3G Network Closure

From 28 October 2024, 3G services will no longer be available on our network. But don’t worry. We’re here to help you through this change.

1. We'll be reaching out to customers who we believe may have a device impacted by these changes.
2. If you receive an email or message, we recommend checking your device manual or the manufacturer’s website or contacting their support team to confirm whether the device relies on 3G. We’ve provided more details below.
3. If your device relies on 3G, you must upgrade to a 4G or 5G capable device to stay connected. We’ve provided options below on how to do this.

From 28 October 2024, 3G services will no longer be available on our network. But don’t worry. We’re here to help you through this change.

For any new or existing customers who attempt to connect a ‘3G only’ device or ‘emergency calls at risk’ device to our partner’s Optus 3G network for the first time (or after a period of inactivity) after 9 September 2024, the device will be subject to IMEI blocking from the network.

Blocking will commence from the 24 September 2024.

Once the IMEI (handset) is blocked, users will only have access to 000 emergency calls until the 3G network is completely switched off at their location.

What happens when a handset is IMEI Blocked by the carrier?

When an user’s handset has been IMEI blocked by Optus:

• When an user’s handset has been IMEI blocked by Optus:
• Blocked device will not be able to use voice, data and SMS services except emergency calls (if device’s e-call compatible network is available).
• If the end user is roaming on an overseas network when the device is IMEI blocked, their services (voice, data, and SMS) should continue to work on overseas network.

For any new or existing customers who attempt to connect a ‘3G only’ device or ‘emergency calls at risk’ device to our partner’s Optus 3G network for the first time (or after a period of inactivity) after 9 September 2024, the device will be subject to IMEI blocking from the network.

Blocking will commence from the 24 September 2024.

Once the IMEI (handset) is blocked, users will only have access to 000 emergency calls until the 3G network is completely switched off at their location.

When a user’s handset has been IMEI blocked by Optus:

• There will be no operator logo, and it will simply display ‘SOS’.
• Blocked device will not be able to use voice, data and SMS services except emergency calls (if device’s e-call compatible network is available).
• If the end user is roaming on an overseas network when the device is IMEI blocked, their services (voice, data, and SMS) should continue to work on overseas network.

To remain connected and have good network coverage, you’ll need to make sure that from October 2024:

1. Your device supports 4G VoLTE (if your device is used for voice calls)
2. Your device is compatible with the 4G 700 MHz (B28) spectrum.

If your device is not 4G or 5G capable, you will need to get a new device to continue accessing the network. This may mean buying a new or refurbished phone or possibly getting a used device from a friend or family member. It’s important to check the device manual or contact the manufacturer to confirm the device is compatible.

To determine if your device will be affected, we recommend checking its manual, the manufacturer's website, or contacting the manufacturer's support team.

In technical terms, please confirm if your device:

1. Relies on 3G 900MHz spectrum for voice and/or data service
2. Supports 4G VoLTE (including VoLTE Emergency calling) – this is important if you’re using your device to make and receive voice calls
3. Is compatible with 4G 700 MHz (B28) spectrum. The L700MHz is a low-band 4G spectrum used by Optus and some other providers for optimal 4G coverage.

Recent device models bought from other retailers or overseas may not be compatible with the 4G 700MHz spectrum band and may also be impacted.

This is a list of common devices that may be affected:

Note: Given the large number of device brands and models, we’re unable to provide a comprehensive list of all devices that may be affected. If your device is not on the list, we recommend checking its manual, visiting the manufacturer’s website, or contacting the manufacturer's support team.

3G is the third generation of wireless mobile telecommunications technology. “G” stands for Generation, and the higher the number, the newer and more efficient the technology.

Each generation of technology uses radio frequency spectrum bands. Mobile phones and devices use these spectrum bands to communicate with the mobile network.

Commander partners with Optus to deliver mobile services. Optus owns and operates the mobile network (including 3/4/5G) that your mobile service operates on. The Optus network powers all Commander mobile customers.

The Optus 3G network runs on a 900MHz spectrum band.

From October 2024, Optus will repurpose the 3G network. This will improve the experience of 4G services and support the growth of 5G technology.

Re-farming is when a specific mobile radio frequency band is repurposed from one technology to another.

As technology evolves, people are using 3G less and less. That’s why Optus has decided to repurpose 3G to improve the 4G network and boost the 5G rollout.

No, not immediately. Commander is looking to adopt 5G technology in the near future as the coverage becomes wider and more accessible. In the meantime, 4G coverage will be the primary technology for Commander mobile customers. 

From October 2024, the Optus 3G network will be shutting down.

If your device doesn’t work with the Optus 4G network or relies on the 3G network for emergency calls, then you won't be able to make an emergency call to 000 on the Optus mobile network.

It’s important to check your device manual, the manufacturer’s website or contact their support team to confirm if you’ll be impacted.

Related: Important Update from Optus on Mobile Handset Safety

No, you won’t lose your mobile number as long as you upgrade to a 4G or 5G compatible device (with Commander or another provider) and keep your number.

Unfortunately, mobile broadband services are different as they can’t be transferred to a mobile phone plan.

Yes, some mobile broadband customers will be impacted, so it’s important that you check with the device manufacturer to confirm if you’ll be affected.

Compatible 4G Apple iPhones:

1. Go to your phone’s Settings and select ‘Mobile’, then ‘Mobile Data Options’
2. Select ‘Enable 4G’, then select ‘Voice & Data’
3. If your phone is compatible, you should have the option to turn on VoLTE available. 

Other VoLTE-compatible devices:

The first step is to make sure your device’s operating system is up to date. Once you’ve updated it, VoLTE should be automatically enabled (sometimes, this can take up to 4 hours).

Then, please refer to your device manual on enabling VoLTE since instructions differ between various device models.

An IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identifier) is a unique code programmed into every phone or mobile device. Your device manufacturer will most probably require this code when you contact them.

To find your phone’s IMEI, follow the following steps:

1. Open your phone app
2. Dial *#06# into the dial pad
3. Press enter or call
4. Your device automatically responds with its IMEI.

You can use the IMEI to check your device specifications with the manufacturer.

Most likely not, but there is a potential when upgrading your handset device.

Many 3G 900MHz dependent devices use a mini/micro SIM, and most 4G devices require a nano SIM.

To order a replacement SIM, you can call our service team on 1300 523 970 for support.

The repurposing of the Optus 3G network will be happening nationally. 

If you currently use a personal medical device or security device that relies on the 3G 900MHz band, it will stop working from October 2024. We recommend you check with the device manufacturer and upgrade your affected device (with Optus or another provider) as soon as possible.

Most major Australian telcos are repurposing their 3G technologies to make way for more advanced 4G and 5G technologies.

If you want to keep your current device and are considering moving to another mobile network, we recommend first checking to see if they still support 3G. 

If you don’t want to upgrade your device and it’s dependent on 3G 900MHz, from October 2024, you may no longer be able to make calls, send or receive texts, or browse the internet on your Commander mobile service.