Service categories
The service categories under the BSA are:
- commercial broadcasting
- community broadcasting
- subscription broadcasting
- subscription narrowcasting
- open narrowcasting
- international broadcasting
What we consider when reviewing applications:
- the geographic coverage of the service
- the number of persons who receive or are able to receive the service
- the accessibility of the service
- the duration and frequency of the provision of the service
- the nature of the audience to which the service is targeted
- the nature of the programs being provided by the service
An opinion is binding for a minimum of 5 years—as long as the service stays the same. If the service changes from the original application, the opinion is no longer valid.
Publication of opinions
We must publish an opinion in the Government Notices Gazette. The opinion may not be published until the service has begun operation.
Recent opinions
| Location of service | Service category determined | Description of service | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | |||
| Crocmedia Pty Ltd | Adelaide, SA | Commercial broadcasting service | SEN SA |
View previous radio and TV opinions.
Apply for an opinion
The ACMA charges an applicant for preparing a section 21 opinion.
Category of service opinions are complex in nature and take considerable time to prepare. The charge will depend on the amount of work required to prepare an opinion. The previous flat fee of $15,150 is no longer the guaranteed charge.
Charges are calculated at an hourly rate, which is currently $239 per hour, or part thereof. The final charge is calculated and invoice issued after the ACMA has finished preparing its opinion.
Please contact the ACMA if you would like to seek a section 21 opinion and complete an application form.
Access to the broadcasting services bands of the radiofrequency spectrum
Opinions that we provide do not permit or imply that the subject of the opinion is entitled to access the broadcasting spectrum.
If you want to use broadcasting services bands spectrum you must have a licence to use the spectrum. If you do not already have a licence, contact us before submitting your application.