The National Rural Health Alliance has told the Senate’s Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee 3G Mobile Network Shutdown inquiry that the move to 4G could limit people’s access to telehealth in regional areas. 

However, Telstra and Optus have dismissed calls to delay the 3G mobile network would cause any threats to public safety. 

Telstra is expected to close the ageing network on August 31, having delayed its June deadline, while Optus will shut down in September.

TPG/Vodafone already closed its operation in January. 

Image: Youtube. 

 The main concerns are that the proposed 4G coverage will not match that of the current 3G network, but the telcos claim that equivalent coverage will be provided.  

Telstra submitted that, as at April 2024, only 112 sites out of 11,700 were still to be upgraded from 3G to 4G,19 while Optus has identified 110 sites that will need to be upgraded. 

Interim report highlights risks

The Senate’s Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee’s interim report published on Thursday August 1 concluded that “The shutdown of the 3G mobile network poses significant risks for those who rely on medical alarms and personal emergency response systems (PERS)."

"PERS refers to a wide range of devices that are typically worn as a bracelet or necklace that enable the wearer to seek help in an emergency. They usually operate on wireless networks, including wi-fi, or via a mobile connection.” 

Susi Tegen. Image: National Rural Health Alliance. 

At the committee’s public hearing National Rural Health Alliance CEO Susi Tegen said  “Low-quality connectivity outside of Australia’s cities is an ongoing issue. This is exacerbated by the 3G network shutdown for people living in rural areas,” said Ms Tegen. 

She added that Governments’ investment in digital technologies and infrastructure has increasingly provided opportunities for both economic and social benefit. However, for many people living in rural Australia, these benefits cannot be realised without fit-for-purpose, reliable telephone, internet and Global Positioning System connections that are both accessible and affordable.   

“This telehealth service relies on the availability and effectiveness of telecommunications connectivity,” she said. 

National Farmers Federation (NFF) Deputy CEO Charlie Thomas also featured at the hearing saying that “Since its introduction in 2006, the 3G network has been a steadfast lifeline for many consumers across the country, but arguably for none more so than those living in regional, rural and remote Australia”.  

While the NFF told the inquiry it was concerned that: 

• Anecdotal reports that service is diminishing or shifting in the lead up to the shutdown. 
• Whether the shutdown will lead to poorer connectivity outcomes. 
• Unforeseen impacts on devices, such as ag tech and handsets. 
• Customers’ ability to raise concerns and resolve issues quickly and efficiently. 

The Senate committee has recommended the Minister for Communications (minister) urgently meet with Telstra and Optus to seek their agreement to extend the shutdown of the 3G network until the minister is satisfied” that a number of conditions are met including that “the 4G network provides coverage equivalent to or better than the coverage provided by the licensee's 3G network.” 

The committee’s full report is expected to be released in November this year.