The state government is urging older South Australians to check their personal alert devices are 4G compatible, before major telecommunications providers switch off their 3G networks.

Telstra was due to shut down its 3G network from 1 July, but has now delayed it to 31 August because so many older devices are still in use.

Optus is scheduled to shut down its 3G network from 1 September, while Vodaphone has already shuts its down.

The upcoming network shutdown will not only impact mobile phones but also personal and medical alert devices – such as pendants and call button devices, which allow a person to quickly and easily send for help in the event of an emergency, such as a fall. 

These devices provide users with peace of mind and a sense of security as they get older.

Older devices reliant on 3G technology will stop working after the shutdown.

Customers of Personal AlertSA, a state government program that funds or subsidises devices and monitoring for eligible older people, can access support to upgrade to a 4G device – including options with no out-of-pocket cost.

About 11,000 South Australians are enrolled in Personal AlertSA and while the vast majority are now using 4G devices, there are still more than 2,200 customers who have yet to transition their device. 

These people are urged to call the Personal AlertSA hotline urgently on 1300 700 169.

People who access their personal alert devices from private providers or Commonwealth-supported programs, are strongly urged to contact their system provider for support before the 3G network is cut-off.

For more information on Personal AlertSA and eligibility, go online www.sa.gov.au/concessions/pasa or phone 1300 700 169 Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

Anne Burgess AM, is Deputy Chair of the Council on the Ageing (COTA) SA.

“Personal alert devices help older people to feel more confident and safer in their homes,” she says.

“Don’t risk having one that doesn’t work just when you need it.

“If you’re not sure what network you’re on or how to move to 4G call 1300 700 169 and someone can help you.

“If you have a family member or know someone who uses a personal alert device please encourage them to check their device and their network.”

Telstra customers can find out if their mobile phones are impacted SMS 3 to 3498. For more information go to the website.