3G Network Switch Off

Some of you might have seen the news that the 3G Mobile Phone network will be soon be turned off. I know that some people, though, are blissfully unaware of this.

Telstra is due to turn off 3G on August 31st 2024, Optus on 1st September 2024 and Vodafone have already switched off.

Most modern phones will happily continue to work in 4G and 5G and you will not be affected. However, there are a small number of phones that do not properly negotiate to 4G without the 3G network and they will cease to work properly without some changes. This could be a life or death situation if you are out on the trails and need to call 000!

To find out if your phone is one of these, this is the best method I have seen:

• Telstra - SMS ‘3’ to 3498 for an automatic response. This works for other networks that are on Telstra like AldiMobile.
• Optus - Call: 133 937

Of particular note to members of our club are other devices that might have mobile data SIMs in them that you have totally forgotten about!

For me - I was caught out by my vehicle GPS tracker that was in 3G mode. Some people also have these in their trailers and caravans. Also, hunters might have trail cameras and other devices that have mobile sims in them - so make sure you don't forget to check these too!

For more information on the changes - please check out this website which contains a lot of useful information about the changes.