Proposed deeming principles for regional radio licence areas - consultation 18/2020

We carefully considered the submissions we received. Our analysis showed that with the relevant regional markets there are case-specific considerations we need to assess when deciding whether a community licence area will be deemed under subsection 8AD(3) of the Broadcasting Services Act. Therefore, we have decided not to adopt any principles at this time.

Community radio broadcasting licensees need access to digital multiplex capacity to transmit digital services under the current legislation for digital radio.

We are proposing to adopt a set of principles to guide the ACMA’s deeming powers for community radio licence areas in regional Australia.

The proposed principles are not intended to be binding on the ACMA but represent a statement of disposition.

We are seeking comments on the three proposed overarching principles that we intend to apply when considering whether to deem a community licence area under subsection 8AD(3) of the BSA. We also welcome comments on any other issues relevant to license area deeming for digital radio in regional Australia.