3 launched Australia's first 3G mobile network in April 2003, operated by Hutchison Whampoa. Throughout the world, under the 3 brand, Hutchison Whampoa provides 3G services to over 20.7 million people in Australia, Austria, Denmark, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Norway, Sweden and the UK.
In June 2009, 3 and Vodafone Australia merged businesses through a 50:50 joint venture between Vodafone Group and Hutchison 3G Australia, operating under Vodafone Hutchison Australia (VHA).VHA is now owned 50% by Hutchison Whampoa Group, and 50% by Vodafone Group Plc. As at 30 September 2009, there are 6.3 million VHA customers in Australia.