Submissions of interest closed for ACMA review of 1.5 GHz band

Growing interest in the 1427–1518 MHz, 1518–1525 MHz and 1668–1675 MHz frequency ranges (1.5 GHz band), to provide support for new wireless broadband (WBB) and mobile-satellite services (MSS), consequently led to the Australian Communications and Media Authority (AMCA) deciding to review the band. Submissions of interest closed on the 10th of June.

A range of spectrum uses currently support the 1.5 GHz band, including: applications in the mobile (aeronautical mobile), fixed (both point-to-point and point-multipoint), radio astronomy, and meteorological satellite services. Both domestically and internationally, there is increasing demand for spectrum to support WBB services. Inmarsat also announced plans to launch satellites in 2022 that will support MSS use in the 1518–1525 MHz and 1668–1675 MHz frequency ranges in the Asia–Pacific region. Consequently, there is interest also from the satellite industry to review arrangements in those frequency ranges.

ACMA welcomed responses from interested stakeholders, along with comments on specific questions including:

• Are there any international arrangements or technology trends that the ACMA should be aware of?
• What is the demand for access to the 1.5 GHz band for WBB, MSS and broadcasting services?
• Are there any other new services that should be considered?
• What are the ongoing requirements for incumbent services in the 1.5 GHz band?
• Are there any viable alternative options?
• What planning scenarios should be considered in the 1.5 GHz band?
   

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