3G Shutdown: Keeping you connected

It’s about keeping you connected.

In case you hadn’t already heard, the complete shutdown of 3G in Australia is fast approaching, that means Optus customers with impacted devices are already receiving direct communications about updating their device.

As the rollout of 4G and 5G improves reliability, capacity and speed across Australia, developing these capabilities requires 3G technology to be retired. The 3G shutdown will not only affect mobile devices, but potentially other devices like tablets and dongles.

Customers may be using a device that is:

• Still reliant on 3G;
• A 4G device that uses 3G for emergency calls; or
• An overseas or grey market device that isn’t compatible with Australian 4G technology.

Based on that, we are continuing to contact impacted customers directly through SMS, emails and letters.

That’s why it’s so important for our customers to work with us on their options when they receive these messages – simply put, we don’t want any customers left without connection from 28 October, 2024.

So if you, or anyone you know, is impacted please contact us to discuss upgrading your device.

We are providing support through this change to all customers and especially additional support to our most vulnerable customers. 

You can easily check if your Optus mobile device is impacted by texting ‘3’ to ‘3498’ from the device you want to check. 

For those Optus customers who are impacted, you can call 1300 219 070 or visit your nearest Optus retail outlet to discuss your options. 

In a very small number of areas where 4G coverage is not yet available, rest assured, we will not be shutting off 3G until a replacement 4G service is available.

Finally, there are other 3G devices from different providers and companies that, for example, sell farming equipment, vending machines, medical devices, parking metres and more – but these customers must contact either the company which sold them the device or the manufacturer, even if they operate on the Optus network.  

I encourage any Optus customer interested in learning more about the 3G Shutdown to visit our dedicated website here - www.optus.com.au/3g