3G shutdown delayed by Telstra, Optus: Why and what should we all do now?
Telstra and Optus have pushed their 3G shutdown date by almost two months to 28 October 2024.
Anyone with a 3G-reliant device—whether it's a handset, medical monitor, EFTPOS machine, or anything else—needs to upgrade to 4G or 5G by 28 October 2024.
Telstra and Optus were meant to shut down their 3G network by 31 August and the beginning of September respectively.
They're now using this extra time for one final push to raise awareness and ensure public safety, particularly for those still relying on 3G for connectivity.
This is crucial for emergencies when you need to access triple zero services.
Although Vodafone shut down its 3G network in December 2023, some customers may still need to upgrade their devices to ensure they can make triple zero emergency calls, as these can be made over any network.
What can I do to help vulnerable Aussies prep for the 3G shutdown? Or how do I know if I'm impacted?
- Spread the word. If you know someone who might be impacted, chat with them about their options.
- You can Check My Device feature at www.3Gclosure.com.au to see if your phone needs to be upgraded.
- The site is available to all Australians, on any mobile network and is available in 11 different languages including Arabic, Greek, Hindi and Mandarin.
- Or, you can send '3' to '3498' and the response will let you know if you need to take action.
"We have been communicating with customers about the need to prepare and make the move for almost five years," Telstra CEO Vicki Brady said in a media release.
This has included multiple letters, bill messages, SMS, public awareness campaigns, advertising - even door-knocking and sending free phones to people in vulnerable circumstances and our support for customers won't end the day the network closes.
In the same media release, Optus interim CEO, Michael Venter said: "Adding to our extensive direct communications and marketing efforts to date, we are joining Telstra to launch a final public awareness campaign to really drive home the safety message and get the final group of customers to act."
We all need to do more before the 3G network is officially shut down
Australia's peak communications consumer body, ACCAN, has found that up to 77,000 mobile phone users will not be able to call triple zero emergency services when the nation's 3G networks are switched off.
It also estimates that approximately 200,000 medical alert devices rely on Australia's 3G mobile network.
That's why Telstra and Optus's last push to raise public awareness is so important.
"Our primary concern is that public safety will be impacted by the shutdown of 3G networks," said ACCAN CEO Carol Bennett in a statement.
ACCAN is a strong supporter of the 3G closure. We are very aware of the benefits that will flow from increased 4G/5G capacity. However, we need reassurance that those who are reliant on 3G medical devices, low-income and vulnerable consumers, as well as farms and businesses are not exposed to harm or left behind.
"Device manufacturers beyond the mobile phone sector need to step up to ensure that all 3G consumers are aware of the imminent disconnection of critical devices including medical alarms."
We have a detailed guide on the 3G network shutdown that you can bookmark and also pass around to friends and family.
why shut down the 3G network ?
the 3G and 4G network is reliable and the 5G is unreliable and most of the time the connection breaks up with that useless 5G rubbish, SO WHY INSIST ON HAVING IT FOR THE PHONE?