Payphone History

Every public telephone ever used in Australia, the US and the UK – preserved, documented, and remembered.

The beginnings of Australian public telephony, from the first coin slots to early street installations.

The iconic Mid-century models that defined Australian payphones throughout the 60s to the 90s.

The classic British phone booth designs that influenced telecoms around the world.

From timber kiosks to modern glass booths – the shelters that housed Australia’s public telephones.

Wierd and wonderful colourful Payphones installed in shops, pubs, and transport hubs – an essential part of everyday life.

Interesting designs with many European sourced elements.

From Superman to modern street payphones – the US contribution to global payphone culture.

Browse the complete catalogue of every Australian payphone documented on this site.

Learn more about this project, why it was created, and how you can contribute.

Contribute Your Story

Do you remember using a payphone? Have a photo or memory to share? Help us preserve this history.