Hey Stretch, welcome to Canadian Content forums
Good to see you here!
Re: australian phones working here. I would suggest you get the following information from your current phone provider:
1) What technology is my phone based on? TDMA, CDMA, GSM, Analogue?
if they answered "GSM" to the first question, go on.. If not, there's nothing you can do.
2) What frequency does my phone use on the GSM network? 1800,1900,800,etc.
if they answered "1900", or if you know your phone supports 1900mhz, you can go on by making sure your phone is UNLOCKED!
Chances are, you'll have to shell out for a new phone. But if you're lucky and got through all the questions above, you have the choice between Fido (www.fido.ca) or Rogers AT&T Wireless (www.rogersatt.ca).
I hope this helps you out.