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Telstra's rivals eye point-to-point frequencies for country mobile

1800 MHz bands slated for auction

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is proposing a spectrum reallocation to give mobile carriers access to 1800 MHz spectrum in regional areas, extending the footprint of 4G networks.

However, Telstra isn't entirely pleased at the prospect. Currently, it's one of the largest users of the 1800 MHz band, running point-to-point microwave links to deliver voice services to remote communities.

The bands in question are 1725 – 1785 MHz and 1820 – 1880 MHz, and are currently used by companies operating apparatus licenses. If the reallocation goes ahead, the ACMA would hold an auction, and as well as mobile carriers, it expects interest from railways and resources companies.

The ACMA explains that the current apparatus licensing regime can't accommodate potential future applications like mobile services.

In 2011 the regulator put an embargo into place, issuing no new apparatus licenses while it ran a consultation over the 1800 MHz reallocation.

Maps in the ACMA discussion paper, linked here, show that while there's a fair number of point-to-point links that would need to move out of the band, they only cover a relatively small part of the whole geography the regulator has in mind for spectrum licenses.

1800 MHz spectrum use in Australia

Lots of empty space between the links - ACMA wants to auction the shaded areas

Telstra told the Sydney Morning Herald it's going to work with government “ensure remote communities do not face any service disruption as a result of spectrum reallocation.”

The ACMA hopes that spectrum licenses could commence in 2018, and it's possible that interim licenses could be issued ahead of that date if it's possible to avoid conflict with existing licensees.

The discussion paper, which also canvasses different options for a spectrum auction, is open for comment until 11 March, 2015. ®

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