Telstra and Optus switch off 3G today: All the phones impacted
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Thousands of Australians with old phones will no longer be able to call or text because the major telcos have shut down their 3G networks.
In an effort to increase the speed, capabilities and reliability of their 4G and 5G system, TPG Telecom/Vodafone has disabled 3G.
Telstra and Optus will follow on Monday.
Federal Communications Minister Michelle Rowland has urged all Australians to check their technology and, if necessary, upgrade.
Telcos have been preparing for the shutdowns since 2019, but the official shutdown has been postponed twice over concerns about a certain type of phone – often bought abroad or second-hand – not being able to connect to triple zero on newer networks.
These handsets use 4G for regular calls and texts, but 3G for the emergency line, with the fear that many would not experience any problems until they tried calling the emergency line after the network closed.
“If you or someone you know has one of these 3G devices, take action now and contact your service provider,” Ms Rowland said.
“My department will continue to work with the telecoms companies throughout the switchover process to ensure this is done in a secure and effectively managed manner.”
To address the 60,000 affected phones in circulation, a new federal law will also come into effect on Monday, forcing telecom companies to disconnect voice and data services on these devices.
Telstra and Optus customers should ensure their device is not affected by the shutdown
Older phones will need to be upgraded as the country’s two largest telecoms shut down their 3G networks
Australians can find out if their phones are affected by texting ‘3’ to the number 3498.
The shutdown will also affect devices such as smart watches and medical alarms.
For five years, mobile service providers have been scrambling to advise affected customers, urging them to upgrade any technology that relies on 3G.
All telcos have offered handset replacement options, with some offering free devices to vulnerable members of the community.
Tasmania will be the first state to have its 3G network switched off, with the other parts of the country set to switch off by November 4.