Australian Regulator Consults on 400 MHz Spectrum Usage

The Australian Communications and Media Authority has taken the first public step in reviewing arrangements in the radiofrequency spectrum from 403-520 MHz (known as the 400 MHz band) by seeking public and industry comment on options for the future use of the band.

There are a large number of disparate users of the 400 MHz band, which is used predominantly by land mobile services. These include government agencies (such as the Department of Defence, and state and territory emergency services) and commercial entities such as broadcasters, mining companies, security firms and taxi companies.

"There has been increasing pressure from industry and users of the 400 MHz band to establish arrangements that will better accommodate future communication needs through current and emerging technologies," said Chris Chapman, ACMA Chairman.

The 400 MHz band is also used for other radiocommunication services including fixed (point-to-point and point-to-multipoint), radiolocation and amateur services.

Much of the band has become congested in the major capital cities and overall there is a growing need to support more efficient technologies. An additional motivation for reviewing the band is to identify harmonised spectrum to facilitate radiocommunications interoperability of certain government agencies (such as law enforcement and other emergency services).

"Consultation about possible future arrangements for the band provides an ideal opportunity for stakeholders to consider their needs and to put forward implementation strategies for improved radiocommunications interoperability," said Mr Chapman.

Posted to the site on 18th April 2008