Residual spectrum to be sold at competitive auction

The multiband residual lots auction, scheduled to take place in late 2017, will include spectrum in the 1800 MHz, 2 GHz, 2.3 GHz and 3.4 GHz bands.

The Government will follow advice from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and lift existing allocation limits in the 2 GHz band to allow all interested parties to bid for residual spectrum in the band. Existing allocation limits for the 1800 MHz band will be retained and no allocations limits will apply in the 2, 2.3 GHz and 3.4 GHz bands.

The auction will encourage competition and enable all currently unused spectrum in relevant bands to be licensed under the current legislative framework. It will also help with a smooth transition to the new licensing framework proposed by the Radiocommunications Bill 2017.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority will conduct a single auction process for all bands on behalf of the Government.

Find out more:

• Minister’s direction
• ACCC’s advice
• View Minister Fifield media release