Major telecommunications companies say their mobile coverage has either expanded or stayed the same since the 3-G network shutdown began in October 2024. But some rural Australians say they're getting poor service or complete blackouts, prompting safety concerns in some communities.
Key Points
- Tens of thousands of old mobile phones stopped working in October 2024 after telecommunication giants Telstra and Optus started the shutdown of its 3-G networks.
- A Senate inquiry in Canberra this week has been hearing about the impact of the end of 3-G on rural communities, including reports of reduced service or quality of their mobile service or, in some cases, new black spots.
- As for rectifying the issues for those affected, one expert says this cost should be covered by the telcos.
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