The 3G Network Is Closing on the 28th October

The national 3G network is closing to boost the speed and reliability of the 4G and 5G networks.

Telstra and Optus will close their 3G network from 28 October 2024 -Vodafone closed in Jan

Impacted devices may include phones, smartwatches, tablets, in-home personal emergency alarms, EFTPOS terminals and fire and security alarms.

How do you find out if your device is affected - Check your mobile phone by texting “3” to the number ‘3498’

Some 4G devices will also be affected as some early 4G handsets don’t support 4G voice calling, which means they use the 3G network, and after the closure these devices will not be able to make a call.

There are also a number of devices that support normal 4G voice calls, but force emergency calls (000) to 3G, so these phone calls won’t be able to make an emergency call (000) after the closure.

To keep you safe, mobile phones must support Triple Zero (000) in the event of an emergency. This is a requirement for all phones sold in Australia. Older 3G phones, as well as some newer 4G/5G phones (that have been purchased overseas or from a retailer selling imported phones), do not meet these standards, once 3G closes. 

If you have one of these phones, it means you won’t be able to call Triple Zero (000) in the event of an emergency after the 3G networks close. 

Again check your mobile by texting 3 to the number 3498