Technical framework for renewed 850 MHz and 1800 MHz band spectrum licences

We received 4 submissions to this consultation, which you can view below. 

After considering the submissions, we have finished our review of the 850 MHz and 1800 MHz band spectrum licence technical frameworks that will apply for renewed spectrum licences. You can view the sample spectrum licences, as well as information on the renewal process, on our Application guide and renewal application form page. 

You can find a summary of the submissions and our responses in the outcomes paper above. 

We are aiming to release a consultation paper on the proposed apparatus licences arrangements to support rail use of the 1800 MHz band, post spectrum licence expiry, before the end of Q2 2026.

The 850 MHz and 1800 MHz band spectrum licences will expire in June 2028. The application period for their renewal starts in June 2026. 

We want your feedback on the proposed technical framework for renewed 850 MHz and 1800 MHz band spectrum licences. 

The proposed technical framework is detailed in the consultation paper.

The paper also sets out our initial views on an apparatus licence framework to support rail services in the 1800 MHz band. This will apply after spectrum licences expire in June 2028.

Due to stakeholder requests, we have extended the closing date of the consultation from 20 March 2026 to 5 pm (AEDT) on 27 March 2026.