3G Networks Closure
The national 3G network is closing to boost the speed and reliability of the 4G and 5G networks.
- Optus have commenced closure of their 3G network as of 28 October 2024. Read more here.
- Telstra have now completed closure of their 3G network. 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.
Buyer’s Guide
If your mobile phone is affected, and you need to purchase a new device, we recommend following our Buyer’s Guide to ensure the device you purchase will continue to work after the networks closures are complete. Read more.
Watch our informational video
Get in touch with your service provider to check your device
While service providers are advising customers through a variety of communications forms, including text, email and post, it is important to reach out to your service provider and check if you need to take any action.
Search for information from your service provider here.
Financial Hardship
If you are in a vulnerable circumstance or experiencing financial hardship, we encourage you to contact your service provider to discuss options. Search for information from your service provider here.
Further Information
Visit the Department of Infrastructure, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts 3G network switch off website or the ACMA’s 3G network switch off website for further advice. Specific information from the leading service providers is available here:
Telstra
www.telstra.com.au/support/mobiles-devices/3g-closure
13 22 00
Optus
www.optus.com.au/3g
133 937
Vodafone/TPG Telecom
3G Network Closure FAQ | TPG Support
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Australia’s 3G networks closing?
As more advanced 4G and 5G network services become widespread, mobile carriers around the world are closing their 3G networks.
4G and 5G networks are more efficient at delivering greater speed and capacity, which means better service and experience.
Similar network closures have happened before. A few years ago, all Australian mobile providers switched off their 2G networks when they upgraded to 4G.
Will I be left without Triple Zero access?
If your device is not upgraded to a 4G or 5G network compatible device, it will mean that once Australia’s 3G networks are fully inactive by late 2024, you will no longer be able to make emergency calls to 000.
It’s important that you check with your device manufacturer or service provider to confirm if you will be impacted before these network closures.
If 3G coverage is available from another operator, then emergency calls may be able to be made, however, this isn’t guaranteed. Do not call 000 to test your device. Once your network provider has closed their 3G network, do not attempt to test your device by calling emergency services. If you have an affected phone, the call will go through until all 3G networks are closed, blocking access to real emergency callers, and endangering lives.
Some devices can connect to 4G/5G networks but depend on 3G for Triple Zero calls. These devices won’t be able to make calls to Triple Zero (000) from 28 October and may stop working entirely. Check your mobile device here.
I am not with one of the major service providers. What network am I on?
Please see a full list of mobile service providers and their network operators here.
Will the 3G network closures only affect phones? What other devices will be affected?
Other affected devices can include smartwatches, wearables, and IoT devices such as EFTPOS terminals, industrial routers, scanners, security monitoring devices, telematics, asset tracking tools, environment monitoring tools, security cameras, medical alarms, personal emergency response solutions, and home security alarms/devices.
Contact your device manufacturer to confirm if your devices will be affected.
What do I need to do if I have an affected device?
You will need to upgrade your device. Contact your device manufacturer and service provider for more information.
I received an SMS/email from my service provider. Should I trust it?
Service providers are contacting affected customers individually. However, if you receive a message and are unsure it is best to contact your service provider directly via the contact details on their webpage to check whether your device may be affected.
When will the 3G networks close?
TPG Telecom/Vodafone has already switched off its 3G mobile network services as of January 2024. Read more here.
Telstra has now switched off its 3G network, which commenced from 28 October 2024. Read more here.
Optus has commenced closure of its 3G network as of 28 October 2024. Read more here.
Once your network provider has closed their 3G network, do not attempt to test your device by calling emergency services. If you have an affected phone, the call will go through until all 3G networks are closed, blocking access to real emergency callers, and endangering lives.
Important information for mobile customers is available here:
Understanding VoLTE and Emergency Calls over 4G
Understanding VoLTE and Emergency Calls for International Roaming
What should I do with my old 3G device?
If you’re wondering what to do with your old 3G phone, consider recycling it with the official mobile phone recycling program of the telecommunications industry, MobileMuster.