14 July 2010
Spectrum released to improve mobile telecommunications in regional and remote Australia
The Australian Communications and Media Authority has received applications for additional spectrum for mobile telecommunications services at hundreds of sites throughout regional and remote Australia. In the first round of licensing, the ACMA will issue licences to Optus for 972 sites.
The ACMA invited applications for radiocommunications licences in the 2 GHz band during May 2010. The 2 GHz band is used by mobile carriers to provide third generation (3G) mobile services.
‘I am delighted by the high level of demand from industry for additional spectrum in the 2 GHz band in regional and remote Australia,’ said ACMA Chairman, Chris Chapman.
‘It is encouraging to see industry participants take advantage of the release of this spectrum by the ACMA to improve the mobile telecommunications services available to regional Australia.’
A second round of licensing will occur after assessment of Telstra’s application for multiple sites has been completed.
The release of spectrum for these services follows interest expressed by industry in obtaining additional spectrum in regional and remote areas of Australia.
The number of sites applied for by both Optus and Telstra should lead to a significant increase in the availability of 3G mobile phone services in regional and remote Australia.
For more information or to arrange an interview please contact: Donald Robertson, Media Manager, on (02) 9334 7980, 0418 86 1766 or media@acma.gov.au.
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The ACMA is Australia’s regulator for broadcasting, the internet, radiocommunications and telecommunications. The ACMA’s strategic intent is to make communications and media work in Australia’s public interest. For more information: www.acma.gov.au.
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