My daughter has moved about an hour plus north of Newcastle along the Pacific Highway and she has found that while Vodaphone covers the nearby 'Town', her connection is very patchy which didnt surprise me.
Being in a 'Blackspot' area I am well aware that for most, if there is any service its Telstra, maybe Optus and almost none of the other Carriers are available.

One of her neighbours suggested she try the ALDI SIM card and as she has an unlocked phone and not on a Plan this might be the way to go.

I am wondering what the reception for Vodaphone is like between say Newcastle and Forster, is it near continuous or hit and miss which if she needs to travel when she gets a job, isnt good in case you need assistance.