As part of the upcoming 3G network closure, customers who have been using Next Gen Wireless Link (NGWL) for their broadband and home phone connection will need to upgrade to a newer technology solution. These solutions are either 4G fixed wireless or a satellite connection.

Telstra has been contacting impacted customers. However, it is highly recommended if you have not spoken with Telstra about your NGWL connection, you call the Telstra migration team immediately and place an order before 31 August. Time is running out before the 3G changes and NGWL migration take place from 28 October 2024.

This fact sheet answers some common questions about the changes.

Regardless of your provider, here are some clear and easy steps to ensure your devices are ready for the network transition:

1. Inventory Check:
   • • Review all your mobile phones and broadband devices.

    

2. Compatibility Check:
   • • Ensure your device supports 4G VoLTE for voice calls.

    

3. If Your Device is Not 4G or 5G Capable:
   • Contact your device supplier to discuss solutions.
   • Identify the number and type of devices you need to replace.
   • Consider your future connectivity needs:
     • • Do you need reliable connectivity for emergencies?
       • Are you running a business that relies on EFTPOS systems, remote operations, or a large device network?

      

4. Plan Your Transition:
   • Work with your support team to establish a suitable timeline for transitioning all your devices to 4G and 5G networks.
   • Determine if you need to upgrade your device, adjust settings, or purchase a new device outright.

The Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association (AMTA) has launched a new website to help Australians prepare for the 3G network closures. The site provides easy-to-understand information, clear steps on where to seek help, and guidance on upgrading impacted mobile phones, tablets, or smartwatches.

Telstra has extended their 3G network shutdown deadline to commence from 28 October 2024.

Find out more about what these changes mean for you here.

Important Updates from Telstra:

1. Outgoing Call Message:
   • • Telstra is playing a 10-second message before all outgoing calls on 3G impacted devices. This message cannot be removed until the service is updated. It won’t play for triple zero calls. More information is available here.

    

2. Check Your Device Compatibility:
   • • Telstra has created an easy SMS check tool. Text ‘3’ to 3498 to confirm if your device is 4G compatible. You will receive a text back with your compatibility status and next steps.
     • This SMS checker is also available for customers using telcos that access the Telstra network. Not sure which network your provider uses? Check it on the AMTA’s 3G Closure site.

    

3. Telstra GO Repeaters:
   • • Telstra GO Repeaters operate on both 3G and 4G and will not be impacted by the 3G closure. However, some repeaters may have been manually switched to 3G only. Telstra has prepared easy-to-follow instructions to help you check this.

    

4. Additional Resources:
   • Telstra provides several fact sheets and other resources regarding the transition. Access these resources here.

Telstra also have a number of fact sheets and other resources available regarding the transition:

• • Watch this short video explaining Telstra’s 3G closure
  • What you need to know when migrating your NGWL service
  • Telstra fact sheet – 3G to 4G compatibility 
  • Signal bars, improved performance and coverage equivalence
  • Your questions answered
  • Goodbye 3G. Hello to a better network experience.
  • How do I enable VoLTE on my mobile phone? 
  • Telstra-m2m-certified-devices-modules.pdf
  • Check if your Telstra
    GO Repeater is configured
    to boost 4G signal

Optus have also extended their shutdown to occur from 28 October 2024. Optus will be switching off their 3G technology and repurposing it to boost the capacity, speed, and reliability of their 4G network and rollout 5G to even more Australians.

Find out more about what these changes mean for you here.

Next steps:

• Optus will be reaching out to customers who we believe are impacted by these changes.
• You can also check whether your mobile phone is impacted at any time by texting the number ‘3’ to ‘3498’.

As the 3G network has now switched off, if you’re a Vodafone customer or business reliant on the 3G network, it’s crucial to upgrade to a device compatible with 4G or 5G networks. Find out more about these changes and what you should do here.