Area Code 2496 – Newcastle
The phone area code for Newcastle is 2496 (international format +612496). Browse local exchange codes (NXX) and carrier assignments below.
📞 Exchange Codes (NXX) for Area Code 2496
Select a central office code to view local carrier data and detailed information
📍 Geographic Location of Newcastle
Geographic Overview
The Australian area code +61 2 496 belongs to the geographic numbering region of Newcastle, New South Wales. This code is part of the larger 02 National Destination Code (NDC) that covers the eastern states of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. Within this NDC, the 2496 prefix is specifically allocated to the Central Office Code (COC) serving the Newcastle metropolitan area and its immediate surroundings. Newcastle, located approximately 160 kilometers north of Sydney, is the second-largest city in New South Wales and a major industrial and maritime hub. The 2496 prefix is used for fixed-line (PSTN) services, including residential, business, and government lines, within this region.
Dialing Formats
For local callers within the 02 NDC region (including Sydney, Newcastle, and surrounding areas), the number is dialed as 02 496x xxxx (10 digits total, including the leading 0). For callers from other parts of Australia, the same format applies: 02 496x xxxx. For international callers, the number must be dialed as +61 2 496x xxxx (dropping the leading 0). Note that the 02 NDC is not an overlay; it is a single geographic area, and local calls within this region are typically charged at local rates.
Coverage and Administration
The 2496 prefix is administered by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) and is assigned to various carriers operating in the Newcastle area. It covers the city of Newcastle, including suburbs such as Newcastle CBD, Cooks Hill, Mayfield, and surrounding areas like Charlestown and Wallsend. The prefix is used for both traditional copper-line services and modern VoIP-based fixed-line services, which are increasingly common. Number portability allows customers to retain their 2496 number when switching service providers, ensuring continuity of service.
Caller Instructions
Local callers: Dial the 10-digit national number (e.g., 02 4962 1234). Interstate callers: Same 10-digit national number. International callers: Dial your country's exit code (e.g., 011 from the US), then 61, then the 9-digit number without the leading 0 (e.g., 011 61 2 4962 1234). Always verify the number with the recipient to ensure correct dialing, especially when calling from mobile phones, as some networks may require the full international format.