Up to 150,000 Australians could be left without access to vital services such as triple zero (000) emergency calls, online banking, and telehealth when telcos shut down their 3G networks in the coming months, Optus has warned. This concern was brought to light during a Senate inquiry where executives from Optus, Telstra, and TPG answered questions about the upcoming 3G shutdown.

The number of people using 3G-only handsets has dropped significantly—from nearly 750,000 in March to fewer than 150,000 now—but Optus admitted that some customers would inevitably be affected. “We’ve made strides in creating awareness and removing barriers for customers, but we have to accept that some will still be impacted,” explained Harvey Wright, Optus’ Head of New Products. “It’s just human nature. We’re aiming to minimize this, but up to 150,000 customers might still be affected.”

Meanwhile, Telstra did not provide specific estimates but shared similar concerns. “We know some customers won’t take action, even though we’re doing everything we can to encourage them,” said Justine Rowe, a Telstra executive. “We’re striving to get as close to zero as possible, but it’s unlikely to be completely zero.”

Both networks are urging customers to verify if their devices will be affected and to replace those dependent on 3G. They have been offering free handsets to customers in hardship or vulnerable situations. Anyone on any network can text “3” to 3498 to check if their phone will be affected by the 3G shutdown.

As the shutdown date approaches, Optus and Telstra have intensified efforts to inform their customers. They are using various channels including websites, customer service, and collaborations with community organizations to reach as many people as possible, especially those who might not be aware of the upcoming changes.

The Australian government is also involved in this transition, working closely with telecom companies to ensure minimal disruption and maintain access to essential services. They have been running awareness campaigns to inform the public about what they need to do to stay connected.

This 3G shutdown is a significant step towards modernizing Australia’s telecommunications infrastructure, paving the way for advanced technologies like 5G. However, it’s crucial that the transition is managed carefully to ensure that everyone, especially those relying on critical services, remains connected.

Up to 150,000 Australians could be left without access to vital services such as triple zero (000) emergency calls, online banking, and telehealth when telcos shut down their 3G networks in the coming months, Optus has warned. This concern was brought to light during a Senate inquiry where executives from Optus, Telstra, and TPG answered questions about the upcoming 3G shutdown.

The number of people using 3G-only handsets has dropped significantly—from nearly 750,000 in March to fewer than 150,000 now—but Optus admitted that some customers would inevitably be affected. “We’ve made strides in creating awareness and removing barriers for customers, but we have to accept that some will still be impacted,” explained Harvey Wright, Optus’ Head of New Products. “It’s just human nature. We’re aiming to minimize this, but up to 150,000 customers might still be affected.”

Meanwhile, Telstra did not provide specific estimates but shared similar concerns. “We know some customers won’t take action, even though we’re doing everything we can to encourage them,” said Justine Rowe, a Telstra executive. “We’re striving to get as close to zero as possible, but it’s unlikely to be completely zero.”

Both networks are urging customers to verify if their devices will be affected and to replace those dependent on 3G. They have been offering free handsets to customers in hardship or vulnerable situations. Anyone on any network can text “3” to 3498 to check if their phone will be affected by the 3G shutdown.

As the shutdown date approaches, Optus and Telstra have intensified efforts to inform their customers. They are using various channels including websites, customer service, and collaborations with community organizations to reach as many people as possible, especially those who might not be aware of the upcoming changes.

The Australian government is also involved in this transition, working closely with telecom companies to ensure minimal disruption and maintain access to essential services. They have been running awareness campaigns to inform the public about what they need to do to stay connected.

This 3G shutdown is a significant step towards modernizing Australia’s telecommunications infrastructure, paving the way for advanced technologies like 5G. However, it’s crucial that the transition is managed carefully to ensure that everyone, especially those relying on critical services, remains connected.