Skype is only free when you call other Skype users who are registered with Skype. To call a land line in any country is called "Skype out" and requires a minimum of £10 credit. As the previous posted suggested if they have any type of PC in Aus then just set up a Skype account and get them to e mail you their user name, you enter it in the search box, request friend they click accept and away you go. It's actually easier to do than explain. Skype out is still cheap, I put £10 on months ago and still have £5 left.