FEDERAL Government inaction ahead of the 3G mobile phone network switch off was leaving Australians vulnerable, according to Mallee MP Anne Webster.
Telstra will shut down its 3G network in June, with Optus to follow in September, raising health concerns about incompatible life-saving medical devices.
“Many Australians rely on 3G-connected emergency pendants, and the risk of not being able to connect with 000 is too high,” Dr Webster said.
“While some providers have pledged to upgrade devices at no additional cost, the financial burden and logistical nightmare can fall on those least able to shoulder it.”
Dr Webster said the Communications Minister Michelle Rowland had failed to help vulnerable Australians navigate the changeover to 4G. “The closure of 3G has been planned since 2019 but the minister claims she didn’t know about the issues until March,” Dr Webster said.
“On top of the medical pendant issue, last year there were lots of warnings about some 4G phones being unable to work when 3G switches off because they still rely on the 3G network for voice calls. For the Minister to say she didn’t know about the issues is frankly alarming.
“Rural, remote and regional Australians have been left badly exposed due to ageing infrastructure, isolation and connection issues. 
“The Albanese Labor Government must ensure nobody is left behind when this shutdown occurs,” Dr Webster said last week.