Spectrum arrangements in the 1.9 GHz frequency band have been developed to support the operation of cordless telecommunications services (CTS) (for example cordless phones such as those using DECT technologies). The operation of these services are authorised under the Radiocommunications (Cordless Communications Devices) Class Licence.
To preserve the utility of the 1.9 GHz frequency band for use by cordless telecommunications services no new licences for other services will be authorised to operate in the 1880 to 1900 MHz frequency range.
The spectrum arrangements for the 1.9 GHz frequency band have their origin in 1.9 GHz Band Plan made in 1996 to support the introduction of cordless telecommunications services in Australia. The band plan was made following earlier work by ACMA predecessor organisations (AUSTEL and SMA) in considering of requests from industry to support DECT in Australia.
The purpose of the 1.9 GHz band plan when made was to allow the operation of cordless telecommunications services as well ensure that no new licences were issued for fixed point-to-point links (which operated in the 1.9 GHz band at that time).
The introduction of spectrum licences in the 1.8 GHz and 2.1 GHz frequency bands resulted in most fixed links being cleared from the 1.9 GHz band. While there are some fixed point-to-point links remaining in the 1.9 GHz band in regional and remote areas, they do not affect the operation of cordless telecommunications services and under the spectrum arrangements for the band no further licences are allowed.
For further information on spectrum arrangements in the 1.9 GHz band, contact:
The Manager
Spectrum Engineering Section
PO Box 78
Belconnen
ACT, 2616