The peak lobby group representing Australia’s telecommunication industry announced last week it will phase out 3G networks in the region on December 15.
The Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association (AMTA) confirmed with The Echo, when asked, that it was a commercial decision, meaning there is no legislative requirements around maintaining older networks.
In a press release last week, AMTA said there will be an ‘imminent closure of 3G mobile networks across the Byron Shire, as part of the nationwide closure’.
‘With major mobile network operators Telstra, Optus, and TPG Telecom phasing out their 3G networks over the coming year, AMTA urges all residents to prepare by upgrading affected devices to ensure they have connection to faster 4G and 5G mobile services’.
AMTA’s CEO, Louise Hyland, said, ‘If devices are not upgraded, it could mean that you are no longer able to make emergency calls to 000 from that device once Australia’s 3G networks are fully inactive.’
‘Older 3G devices and some older 4G phones may be impacted from December 15, 2023 onwards’.
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