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Gippslanders need to verify device compatibility to avoid disruptions as Telstra 3G network shutdown set for August 2024

Gippsland East Nationals' Tim Bull advises residents to check device compatibility ahead of Telstra's August 3G network shutdown. Prepare for potential disruptions; assist vulnerable neighbours.

By news@gippsland - 13th May 2024 - Back to News

Nationals State Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, is encouraging residents to check if their devices will still work, as Telstra prepares to shut down its 3G network in August this year. Telstra was initially scheduled to close its 3G network and migrate over to 4G coverage at the end of June 2024, however, it has extended the network closure by two months to allow households extra time to prepare for the transition.

Gippsland East Nationals' Tim Bull advises checking device compatibility ahead of Telstra's August 3G network shutdown, extended to accommodate preparations

Prepare for 3G shutdown

Mr Bull said, "If you currently have 3G only devices, they will no longer work after the August deadline. This could impact your phone, tablet, medical devices, security systems, and more, so it is important that you are prepared beforehand."

"It may also impact your ability to make emergency calls on older mobile phones, so I urge East Gippsland residents to make sure their devices are compatible before the migration occurs. It is also important to check up on elderly family and neighbours, who may need assistance with accessing this information," he said.

Telstra 3G shutdown

If you're a Telstra customer, or if you have a device that uses Telstra's mobile network, you can find out if your mobile phone is impacted by texting '3' to 3498. Telstra will then respond to let you know the status of the device you're messaging from, and whether you need to take any action.

If you're using a device to monitor health such as medical alarms, security, or other remote safety situations, and they're currently using the 3G 2100 MHz layer, they'll stop working as the network is closed. Information regarding the device's compatibility with the new signal can be found on accompanying paperwork from the manufacturer, or by contacting the provider.

3G signal concerns

Mr Bull said there are a number of areas within the electorate that access the 3G signal exclusively and has raised these concerns with Telstra directly about future connectivity in these regions. "Telstra has committed to providing 4G coverage to around 95% of the areas that currently receive 3G before the August closure."

"However I've requested that in bush fire prone areas like East Gippsland this needs to be 100% of areas," Mr Bull said. More information can be found at: 3G closure - what do I need to know? - Telstra.

Pictures from 9 News Australia YouTube channel.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com