IMPORTANT NOTICE: 3G phone network shutdown

While most modern phones use 4G and 5G, some of us are still using a phone on the 3G network.

The 3G network, operated via Telstra and Optus, is being switched off on 28 October 2024. This means if you have a device that uses the 3G network, it will no longer work. That is, you will NOT be able to make emergency calls to 000, make other calls, send or receive messages or access the internet. This shutdown may also impact medical alert devices if they use the 3G Telstra or Optus networks.

Even if you don’t have a Telstra or Optus sim card, all Mobile Service Providers use one of these networks.

You must take action now to prepare for this.

If you don’t know if your phone uses the 3G network, Telstra and Optus customers can
text ‘3’ to ‘3498’ and the service will automatically respond with advice on whether or not your device is affected.

OPTUS is offering free phones to elderly and vulnerable customers with 3G phones.

The switch off will impact 3G and some 4G devices. Your service provider should contact you if your device will be impacted.

This video provides information

Or you can find out more:

If your device uses the Telstra network, here. 

If your device uses the Optus network, here.