• As of 28 October 2024, Australia will shut down its 3G network
  • This shutdown will leave 60,000 mobile phones unable to contact emergency services, along with potential impacts on medical devices and security systems.
  • Learn the implications of the impending 3G shutdown

As of 28 October 2024, 60,000 phones in Australia will no longer be able to contact emergency services due to the 3G network shutdown. However, the implications of this closure extend beyond mobile phones, impacting medical devices, security systems, and other essential technologies.

Both Telstra and Optus have confirmed that their 3G networks will officially be decommissioned on 28 October 2024, following a two-month delay from the original shutdown date.

Australians are strongly encouraged to verify whether their phones are compatible with 4G or 5G networks as soon as possible. To assist with this, users can text '3' to 3498, which will inform them if their phone requires an upgrade. 

Compare Broadband also has this handy list of phones impacted by the 3G shutdown to give you additional information.

Communications Minister Michelle Rowland revealed in an ABC interview that, prior to the extension, around 740,000 handheld devices needed upgrades. While that figure has now dropped to 60,000, there remains considerable work to ensure everyone is prepared.

Though some 4G phones may continue making regular calls after the shutdown, they will not be able to connect to emergency services by dialling Triple Zero after 28 October. 

If you know someone who could be affected, especially elderly individuals or neighbours, it’s important to help them check their devices immediately.

Check your tech

The Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association (AMTA) warns that the 3G shutdown will affect more than just mobile phones. Devices like smartwatches, tablets, personal emergency alarms, EFTPOS machines, and fire and security alarms may also be impacted.

AMTA's website explains that some early 4G phones don’t support voice calls over 4G, meaning they rely on the 3G network for calls. Once 3G is phased out, these phones won’t be able to make any calls. Additionally, some devices that can make normal 4G calls will still switch to 3G for emergency calls, which will no longer work after the 3G closure.

Previously, 3G provided better coverage for emergency Triple Zero (000) calls due to its lower frequency, similar to how AM radio reaches further than FM. But this advantage will disappear once 3G is fully shut down.

The impact of the 3G shutdown isn’t limited to phones. Many other technologies that rely on wireless communication could also fail if not upgraded. Devices like EFTPOS terminals, security alarms, elevator emergency phones, medical monitoring systems, and GPS trackers may stop functioning when 3G services are switched off.

If you rely on any devices that use a wireless connection, it’s essential to confirm whether they are 4G or 5G compatible and take necessary steps to upgrade them before the 3G shutdown occurs.

Need more information?

The best thing that you can do in preparation for the 3G shutdown is to call the team at Compare Broadband on 1300 764 000. We can talk you through your options for a new device and help you to get connected.