Can telstra use my private number to make marketing calls? Anyone know where I stand legally here?

Answer 1

Yes, they can unfortunately. Luckily, legislation is being implemented that will force marketers in Australia to use a national Do Not Call list, similar to what's already in place in other countries. This does not go into effect until May of this year and they cannot accept registrations until that time, either. You can read more about it here:

http://www.dcita.gov.au/communications_for_consumers/telephone_services/do_not_call

Until then, try telling them to take you off their list and discontinue ringing you!