3G network shutdown & emergency calls

The Telstra Wholesale Mobile Network discontinued 3G services on 28 October 2024.

This page provides information about new rules that mean devices that can't make Emergency 000 calls over 4G VoLTE, have been blocked.

3G shutdown

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.

How will I know if I am impacted?

If you have received an email or SMS advising a mobile phone on your service can't make Emergency 000 calls over 4G VoLTE linking to this page, then it's highly likely that the device has been affected. This applies unless the connected mobile phone has changed recently, as different devices have varying capabilities and each should be checked separately.

If your device has been impacted it will no longer be able to connect to the network and a hardware upgrade is needed.

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.

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We recommend updating affected devices immediately

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 with ALDImobile'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 visit aldimobile.com.au/3g.

3G emergency call FAQs

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.

From 28 October 2024, new regulations required mobile networks to block devices that cannot make emergency calls over 4G VoLTE. Here's what you need to know about how this works.

Understanding device identification
Every mobile device has a unique IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number. The first 8 digits of this number form the TAC (Type Allocation Code), which identifies not just the make and model, but the specific variant of your device.

Why variants matter
The same phone model might have different versions for different markets. For example:

  • An Australian iPhone variant may support local 4G emergency calling
  • The same model from another market might not
  • Each variant has its own unique TAC
  • Network compatibility varies between variants

The blocking process
When your device tries to connect to the network, it sends its IMEI. Network providers (in ALDImobile's case this is the Telstra Wholesale network) maintain a list of TACs that identifies devices unable to make emergency calls over 4G. If your device's TAC is on this list, it will be blocked immediately. ALDImobile do not control this list and are not able to add or remove TACs from it.

What happens when blocked

  • Your device will display "no service"
  • No calls, texts, or data will work
  • The device cannot be unblocked
  • Moving your SIM to a compatible device is the only solution

Restoring service
To regain network access:

  1. Get a device with a compatible TAC
  2. Move your SIM to the new device
  3. Service will restore automatically

Checking your device
Text '3G' to 3498 to check if your device will be blocked. This check uses your device's TAC to confirm compatibility with Australian networks and emergency calling requirements.

Important: Once blocking begins, you won't receive notifications on a blocked device. Check compatibility and upgrade before the shutdown date.

After blocking begins, if a device doesn't connect that previously did, it is likely incompatible and the SIM should be moved to a compatible device to connect. It's important to note that you service remains active and won't be impacted by your device status.

If you have received a notification from us including the reference that "recent activity indicates use of a device that will be impacted", it is likely that you need to upgrade to a compatible device to continue using our services.

Please note that email notifications were sent to the account-holder, and the affected device could be any, some, or all of the devices connected to an account.

If you have multiple services it is important to check the specifications on each device to ensure that they support 4G for data and VoLTE for calls, and are compatible with the 4G and/or 5G bands that ALDImobile operates upon.

Device impacts from 28 October 2024
The Australian Communications and Media Authority confirmed specific requirements for mobile devices after the 3G shutdown. As a result, devices have been blocked from the network if they are:

  • 3G-only
  • Are a 4G phone without VoLTE capability
  • Use 3G for emergency calls even if they have 4G

Different devices, different impacts:

Mobile phones:

  • Must support 4G VoLTE for all calls, including emergency services
  • Require correct software version and settings
  • Have been blocked if they don't meet these requirements

Non-calling devices (IoT, M2M, tablets, etc):

  • 3G-only devices lose network access
  • 4G devices without VoLTE can continue accessing data
  • Must be compatible with current network bands
  • No emergency calling requirements if not phone capable

Checking your device compatibility
If you've received a notification about device compatibility:

  1. Text '3G' to 3498 for an immediate device check
  2. To validate whether a device has been blocked visit the Telstra Wholesale blocked device checker and enter your device IMEI 
  3. Verify for each device on your account
  4. Check specifications for:
    • 4G VoLTE capability
    • Emergency calling over 4G
    • Network band compatibility (especially Band 28)
    • Software/settings requirements

Multiple service considerations:

  • Check each device individually
  • Don't assume all devices on your account are affected
  • Verify specifications even if you haven't received a notification
  • Consider both calling and non-calling devices

Required actions:

  1. For incompatible phones:
    • Replace with a 4G VoLTE capable device, or
    • Update software/settings if device supports VoLTE
  2. For 3G non-calling devices:
    • Upgrade to 4G compatible versions
    • Ensure network band compatibility

Timing:

  • 3G shutdown and device blocking began on 28 October 2024

The shutdown date was aligned with regulatory requirements and network planning. To maintain uninterrupted service, ensure all your devices meet new network requirements.

Critical update: Following ACMA's Emergency Call Service Determination, devices that cannot make emergency calls over 4G VoLTE were blocked from accessing the network from 28 October 2024.

Affected devices

Mobile phones
Devices are blocked from the network if they:

  • Are 3G-only
  • Don't support VoLTE calling
  • Make emergency calls over 3G

Devices with limited 4G band support may experience partial or full coverage gaps, depending on your location and the specific bands supported.

Other connected devices
Any device with a SIM card must be 4G compatible to continue working. This includes tablets, laptops, security cameras, monitoring devices, medical alarms, and IoT devices.

Network requirements
Calling devices must support VoLTE for all calls, including emergency calls. For optimal coverage, devices should be compatible with Telstra Wholesale network 4G bands: 700MHz (B28, most important), 1800MHz (B3), 2100MHz (B1), and 2600MHz (B7).

Checking your device

Quick check
Text '3G' to 3498 from your device. You'll receive current device information, network capability status, and any required upgrade information.

Detailed verification
Search your device specifications online to check VoLTE and 4G band support. Verify the software version requirements and ensure emergency calling capability over 4G is supported.

Software considerations
Even compatible devices may need software updates or configuration changes. This includes network settings updates, VoLTE activation, and emergency calling setup. Check your device settings and install any available updates.

Important: The 3G shutdown has already completed. Check your device now to avoid service interruption.

Critical impact
From 28 October 2024, all 3G-only devices were blocked from the network. This means:

These devices lost all connectivity:

  • No calls (including emergency 000 calls)
  • No text messages
  • No mobile data
  • No network access of any kind

Why this happens
3G-only devices cannot connect to 4G or 5G networks. When 3G was switched off, these devices have no network to connect to. This affects all 3G-only devices, including:

  • Mobile phones
  • Sensors and trackers
  • Connected laptops
  • IoT devices
  • Security systems

Checking your device

Mobile phones
Text '3G' to 3498 for an assessment of your device's capability.

Device settings check:

  • Android: Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network
  • iPhone: Settings > Mobile Data > Mobile Data Options
  • Other devices: Check manufacturer documentation

Required action
You must upgrade to a compatible device to continue using it with your service. Your new device should have:

Essential features:

  • 4G for data
  • VoLTE capability, if a calling device
  • Emergency calling over 4G VoLTE, if a calling device
  • Compatibility with ALDImobile network bands

For non-phone devices:
Contact the manufacturer for a 4G-compatible replacement or alternative solution.

Getting help
For specific recommendations, visit your local phone retailer for compatible devices.

Important: Having 4G capability alone isn't enough to ensure your device will work after 3G shutdown commenced on 28 October 2024.

Why you received a notification
If we've contacted you about the 3G closure notifying you about an impacted device, our network data likely indicates that a device on your account either:

  • Lacks VoLTE (HD calling) capability
  • Currently makes emergency calls over 3G
  • Needs software updates to enable VoLTE

Understanding VoLTE requirements
A 4G device must have VoLTE (Voice over LTE or HD calling) capability to make calls after the shutdown. Without VoLTE, mobile phones are blocked from the network, even if it can connect to 4G for data.

For calling devices (phones)
Your device needs:

  • 4G or 5G data capability
  • VoLTE support for voice calls
  • Ability to make emergency calls over 4G

For non-calling devices
If your device only uses data (like tablets, dongles or IoT devices), it only needs 4G capability to continue working after the shutdown. VoLTE isn't required for devices that don't make calls.

Checking your device
Text '3G' to 3498 to check if your device needs:

  • A hardware upgrade
  • Software updates
  • Settings changes

This will help you understand exactly what action you need to take after the shut down date.

Yes - you must upgrade your device. The ACMA's Emergency Call Service Determination requires all devices to make emergency calls over 4G VoLTE, or they will be blocked from the network.

Why immediate action is required
The situation changed from previous advice. It's no longer about losing parts of your service - devices that can't make emergency calls over 4G VoLTE will be blocked from connecting to the network entirely after the 3G shutdown. This means you'll have no calls (including emergency), no text messages, no data services, and no network access of any kind.

Is my device blocked?
To validate whether a device has been blocked visit the Telstra Wholesale blocked device checker and enter your device IMEI.

Network requirements
Your new device must support 4G VoLTE for regular calls and emergency calling over 4G. It should also be compatible with current network bands for optimal coverage. Without these capabilities, your device won't be allowed to connect to the network after the shutdown date.

Timing considerations
3G shutdown has already commenced. Upgrade now to ensure your new device is fully compatible and working correctly as you may have already been exposed to sudden loss of service if your device is impacted.

Choosing a new device
When selecting a replacement device, make sure it's purchased from a reputable Australian seller. This helps ensure the device:

  • Supports emergency calling over 4G VoLTE
  • Is compatible with Australian networks
  • Meets all regulatory requirements

Need help?
Text '3G' to 3498 to confirm your current device status. This will give you specific advice on whether your current device is able to make calls to emergency services and whether a hardware upgrade is required.

Critical update: Following ACMA regulations, devices that cannot make emergency calls over 4G VoLTE were blocked from the network from 28 October 2024.

Emergency calling capability
Most modern 4G VoLTE devices will continue making emergency calls after the shutdown. However, some older 4G devices are hardwired to use 3G specifically for emergency calls - this cannot be changed through settings or updates.

Impact on affected devices
If your mobile phone uses 3G for emergency calls:

  • It was blocked from connecting to the network
  • Cannot be modified to work after shutdown
  • Must be replaced with a compatible device

This applies even if your device can make regular calls over 4G VoLTE.

Checking your device
Text '3G' to 3498 to verify your device's emergency calling capability. The tool will tell you if you need:

  • A hardware upgrade (new device)
  • Software updates (if applicable)

You can also validate whether a device has been blocked by visiting the Telstra Wholesale blocked device checker and entering your device IMEI. 

Important: Do not call 000 to test your device. This interferes with emergency services and won't confirm compatibility.

Required action
If your device cannot make emergency calls over 4G we strongly recommend upgrading to a newer, compatible device from a reputable seller in Australia and verify emergency calling capability before the shutdown. This will ensure you can continue making calls to 000 and other emergency services after the 3G network is decommissioned.

Remember: Emergency calling capability is built into the device hardware. If your device is incompatible, it must be replaced - no settings changes can fix this limitation.

ALDImobile utilises the Telstra Wholesale Mobile Network to reach more than 98.8% of the Australian population with 4G or 5G and covers more than 1.6 million square kilometres of the Australian landmass. The service provides 4G coverage reaching at least 98.7% of the Australian population and at least 75% with 5G.

To fully leverage the capabilities of the Telstra Wholesale network, it's important to have a device that supports the bands in use within the intended usage area:

Required bands:

4G Network (LTE):
  • 700MHz (Band 28): Primary coverage band
5G Network (NR):
  • 3.6GHz (Band n78): Primary 5G band

Additional capacity bands (varies by location):

4G Network (LTE):
  • 1800MHz (Band 3)
  • 2100MHz (Band 1)
  • 2600MHz (Band 7)
5G Network (NR):
  • 850MHz (Band n5)
  • 2.6GHz (Band n7)
  • 26GHz (Band n258)

Note that not all frequencies and bands are active in every location. To determine which bands are active in a specific area, you can visit the Radio Frequency National Site Archive (RFNSA) and look up the supported frequencies at towers in your areas of interest.

If you have any further questions about our network, please see our coverage map.

Essential requirements
Your new device must support VoLTE for making calls, including emergency calls, over 4G. It should also be compatible with the Telstra Wholesale network's 4G bands for optimal coverage.

Network bands
For the best coverage, ensure your device supports these key 4G bands:

  • 700MHz (B28), most important
  • 1800MHz (B3)
  • 2100MHz (B1)
  • 2600MHz (B7)

Where to check
You can verify device compatibility through:

  • Manufacturer's website
  • Device specifications page
  • Retailer during purchase
  • Product manual

For phones
When buying a new phone, specifically confirm:

  1. VoLTE/HD calling support
  2. Emergency calling over 4G
  3. Network band compatibility

For data-only devices
If your device doesn't make calls (like tablets or IoT devices), just ensure it supports 4G data on compatible network bands.

Need help?
Check or ask the retailer to confirm these specifications match those of compatible devices before purchase.

Check your device now
Text '3G' to 3498 to quickly check if your device was affected by the 3G network shutdown on 28 October 2024.

Important update
Due to new ACMA regulations, devices that cannot make emergency calls over 4G VoLTE have been blocked from the network from 28 October 2024.

This includes:

  • 3G-only devices
  • 4G phones without VoLTE
  • Devices that use 3G for emergency calls

How it works
The tool analyses recent network data to identify your current device and verify its compatibility. You'll receive one of these responses:

Possible responses

  1. No upgrade needed
    "Good news – your device will work as normal after the 3G closure on 28 October 2024, so you don't have to do anything."

  2. 3G - Blocked
    "This phone won't work for calls, Emergency 000 calls, texts or data when 3G closes, and will be blocked from accessing the network on 28 October 2024. Upgrade to a compatible 4G/5G device to stay connected."

  3. Non-VoLTE - Blocked
    "This phone won't be able to make calls or Emergency 000 calls when 3G closes, and will be blocked from 28 October 2024. Upgrade to a compatible 4G/5G device to stay connected."

  4. Update needed - Software update
    "This phone is using 3G to make calls and Emergency 000 calls, so you'll need to enable 4G calling before 28 October to stay connected. To do this, turn on VoLTE in your phone's settings and update your phone software to the latest version."

  5. Band 28 - Upgrade recommended
    "This phone can't connect to Telstra's main 4G frequency (700MHz), so you might have patchy/limited service in some places when 3G closes from 28 October 2024 (including for emergency 000 calls). Switch to a compatible 4G/5G device to keep getting the coverage you're used to."

  6. International model
    "This phone is an international model and can't connect to the mobile network's main 4G frequency (B28/700MHz), so you might have limited/patchy coverage after 28 October 2024, including for Emergency 000 calls. For more reliable coverage after the closure, upgrade to a compatible device."

  7. E000 - Blocked
    "This phone won't be able to make Emergency 000 calls when 3G closes, and will be blocked from 28 October 2024. Upgrade to a compatible 4G/5G device to stay connected."

  8. Non calling devices
    "Looks like you texted from something other than a mobile phone. You'll need to check with the manufacturer if your device will still work when 3G closes from 28 October 2024 as it might not be able to make Emergency 000 calls over 4G."

  9. System unavailable
    "The 3G Checker is currently unavailable. Please try again later."

Recently changed devices
If you've upgraded your phone, the tool may initially show your previous device information. Allow 24 hours for data refresh and check again after this period.

Network compatibility
This service is exclusively for ALDImobile customers. Users on other networks should contact their provider for compatibility checking. Always verify device specifications with the manufacturer.

Take action now
3G shutdown has already begun. Act now to avoid service interruption and ensure continued access to emergency services.

 

Important information about the 3G Shutdown

We use the Telstra Wholesale Mobile Network, with a coverage area that reaches more than 98.8% of the Australian population with 3G*, 4G or 5G and covers more than 1.6m square kilometres of the Australian landmass. The service provides 4G coverage reaching at least 98.7% of the Australian population and at least 75% with 5G. *3G network services will cease 28 October 2024.

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.