3G Network Closing October 28 2024

Image and text source: https://amta.org.au/3g-closure/

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

Telstra will close their 3G network from 28 October 2024. Read more here.

Optus will close their 3G network from 28 October 2024. Read more here.

TPG Telecom/Vodafone has already closed their 3G mobile network as of January 2024. Read more here.

Devices that depend on the 3G network won’t work when it’s gone.

Impacted devices may include phones, smartwatches, tablets, in-home personal emergency alarms, EFTPOS terminals and fire and security alarms. You can view a list of impacted devices in our FAQs.

Check your tech and act, so you stay safe and connected.

– Check your mobile phone by texting “3” to the number ‘3498’ or by entering your IMEI into the ‘Check My Device’ tool here.

For all other devices, contact your service provider here.

Some 4G devices will be affected

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. Learn more.

Keeping you safe in an emergency 

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. 

Other devices, such as tablets, smartwatches, in-home personal emergency alarms, EFTPOS terminals and fire and security alarms, that depend on 3G for voice calls will also be unable to make Triple Zero (000) calls. If you have one of these devices it may not work properly after the 3G shutdown.  Learn more.