3g shudown Image 3g shudown Image

New rules require blocking of mobile phones that can't make emergency service calls

On 24 October 2024, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) updated regulations relating to phones that can't make emergency calls after 3G shutdown, meaning they aren't permitted to access mobile networks and therefore can no longer make/receive calls, send/receive SMS & MMS, or access mobile data.

To comply with these rules, network providers blocked access to any mobile phone that has been identified as not being able to make calls to emergency services when the 3G network shut down on 28 October 2024.

Why did this happen?

What do I need to do?

If you're using a mobile phone that's impacted by network updates, it's essential to replace it with a 4G VoLTE version that makes emergency calls over 4G. If you have a 3G non-calling device you will need to replace it with a 4G version. As the shutdown has already completed it's best to take action ASAP in order to avoid further disruptions.

We recommend updating affected devices immediately

What devices are affected?

Where can I get a compatible device?

Outright devices, including low-cost mobile phones are available from many retailers, both online and in store. Replacement phones should be unlocked, support 4G VoLTE for all calls,including to emergency services. All 4G devices (including non-calling), should be compatible withALDImobile's network bands and frequencies, particularly 4G Band 28

Act now, 3G has already shut down!

For general information on 3G shutdown and to understand how this impacts other device types visitaldimobile.com.au/3g.

3G emergency call FAQs

Why do the new emergency calling rules mean some devices were blocked?

Background
On 24 October 2024, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) issued the Telecommunications (Emergency Call Service) Amendment Determination 2024 (No. 1). This regulation required mobile network providers to block phones that cannot make emergency calls over 4G VoLTE after the 3G shutdown. This moves beyond previous network shutdown arrangements to make this a legal requirement, ensuring all connected mobile phones can access emergency services for public safety reasons.

Network changes
The 3G network shutdown commenced on 28 October 2024. From this date, irrespective of regular call or data capability, the new ACMA amendment required that all mobile phones must be able to make emergency calls over 4G VoLTE to connect, and maintain connection with the network. This capability is a hardware feature of the device - it cannot be added through settings or updates.

Device requirements
Mobile phones must support 4G VoLTE for all calls, and permit emergency calling over 4G.

Non-calling devices (like tablets or IoT sensors) only need 4G data compatibility as they are not intended to primarily be calling devices.

For existing customers
If your current mobile phone is changed or becomes unable to make emergency calls over 4G VoLTE at the hardware level:

  • Device compatibility is checked automatically and ongoing by the network
  • Incompatible phones will not be allowed to connect
  • The service itself is unaffected and can be restored by switching to a compatible device

For new services
When activating a new service:

  • Device compatibility will be checked at the network level upon connection
  • Incompatible phones won't be allowed to connect
  • The service itself is unaffected and can be activated by using a compatible device

Taking action

  • Text '3G' to 3498 to check currently connected device status
  • To validate whether a device has been blocked visit the Telstra Wholesale blocked device checker and enter your device IMEI 
  • If affected, upgrade to a 4G VoLTE capable device that makes emergency calls over 4G
  • Outright devices, including low-cost mobile phones are available from many retailers, both online and in store

After 28 October 2024

If you change devices on an existing service or attempt to activate a new service and are unable to connect to the network, then try another device as it is possible the device you are attempting to use is blocked due to not supporting emergency calls over 4G. 

Remember: This is a regulatory requirement affecting all mobile providers. After 28 October 2024, incompatible phones were blocked from connecting to mobile network - services are not impacted and the SIM will connect as soon as it is placed into a compatible device.

How are devices that can't make 4G emergency calls blocked after 3G shutdown

My device stopped working when 3G shut down. What now?

Was my device affected by the 3G shutdown? Do I need to upgrade it?

How does the 3G shutdown affect my 3G-only device?

My device Is 4G, but I received a notification about the 3G closure. Am I impacted?

My device can't make Emergency 000 calls over 4G (VoLTE). Do I need an upgrade?

Will my device be able to call emergency services (000) after the 3G shutdown?

What are ALDI Mobile's network bands and frequencies?

How do I ensure that my new device is 4G ready?

3G Shutdown Device Checker SMS Tool

Important information about the 3G Shutdown

The Telstra Wholesale Mobile Network provides 4G coverage to most Australians, with 5G also available in many locations. Check your area using our coverage map.

Speeds may vary due to factors such as location, device capabilities, distance from the base station, local conditions, concurrent users, hardware and software configuration and download/upload destination. Also note that speed caps apply.

To access 5G, you’ll need a 5G compatible device, a 5G capable plan, and be in the Telstra Wholesale 5G coverage area. 5G is only available in selected areas and with selected plans. View the 5G coverage map to see where 5G is available and when it will be coming to your area.

Telstra's 3G network will be discontinued on 28 October 2024. After this date, you will need a 4G mobile phone with VoLTE calling capability, or a non-calling device with 4G on supported bands to stay connected to our network. The 3G Device Checker SMS tool (text '3G' to 3498) is provided to help identify if your device will be affected by the 3G shutdown. Please note that the tool uses recent network data, which will be refreshed regularly. However, we do not represent that the data is accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

Disclaimer: The 3G Device Checker tool enables end users to text 3498. This service is restricted to two-way messaging within our mobile network. Users not on our network cannot send messages or voice traffic to 3489, where 3489 is a private number in accordance with Chapter 4, ss.43-45 of the Telecommunications Numbering Plan, available at https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2015L00319/latest/text.