Telstra advised users to text "3" to 3498, and the telco will inform them they need to upgrade their device.

"An easy way to remember this – the number corresponds to ‘3G XT’ on your phone’s on-screen dialing keypad!" Telstra wrote.

"We’ll respond to let you know the status of the device you’re messaging from, and whether you need to take any action," the telco said.

If the user's device is incompatible, Telstra said it is their responsibility to upgrade it before 30 June 2024.

If users are not sure what to do, Telstra suggests going online or to the nearest Telstra store to show the staff the SMS they received. They can also call on 13 22 00 for additional information.

Telstra noted older 4G and 5G phones still use 3G to call Triple Zero. When they close their 3G, the phones won't be able to call 000. Telstra's SMS checker will advise and recommend an upgrade.

"We are considering all actions to ensure all our customers can call Triple Zero in an emergency after the closure."

"Furthermore, if you or a loved one has a medical alert device, we encourage you to check with the manufacturer that it is 4G VoLTE (meaning it can make voice calls on 4G) compatible."

Telstra said since it announced the closure of its 3G network almost five years ago, it saw a significant decline in 3G usage across its national network.

It claimed 3G accounts for just 1% of its total traffic network.

Telstra developed the SMS tool "to make sure everyone is prepared and has an easy way to check the compatibility of their device."

Last March, iTWire reported Telstra's 3G shutdown may be delayed because users are still using 3G services and may be unable to access Triple Zero services.

The government is forming a working group comprising Telstra, Optus, TPG Telecom, and the Australian Mobile Telecommunications Authority (AMTA) to manage the switch from 3G to 4G "in a safer way."

This first appeared in the subscription newsletter CommsWire on 09 April 2024.