Feedback sought on proposed lot configuration—700 MHz and 2.5 GHz bands
The ACMA has formed a proposed approach to lot configuration in the 700 MHz and 2.5 GHz bands for the digital dividend auction. This approach has been informed by responses to informal consultation on this issue in November 2011.
The ACMA is now seeking further feedback on the details of this approach, including the location of proposed market areas for the 2.5 GHz band. There will be another opportunity to provide feedback as part of the formal consultation process on the draft allocation instruments, which is expected to take place in March–April 2012.
Full details about this issue for comment can be found on the ACMA's Digital Dividend website.
Publication of submissions
In general, the ACMA publishes all submissions that it receives. However, the ACMA will not publish submissions that it considers contain defamatory or irrelevant material.
The ACMA prefers to receive submissions over which confidentiality is not claimed. However, the ACMA accepts that a submitter may sometimes wish to provide information in confidence. In these circumstances, submitters are asked to identify the material over which confidentiality is claimed and provide a written explanation for the confidentiality claim.
The ACMA will consider each claim for confidentiality on a case-by-case basis. If the ACMA accepts a confidentiality claim, it will not publish the confidential information unless required or authorised by law.
Release of information in submissions
Any submissions provided to the ACMA may be released under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth). The ACMA may also be required to release submissions for other reasons including for the purpose of parliamentary processes or where otherwise required by law (for example, a court subpoena). While the ACMA seeks to consult, and where required by law will consult, with submitters of confidential information before that information is provided to another party, the ACMA cannot guarantee that confidential information will not be released through these or other legal means.
Sharing of information
Under the Australian Communications and Media Authority Act 2005, the ACMA may disclose certain information to the Minister, the Department (including authorised officials), Royal Commissions, the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman, certain Commonwealth authorities such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission and Australian Securities and Investments Commission, and the authority of a foreign country responsible for regulating matters relating to communications or media.
