone contacts. This can help you recognise the number quickly and avoid missing an important call or message. 

Porting 09 numbers between providers

The 09 number range does not support number porting between carriers. 

New IoT services 

As of 25 March 2026, IoT services must use 09 numbers. This will help to preserve the 04 range for mobile services and reduce demand for that numbering type. Any IoT service that was connected before 25 March 2026 can continue to use the existing 04 number.

Bring your own SIM (BYO SIM) arrangements

Where devices and IoT services are supplied using BYO SIM arrangements, an 09 SIM should be used. Carriage service providers must ensure that the numbers used comply with the Numbering Plan and the correct number type is used for the service being supplied. 

Customers with an existing 04 SIM 

As of 25 March 2026, new IoT services must use 09 numbers. However, IoT services using 04 numbers connected before this date may continue to use that number. 

What to do if non-compliant use is identified

If a carriage service provider becomes aware that an 04 number is being used for an IoT service activated after 25 March 2026, it should take proactive steps to align the service with the appropriate number type and communicate the changes to the customer.

Devices that cannot support 09 numbers

In the unlikely scenario that a device is technically incompatible with 09 numbers, an 04 number may only be used where no other number type is permitted under the numbering plan. Carriage service providers should report such cases to us by emailing numbering@acma.gov.au.

Raising consumer awareness

We encourage carriage service providers and IoT service suppliers to proactively inform customers about the 09 number range, particularly at the point of activation. This will help to build consumer familiarity and reduce the risk that legitimate communications may be ignored or mistaken for spam or scams.