Why Telstra and these defensive ASX dividend shares could be top buys

These shares could be strong picks for Aussies looking for an income boost.

| More on:

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Are you in the market for some new additions to your income portfolio?

If you are, it could be worth considering the three ASX dividend shares in this article.

Here's what you need to know about them:

A bland looking man in a brown suit opens his jacket to reveal a red and gold superhero dollar symbol on his chest.

Image source: Getty Images

Amcor plc (ASX: AMC)

The first ASX dividend share to look at is Amcor. It is a global packaging business that serves customers across food, beverage, healthcare, personal care, and other consumer categories.

Its products may not grab headlines, but they sit inside supply chains that consumers interact with every day. From medicine packaging to food containers and household products, Amcor plays a quiet but important role in getting essential goods onto shelves safely and efficiently.

That gives the business a defensive quality. Demand can still move with economic conditions and customer volumes, but packaging tied to everyday products is less exposed than many discretionary categories.

Amcor shares are forecast to provide dividend yields around 7% in both FY 2026 and FY 2027.

Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)

Another ASX dividend share that could be worth a look in June is Telstra.

Its position in Australian telecommunications gives Telstra a strong base for income investors. Its mobile network remains a major competitive advantage, particularly as households and businesses continue using more data.

Connectivity has become essential infrastructure. People may cut back on travel, entertainment, or big-ticket purchases when budgets are tight, but phone and internet services are much harder to live without.

That defensive demand is a key reason Telstra remains popular with dividend investors. The company also has a clearer structure than it did in the past, with management focused on mobile, network quality, enterprise services, and cost control.

Telstra shares are forecast to offer dividend yields around 4.2% this year and next.

Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW)

A third ASX dividend share for income investors to consider is Woolworths.

It is of course one of Australia's most important consumer businesses. Its supermarkets are used by millions of shoppers each week, giving the company a central role in household spending.

The grocery sector is not without challenges. Competition can be intense, costs are rising, and regulatory scrutiny remains a risk.

Even so, Woolworths has advantages that are difficult to replicate. Its store network, supply chain, digital capabilities, loyalty program, and brand recognition give it a strong position in a market where scale matters. This makes Woolworths a useful defensive income option.

Woolworths shares are expected to offer dividend yields of 2.8% and 3.2% in FY 2026 and FY 2027, respectively.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Woolworths Group. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Amcor Plc, Telstra Group, and Woolworths Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Dividend Investing

Friend enjoying a meal at a restaurant, symbolising passive income.
Dividend Investing

I'd buy 4,068 shares of this ASX stock to aim for $200 a month of passive income

This business offers investors pleasing and resilient payouts.

Read more »

Man holding out Australian dollar notes, symbolising dividends.
Dividend Investing

How much do I need in my superannuation to earn an annual $60,000 passive income?

Earning a consistent passive income off your superannuation is easier than you'd think.

Read more »

Hand holding Australian dollar (AUD) bills, symbolising ex dividend day. Passive income.
Dividend Investing

Brokers name 2 ASX dividend shares to buy with 4% to 7% yields

Attractive dividend yields are forecast from these shares.

Read more »

Australian dollar notes in the pocket of a man's jeans, symbolising dividends.
Dividend Investing

This ASX dividend stock could pay me $1,000 this year. Here's how many shares I'd need

The yield on this stock might surprise you.

Read more »

Two people lazing in deck chairs on a beautiful sandy beach throw their hands up in the air.
Dividend Investing

3 ASX dividend shares I'd buy for passive income right now

Which ASX dividend shares should I include in my portfolio?

Read more »

Person handing out $100 notes, symbolising ex-dividend date.
Best Shares

1 ASX dividend stock down 18% I'd buy today!

This ASX dividend stock crashed through 2022 to 2025. But it looks like it has turned a corner this year.

Read more »

Australian dollar notes in the pocket of a man's jeans, symbolising dividends.
Dividend Investing

Is this beaten-down ASX software stock hiding a dividend winner?

A growing global business may be hiding behind the market’s pessimism.

Read more »

A disabled senior man in wheelchair playing with a pet dog at home.
Dividend Investing

How to invest $15,000 for passive income in retirement

These investments offer significant and reliable passive income.

Read more »