1300 Number vs Local Number: Which Is Better for Your Business?
Choosing between a 1300 number and a local phone number is a common decision for Australian businesses.
Both options can work well, but they support different business goals. A local number may help build a strong regional presence, while a 1300 number can create a more professional national image with flexible call routing.
This guide compares the two options to help you decide which number type is better for your business.
What Is a Local Number?
A local business number uses a geographic area code such as:
- 02
- 03
- 07
- 08
These numbers are tied to a region and often help customers associate your business with a particular area.
Local numbers are commonly used by:
- trades
- local service providers
- professional offices
- regionally focused businesses
What Is a 1300 Number?
A 1300 number is a national inbound business number that can route calls to almost any destination.
It is not tied to a physical office location, which means calls can be forwarded to:
- mobiles
- office phones
- remote staff
- call queues
- cloud phone systems
This makes 1300 numbers highly flexible for growing businesses.
Learn more:
The Main Difference
The main difference is how the number positions your business.
Local Number
A local number says:
- we are local
- we serve this area
- we are based nearby
1300 Number
A 1300 number says:
- we operate nationally
- we are established
- we have a professional call handling setup
Neither is automatically better. The right choice depends on your business model.
When a Local Number Is Better
A local number may be the better option if:
- you serve a specific suburb, city or region
- local trust is important
- most customers expect a nearby provider
- your business is small and location-based
Examples include:
- suburban plumbing businesses
- local accountants
- single-location medical clinics
- local legal practices
In these cases, a local number can feel more familiar and approachable.
When a 1300 Number Is Better
A 1300 number may be better if:
- you operate across multiple regions
- you advertise broadly
- you want a stronger professional image
- calls need to route to different staff or locations
- you want one number even if your office changes
Examples include:
- national service businesses
- franchises
- multi-location businesses
- businesses with remote teams
- growing SMEs
A 1300 number is particularly useful if you want a single number across your website, advertising and marketing materials.
Call Routing Flexibility
One of the biggest advantages of a 1300 number is flexible routing.
Calls can be sent to:
- the office during business hours
- a mobile after hours
- a sales team
- a support queue
- a remote worker
Local numbers can also forward calls, but 1300 numbers are typically designed around more advanced call management.
Learn more:
How Inbound Call Routing Works
Professional Image
A 1300 number often creates a more established and scalable business image.
That matters if:
- your business is competing for larger jobs
- you want to look more structured
- your customers are comparing multiple providers
A local number may still work well, but it often feels more informal and location-specific.
Cost Considerations
Local Number
Usually low-cost and simple to maintain.
1300 Number
Typically involves:
- a monthly service fee
- inbound call charges
- optional premium cost for memorable numbers
However, many businesses consider the extra cost worthwhile because of the branding and routing advantages.
Which Option Is Right for Your Business?
A local number is usually better if your business is:
- very local
- small and owner-operated
- focused on neighbourhood trust
A 1300 number is usually better if your business is:
- growing
- serving multiple areas
- investing in marketing
- wanting one national contact point
In many cases, the best solution is to use both:
- a local number for local identity
- a 1300 number for broader brand presence and routing
Summary
Both local numbers and 1300 numbers can work well, but they support different goals.
Choose a local number if your business is strongly tied to one location and local trust matters most.
Choose a 1300 number if your business wants a more professional national image, flexible call routing, and a number that can grow with your team.
Explore 1300 Number Options
Browse available business number solutions here:
You can also compare 1300 and 1800 options here: