What does this mean and why is it happening?
Australia is in the process of phasing out 3G mobile networks as part of its transition to more advanced 4G and 5G technologies. The switch-off involves the shutdown of older cellular networks, which have been in service since the early 2000s, in favour of faster and more efficient networks.Devices that may use the 3G network include (but are not limited to):
- 3G-only SIM cards, mobile phones, tablets and laptops
- 4G-enabled devices that do not have VoLTE (Voice over LTE) capability
- 4G-enabled devices that use 3G to force emergency calls through
- Antennas and wireless-to-landline links
- Autonomous farming robots
- Drones and other UAVs
- EFTPOS terminals and other finance systems
- GPS systems in machinery or vehicle fleets
- Internet of Things (IoT) devices and other devices within closed networks
- Irrigation systems
- Livestock monitoring devices
- Medical alarms, and other medical devices
- Mobile broadband modems and Wi-Fi signal repeaters
- Power generators, solar panels, smart meters for water/gas/electricity, and energy storage systems
- Second-hand or refurbished phones, or phones purchased overseas
- Smart fencing and/or gate control systems
- Smart watches and other wearables
- Weather stations, soil/water sensors and other on-farm data collection equipment
- Wired or remote security cameras, closed network security systems and alarms.
Any of the above devices which do not have 4G/5G compatibility will no longer work after the 3G network is switched off.
When will the 3G networks be switched off?
Telstra and Optus have extended their switch off date – both carriers will now switch off their 3G networks from Monday, 28 October 2024. Upgrading to 4G/5G capable devices before this date is essential to ensure continued access to data, voice calls, SMS/text messaging, and emergency services.
Will I be able to call Triple Zero (000) and access emergency services?
If you don’t upgrade your 3G-only mobile device before Monday, 28 October 2024, you will not be able to call Triple Zero (000) in the event of an emergency. Do not call Triple Zero (000) to test your device – this won’t help you work out whether your device is affected and may stop others accessing life-saving support.
What do I need to do to prepare for the shutdown?
- Find out what network your mobile service provider uses if you are not a direct customer of Telstra or Optus.
- Check if your current communication devices support 4G/5G. To test whether or not your device will be affected, you can:
- Even if your communication device is 4G/5G capable, check if it has VoLTE (Voice over LTE) capability.
- Follow the same process for your other devices that connect to a mobile network. Contact the manufacturer of a device as soon as possible if you are unsure whether or not it will continue working after the shutdown.
Where can I find more information?
Contact the organisation listed below or your communications provider for any further questions you may have. Both Telstra and Optus are actively reaching out to customers who may be affected via SMS, email, call, letter, or you may hear a recorded message play before you make an outbound call. Be aware of scams and only contact your mobile provider directly using trusted information.
Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association (AMTA)
Thanks to AgriFutures Australia info@agrifutures.com.au for this article.
www.agrifutures.com.au |
