Telstra and Optus delay 3G shutdown

Telstra and Optus have today announced that they will extend the closure of their 3G networks and conduct a public safety awareness campaign so all Australians know what action they need to take ahead of the shutdown. 

The planned 3G shutdown (announced in 2019) was to have occurred at the end of August but will now happen on October 28. 

Telstra customer communication over the last five years has included multiple letters, bill messages, SMS, advertising, and in some cases,  door knocking and sending free phones to people who need it most but there remains concerns that not everyone is ready for the transition to 4G and 5G. 

It is critical customers check their devices are compatible with the 4G network, particularly to ensure they are still able to call emergency services. 

It is also important for users of connected medical monitoring devices such as pacemakers, oxygen and cardio monitors, fall alarms and sensors, and EFTPOS and antennas, to check whether they rely on the 3G network by contacting the manufacturer or supplier. 

Telstra is committed to ensuring that 4G coverage will be available everywhere that the company offered 3G coverage. 

If you are unsure, visit 3G closure

find your nearest Telstra store, or phone 13 22 00.

Be aware after 28 October, if your device doesn't support VoLTE (voice Over LTE) emergency calling, you will not be able to make an emergency 000 call on the Telstra or Optus Mobile Networks. 

The message is, if you have been contacted by Telstra in recent months about this, your device is affected and you must act now to stay connected. 

You are assured you don't need to spend hundreds of dollars to update your phone, and there are assistance options.