Welcome to the ACMA’s Spectrum auction e-bulletin
In the July issue:
  1. ACMA undertakes review of technical frameworks within TLGs
  2. ACMA considers comments on draft reallocation recommendations for the 700 MHz (digital dividend) and 2.5 GHz bands
  3. ACMA considers representations on consultation of the 2.5 GHz mid-band gap

Technical frameworks review undertaken / Reallocation submissions considered

The ACMA has established four Technical Liaison Groups (TLGs) to support the development and/or review of technical frameworks for spectrum licenses in the following bands:

  • 700 MHz band (703-748 / 758-803 MHz);
  • 800 MHz band (825-845 / 870-890 MHz);
  • 1800 MHz band (1710-1785 / 1805-1880 MHz);
  • 2.5 GHz band (2500-2570 / 2620–2690 MHz).

An introductory meeting for TLG members was held on 18 July 2011, and work has now commenced within the TLGs.

The outcome of each TLG is expected to be finalised by late 2011. Once finalised, the ACMA will release final documents setting out the technical framework for each designated band, on its website.

For further information please contact the Major Allocations Engineering Section .
Existing TLG members can log onto the sharepoint siteto view discussion papers, submit responses or contribute to online discussions.

The opportunity for potentially-affected apparatus licensees to comment on the terms of the ACMA’s draft reallocation recommendations has now closed. The draft recommendations propose that the Minister declare specified parts of the 700 MHz and 2.5 GHz bands for reallocation by issuing spectrum licences.

The ACMA received nine submissions to the terms of the draft recommendations which are available on the ACMA website.

All comments received are now being considered by the ACMA as it prepares to make its final recommendations to the Minister.

If the Minister chooses to adopt the ACMA’s final recommendations and make a spectrum reallocation declaration for the designated bands, the ACMA will move ahead with plans to conduct a single spectrum auction of both bands in the second half of 2012.

Consultation on 2.5 GHz mid-band gap

The ACMA’s consultation period on the proposed recommendation that the Minister designate the mid-band gap (2570-2620 MHz) for spectrum licensing has now closed.

The ACMA received six submissions to the proposed recommendation which are now available on the ACMA website.

Currently, the ACMA is considering all representations received as it prepares to make its final recommendation to the Minister.

If the Minister chooses to make the proposed designation, the ACMA will undertake the process of converting the existing apparatus licences in the mid-band gap to spectrum licences. This will allow for greater flexibility in the use of spectrum and provide for licence terms of up to 15 years.