SENATE INQUIRY INTO IMPACT OF 3G NETWORK SHUTDOWN

The looming shutdown of the 3G mobile network has raised concerns about potential impacts on access to Triple Zero and emergency services, Federal Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien said today.

“There are concerns that some Wide Bay residents will be unable to call Tripe Zero once the 3G network shuts down later this year, principally in those areas where there is no 4G coverage available,” Mr O’Brien said.

“We also have residents who rely on 3G medical devices and businesses with equipment that requires 3G service, so there is some concern about the state of readiness for the proposed closure of Telstra’s 3G network at the end of June 2024 .”

The Senate Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport Committee has begun an inquiry into the shutdown of the 3G mobile network and telecommunications services and will be looking into the potential impacts this closure might have on regional Australia.

“I encourage Wide Bay residents who are concerned about their access to mobile and telecommunications services after the 3G closure, to have their say and make a written submission to the Senate Inquiry before the end of May,” Mr O’Brien said.

The Senate Inquiry will be open for public submissions until 31 May 2024, with the report due for completion by the end of November 2024.

Further information about the Senate Inquiry and how to make a submission is available at www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/Rural_and_Regional_Affairs_and_Transport/3GNetworkShutdown.

Telstra has released a 3G SMS Checker Tool which will provide advice about whether devices need to be upgraded to be able to access the 4G and 5G networks.

The Checker Tool can be accessed via SMS by texting the number ‘3’ to number ‘3498’ or ‘3GXT’ which corresponds to the letters on your phone’s dialling keypad, to receive almost instant advice on your device. Further information about the 3G closure is available at www.telstra.com/3Gclosure.