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Our 3G network is closing down

At Vodafone we are always working hard to bring you faster speeds and new features on our mobile network. Our 4G network now covers more than 24 million Australians and our state-of-the-art 5G network is stronger than ever. With superior speeds and greater connectivity available across these networks, we are now preparing to switch off our legacy 3G mobile network by the end of 2023.

This means if you’re a Vodafone customer or business that uses 3G, it is time to upgrade to a new device that can work on 4G and 5G networks. Our priority is to keep our remaining 3G customers connected and help ensure they make a smooth transition to 4G or 5G prior to the December 2023 switch off date.

Frequently asked questions

 When is the 3G network closing down?

Vodafone will switch off its 3G network on 15 December 2023.
What do I need to do?

The vast majority of our customers do not have to do anything at all and will continue accessing our 4G and 5G networks as they do today.

A very small number of our customers have 3G-only handsets, tablets and connected devices and they will need to upgrade those devices before December 2023.

Some 4G handsets may also need a settings change to be able to continue to make and receive voice calls using our 4G network.
Why is the 3G network closing down?

Mobile carriers around the world are closing down their 3G networks as more advanced 4G and 5G network services become widespread. Our 4G and 5G networks are more efficient at delivering greater speed and capacity, which means better service and experience for customers.

Similar shutdowns have happened before. All Australian mobile networks switched off their 2G networks a few years ago when they upgraded to 4G.

Vodafone’s licence to access 3G spectrum (the invisible electromagnetic frequencies that transmit mobile data) is set to expire in mid-2024. Although most customers rarely need to access 3G, we want to make sure customers have the appropriate notice and to offer support to those who need assistance.
What devices are affected by the 3G closure?

All 3G-only devices (including phones, tablets and mobile broadband devices) and in rare cases, some older 4G phones, will be affected.

Some older 4G phones that do not have a feature called 'VoLTE' (Voice over Long Term Evolution) will not be able to make and receive voice calls.

Please contact your device manufacturer or check for VoLTE capable devices if you are unsure of your device’s specific capabilities.
I have a 3G phone, how does this affect me?

If you have a 3G-only phone then you will no longer be able to make calls, send texts or access the internet on your phone when the 3G network switches off. You will still be able to make emergency 000 calls on other 3G networks when in coverage. WiFi internet access is still possible.

We recommend you upgrade your phone to a 4G or 5G compatible device to continue having mobile service. If you're ready to upgrade, call us today on 1555 to talk through your options.
What does this mean for my business?

If you are an enterprise customer, please contact 135888 to discuss your individual business needs directly.
Will 4G/5G network coverage differ to 3G coverage?

Our 4G coverage is similar in size and reach to our 3G coverage and our 5G coverage is growing every day. For more information, view our 4G and 5G coverage maps.
Does the 3G network closure only affect phones?

No. Other devices like tablets, mobile broadband modems, smart watches, some home security systems, and other connected devices might also be using 3G services. Please contact your device manufacturer or Vodafone if you are unsure of your device’s specific capabilities.
What is VoLTE and how do I switch it on?

Voice over LTE (VoLTE) is a feature that allows you to make voice calls using our 4G network. You might need to turn the VoLTE setting on. You can check your device and settings on our VoLTE support page.

Android devices

If you have a Samsung device, Voice over LTE should automatically be enabled. If you’ve previously disabled VoLTE and want to reenable it, or would like to check if it’s enabled on your Android device, please go to your Settings > Mobile Networks

Apple devices

If you have an Apple device iPhone 6 or later, Voice over LTE should be automatically enabled. To check this or manually enable, please go to Settings > Mobile > Mobile Data options > Voice and Data
What do I do with my old 3G device?

The best way to recycle your old device is to take it to a Vodafone store. Our team will help you recycle it with Mobile Muster, the Australian mobile industry's official recycling scheme. For more information, view our Recycling support page.

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