The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has released a public discussion paper, inviting stakeholders to contribute to the future use of Australia's spectrum. The spectrum refers to the radio frequencies that facilitate communications over public airwaves, including mobile phone and internet services.

Many of the current 20-year spectrum licences issued to Australia's major telcos are set to expire between 2028 and 2032. This is the first time the ACMA has been responsible for considering the future of these licences that, under law, may be renewed, partially renewed or refused to be renewed.

The ACMA's paper seeks information from incumbents on their current and future use of this spectrum and from potential new users on alternative uses. The ACMA is also seeking views on the use of licence conditions that may improve efficiency and coverage to the benefit of all Australians.

ACMA authority member and spectrum lead, Adam Suckling, said the process had been started well in advance of the expiry dates given the critical importance of spectrum usage to "industry, the economy and the public".

"We are talking about very high value spectrum, ideal for facilitating 5G mobile internet and even 6G as we look ahead over the next decade and beyond. We are seeing new technologies and innovations on the horizon, such as network sharing models and satellite applications, that could boost competition nationally as well as improve network coverage in regional areas," said Suckling. "We recognise that this is not a 'greenfields' exercise with the use of some frequency bands for a particular service, such as wireless broadband, not in contention. However, with around three-quarters of long-term spectrum licences expiring, it is timely to consider whether there is potential to enhance competition and provide more choice for consumers."

Suckling said the licenses will significantly shape the future of Australia's telecommunications landscape, highlighting the importance of including many views in the decision-making process.

"As the ACMA works through this process, we will be guided by the public interest objectives of the Radiocommunications Act and ministerial policy statements. We will look at things such as whether the use of spectrum is efficient, promotes investment, coverage, innovation and enhances competition," he said.

The ACMA will release its preliminary views on long-term options for the relevant spectrum in late 2024.