The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Bruce Billson, has urged small, family, and farming businesses to prepare for the upcoming 3G network shutdown in August and September.

“The 3G switch-off will affect more than just your mobile phone signal,” Billson said. ““It could affect EFTPOS terminals, security systems and cameras, scanners, industrial routers, tablets, smart watches, asset tracking tools, surveying instrument, water and environmental monitoring and many of the wireless operating systems on farms.”

“Even some 4G-enabled devices have aspects that are powered by 3G, but users may not realise until they stop working, so it makes sense to have those checked as well," he said.

He emphasised the importance of checking these devices to avoid unexpected disruptions.

“It is vital for small, family, and farming businesses to take action urgently to determine if they will be affected and, if so, upgrade their technology before business-harming disconnection and technology dysfunction occurs,” he said.

Billson advised small businesses to contact their telecommunications provider or device manufacturer to confirm if a device will be affected. He also cautioned against scams, recommending that businesses only use trusted information and links when contacting mobile providers.

Telstra previously announced a delay in its 3G network switch-off until 31 August 2024. Optus plans to switch off its 3G network from 1 September 2024. TPG Telecom/Vodafone has already switched off its 3G network.

Businesses using the Telstra or Optus network can text “3” to 3498 to check if their device will be affected.

The Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association has a 3G Closure site, and ATMA 3G closure fact sheet.