Rounding up mobile phone plans

More than 80% of Aussies choose their insurance policy based on price rather than the most suitable coverage.

This can end up being a costly mistake when it comes time to claim. Part of the problem may be that consumers simply don't understand insurance and what to look for.

That's why the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) launched the website www.understandinsurance.com.au. You'll find info on almost all types of general insurance including home, contents, business, vehicle, travel and pets.

There are details on how insurance works, with a guide to buying it, how to prepare for disasters and how to make claims and resolve disputes.

There are also a contents calculator, a building calculator and a household inventory checklist.

Charity to benefit

Community First has launched a McGrath Pink Debit card that can be linked to its everyday transaction account. There is a $5 monthly account fee and the card costs $2 a month - half of that is donated to the McGrath Foundation, the cancer charity.

Roaming further

Vodafone has added six Asian countries to its $5-a-day international roaming plans.

They are China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Singapore, Japan and Thailand. "Asia is a hugely popular destination for Australians taking a holiday, with Bali and Thailand among the top spots for short overseas trips," says Kim Clarke, Vodafone's chief marketing officer.

"We want to give our customers the experience of using their smartphones in Asia just as they would when they're at home." Vodafone's international roaming offer now covers 46 countries, including the US, New Zealand, UK and most European nations.

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