Six weeks until 3G shuts down

Jul 24, 2024

With only six weeks remaining, it is important that 3G phone users act now. Photo by Getty Images Photo by Getty Images

Australians with older phones still connected to 3G networks are being urged to act now to avoid being cut off from emergency calls.

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There are just six weeks until Telstra and Optus begin to shut down their national 3G networks.

Once the networks are shut down, all 3G devices and some older 4G models won’t be able to make emergency calls to 000 on any Australian network.

Australia has used 3G networks since the early 2000s, but now most mobile usage is on faster 4G and 5G networks.

The 3G closures will allow operators to reallocate the spectrum and enhance 4G and 5G experiences nationwide.

Telstra will close its 3G network on August 31, and Optus will start its 3G closure in September.

Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association chief executive Louise Hyland stressed the need to act now, with only six weeks remaining, and highlighted the importance of checking devices using resources available.

“There are also certain 4G devices that will not be able to make emergency calls to 000 after all 3G networks close,” she said.

“Whether it’s your day-to-day mobile or one you keep in the drawer for an emergency, we encourage you to check all of your devices to ensure they will be supported once Australia’s 3G networks are switched off.”

You can check your device by texting ‘3’ to 3498, or by visiting ‘check my device’ at 3Gclosure.com.au.

You can also contact your service provider for more information, or to find a suitable upgrade option.

AMTA recommends checking new devices’ connectability before purchase, which can be done by asking the seller for the IMEI number of the device and using the ‘check my device’ website.

Buyers are also warned to be careful buying devices from retailers that sell devices made for other markets, otherwise known as ‘grey-market devices’.

These devices may not support emergency calls after 3G networks close, as they might not support all Australian mobile frequency bands, potentially including 4G and 5G emergency calling.

AMTA recommends affected or old devices be properly disposed of through recycling scheme MobileMuster.

For more information, visit 3Gclosure.com.au or contact your mobile network operator.