Telstra and Optus Postpone 3G Network Shutdown to October

ED: It pays to check now and update where necessary.

Telstra and Optus have postponed their 3G network shutdowns to the end of October, following a parliamentary inquiry urging a delay. Telstra’s shutdown was initially set for August 31, while Optus planned to end 3G service in September. Both companies now plan to begin the shutdown on October 28.

The delay comes after a Senate inquiry highlighted that many devices still rely on 3G, including critical medical equipment, fire alarms, EFTPOS machines, and infrastructure systems. The inquiry warned that without a delay, the government might prohibit the shutdown until 4G coverage is assured to be on par with 3G.

Both telecom companies are using the additional time to increase public awareness, with a focus on getting customers to upgrade affected devices. Optus had previously estimated that over 100,000 customers might not act before the original shutdown dates, risking loss of service. The inquiry identified around 300,000 devices that could be impacted, particularly older phones that rely on 3G for emergency calls.

To ease the transition, Telstra has given away over 12,000 phones, and Optus has distributed around 20,000, also offering a $400 credit to postpaid customers to encourage upgrades. Despite these efforts, the companies acknowledged that some users might only act when the network actually shuts down.