3G Shutdown in Australia: Will my phone still work?

As Australia phases out its 3G networks, some devices have been blocked on certain networks in Australia. What that means is that there is a chance that your phone will not be able to connect to the Australian mobile networks; and it doesn’t matter if you are roaming, or if you got a local SIM card (or travel eSIM). Let’s take a look at the 3G shutdown, the new policy that is related, and whether you will be impacted by this change.

What is the new rule and why is it in place?

Along with new legislation tied to the 3G shutdown, the new legislation mandates that all phones connected to Australian networks must be able to make emergency Triple Zero (000) calls over 4G.

In response to this, Australian telcos Telstra and Optus have implemented blocks against certain devices. What this means is that if your phone doesn't support making emergency Triple Zero calls over 4G, you might find yourself unable to access local networks when you arrive in Australia.

This requirement affects both local and international users, ensuring that all phones operating on Australian networks are capable of connecting to emergency services.

It is important to note that you might have a 4G phone, but it doesn’t always mean that it would make emergency cals over 4G. Some international devices that haven’t been configured to make Triple Zero calls over 4G will likely not work on Australian networks.

How International Visitors Could Be Affected

Both Telstra and Optus have confirmed that they will block non-compliant phones from accessing their networks. This includes phones used by international visitors, whether they’re roaming on their home networks or using a local Australian SIM (or a travel eSIM).

This restriction relies on a system known as TAC-based blocking, where the “Type Allocation Code” (TAC) in a phone’s unique identifier (IMEI) corresponds to the manufacturer and model. If a particular model has been flagged as incompatible, all devices with the same TAC will be blocked. So, for example, if Telstra or Optus has restricted a certain U.S. iPhone 11 model, all U.S. iPhone 11s with that TAC will be unable to connect to their networks.

Vodafone’s Different Approach

Unlike Telstra and Optus, Vodafone is currently the only major Australian provider allowing non-compliant international phones limited access to its network. Visitors with phones that can't make Triple Zero calls can still use Vodafone for up to 90 days, although they’ll be notified about the emergency call limitations. Vodafone uses IMEI-based blocking, which only restricts individual incompatible devices rather than entire models, giving visitors a better chance of connecting.

Can you still use your phone in Australia?

If you are using a newer phone, chances are that you will be able to use your phone as per normal. Whether you decide to turn on international roaming, or if you decide to get a local SIM card or an eSIM for Australia, you will be able to stay connected without issues.

However, if you were using an older phone, then it could be possible that you would face some issues. Phones designed for overseas markets sometimes operate on different frequencies than those sold in Australia, which can create compatibility issues. For instance, older iPhone models (such as iPhone 11 and below) sold in the United States don't support Band 28, which is necessary for VoLTE (Voice over LTE) calls in Australia. If your device lacks Band 28 support, you may encounter network issues.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a comprehensive list of devices that have been blocked. To be sure if your device has been impacted by the block, you can use the Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association (AMTA) checker and check your IMEI number to confirm if it would work.

Alternatively, reach out to your mobile provider to see if they have any insights on potential compatibility issues. And if you have an older device or are concerned about compatibility, you might want to look out for an eSIM that taps on the Vodafone network in Australia, thanks to Vodafone’s temporary access allowance.

Can You Still Use Wi-Fi if my phone is blocked?

Yes, even if your phone can’t connect to an Australian mobile network, Wi-Fi will still work. So, you’ll still be able to access the internet at cafes, hotels, and other Wi-Fi hotspots.

Stay connected in Australia with an Nomad travel eSIM

Australia’s 3G shutdown, paired with new emergency-call regulations, could impact your phone’s functionality during your visit. Checking your device’s 4G emergency capabilities and compatibility with Australian LTE bands can help ensure you stay connected while traveling.

If you are using a newer phone, chances are that you will still be able to stay connected without issues. And one of the best ways to stay connected in Australia is to get a Nomad travel eSIM for Australia. Nomad provides travel eSIMs in over 190+ destinations worldwide, including Australia so you can travel without worries.

While most of Nomad’s Australia eSIM works on the Optus network, Nomad also offers a 2GB plan that works with the Vodafone network - in case you are not sure if your phone is impacted by the block.

Alternatively, Nomad’s Global-EX eSIM also provides coverage in Australia with the Vodafone network. Nomad’s Global-EX eSIM offers long duration data plans of larger sizes, making it a good option for frequent travelers who do not want to keep installing a new eSIM for each trip or do not want to waste unused data.