When the 3G network shuts down in under five weeks, more than just mobile phones will be affected, and local business owners are among those most at risk.
Australian payment company Tyro is urging business owners to prepare for the shutdown now, to avoid disruptions to how they take payments when the shutdown rolls around.
There are still some businesses operating within the Goulburn Valley using the 3G network to accept payments.
When the 3G network shuts down on the weekend of August 31 and September 1, these devices will no longer function unless switched to Wi-Fi or an Ethernet connection.
Tyro has contacted all customers who have an affected device to notify and instruct them on how to upgrade or make the switch to Wi-Fi.
With just over a month left to prepare, Tyro’s head of in-store payments Matt Patterson urges all business owners to check their devices now to avoid disruptions.
“We’ve been in contact with our merchants all over Australia to make sure every one of our businesses is 3G shutdown ready, but we know that if you’re a busy business owner with a working payments terminal, you may not have had the chance to check if this is something you need to do,” he said.
“The last thing we want for business owners is disruptions to their service, especially over Fathers’ Day weekend, which we know is a busy trading time for hospitality venues and retail stores.”
The switch from 3G to 4G is not complicated, and support is available.
GV Veterinary is one business that has made the switch. A change general manager Jeremy Lee said was quick and seamless.
“Tyro has sent several email notifications regarding the 3G network shutdown and the process was very easy,” he said.
“Having a quick and seamless payment process is very important for our customer service.
“It’s worth checking what capacity your payments machine has and matching that against your business needs.”
Mr Lee cautioned mobile businesses like food vans and those operating market stalls, to be especially proactive, as Wi-Fi connection will likely not be a viable option for their business.
“If you’re a mobile business, once the 3G network is shutdown you will need an alternative if that’s the only way your current Eftpos machine can process payments.”
Tyro customers can check for an email or SMS from the company, visit tyro.com/3G, or contact the customer service team during business hours on 1300 048 976.
Through the website, customers can complete a request to swap out 3G devices for one that will work after the shutdown.
There is an option to keep the existing EFTPOS machine and connect to Wi-Fi or Ethernet, though businesses are advised to have a back-up plan in place.
All business owners can visit 3gclosure.com.au for instructions on how to check if they will be impacted.
Oporto coming to Shepparton
A new fast food chain is coming to Shepparton.
Oporto, which serves Portuguese-style chicken and burgers, will be opening in September.
The News believes it will be located on Benalla Rd.
Job listings for an assistant manager have been posted on Seek, revealing that the new quick-service restaurant with a drive-through will be opening in just over a month.
The News reached out to Oporto for a comment but has not heard back.