From 12.01am on Monday 28th October 2024, Telstra will begin closing its 3G network and customers with devices that rely on 3G for Emergency Calls (4G data, 3G Voice, or VoLTE capable but require 3G for Triple Zero) will be blocked from accessing Telstra’s network and won’t have access to voice or data services until they upgrade to a new handset.
This device blocking complies with a new law that requires network providers to block mobile phones that won’t be able to call Triple Zero (000) after the 3G closure forcing those users to transfer or upgrade to a compatible device.
Tasmania will be the first state to have its 3G network closed, followed by the rest of Australia with the transition set to be completed by Monday 4 November.
Telstra first announced the closure five years ago and has communicated directly with customers, as well as running a public awareness campaign with Optus and AMTA, to advise any customers remaining on 3G to act now and upgrade their device.
The Telstra Mobile Network is Australia’s largest, with 4G reaching 99.7 per cent of the Australian population and 5G to over 89 per cent, providing a more reliable coverage experience in more places across Australia. This will continue to grow as it repurposes the 3G spectrum to further increase overall network capacity and improve service quality. Telstra urges customers to check their tech by SMSing 3 to 3498 and take necessary actions ahead of the planned closure.
