Satellite direct-to-mobile services: regulatory issues

After considering issues raised in consultation submissions, we confirm that International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT)-based satellite direct-to-mobile services can be operated under Australia-wide spectrum licences without the need for further approval from the ACMA. 

Other outcomes from our consultation and submissions received include:

• we have published regulatory guidance for operators of IMT satellite direct-to-mobile services 
• we will engage in the WRC-27 study cycle for agenda item 1.13 as necessary, noting that the Department leads the development of Australian positions on WRC agenda items
• we will continue to investigate radio astronomy concerns and encourage ongoing discussion between relevant parties
• we will keep engaging with relevant parties about supporting satellite-based IoT services (space station transmitters) in bands authorised by the LIPD Class Licence to determine a way forward
• there may be other regulatory obligations for operators of satellite direct-to-mobile services, including telecommunications carrier licensing requirements and emergency call services obligations.

Our response to submissions paper (available under ‘Key documents’) contains full details of the main issues raised by consultation respondents. We thank all respondants.

In our Five-year spectrum outlook 2023–28 (FYSO), we provided information on arrangements and potential issues with:

• satellite direct-to-mobile services
• other satellite use of bands without a satellite allocation. 

We also committed to further engaging with industry on the issue.

As part of this work, we held an online spectrum tune-up on 31 October 2023 where we:

• discussed whether the regulatory environment for satellite direct-to-mobile services is fit-for-purpose
• heard from interested parties
• provided an opportunity to discuss potential issues and solutions.

We now invite your submissions on the issues raised in the FYSO and at the tune-up.