Rural Australians Brace For 3G Shutdown Amid Connectivity Concerns Senate inquiry raises alarms over potential loss of health and emergency services for remote communitiesIn a nation where vast stretches of land can mean a world of difference between neighbors, the impending 3G network shutdown has stirred alarm bells among rural Australians. Telstra is slated to pull the plug on August 31, with Optus following suit in September, while TPG/Vodafone discontinued its 3G coverage back in January. A recent Senate inquiry, engaging in public hearings throughout Cooma and Canberra, underscores the growing discontent among rural citizens. Many rural residents rely on medical alarms that auto-dial emergency services, and the thought of them becoming obsolete due to the network transition raises serious fears. The implications of the 3G shutdown are not merely confined to farming communities hunting for cell service.

Source: The Guardian July 23, 2024 08:42 UTC