Calls cost between five and 10 cents a minute, depending on the type of package a customer signs up to use.

Talk International rids the fuss of a calling card, allowing customers to make cheap phone calls to selected international destinations by calling from their mobile in exactly the same way as dialling locally. No more choosing a language, entering a PIN or dialling twenty numbers, only to discover the line is busy.

Each package includes a Skype allowance so customers can talk or message anyone else using Skype.

,"3 already offers a generous international calling allowance as part of each Cap plan," claims Noel Hamill, 3's Director of Sales, Marketing. "Now over the Christmas holidays we've made it even easier for our customers to keep in touch with family and friends across the miles.

To sign up, FREE SMS "Talk" to 333 999 or visit a 3 store, call 133 907 or check out www.three.com.au