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Challenge to Australian 70cm Band Spectrum
Date :
02 /
04 /
2009
Author :
Peter Young - VK3MV
Today the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) released its initial consultation paper for future arrangements in the 400 MHz spectrum between 420 and 520 MHz. This paper follows on from a previous discussion paper on spectrum options for this band. Of interest was the spectrum 440 MHz to 450 MHz where the Defence Department is the Primary User and the Amateur Service is a Secondary User. The WIA made a submission arguing for its continued use of the spectrum for UHF links in support of emergency services networks, and an Amateur Television Channel for the purposes of future training options particularly digital television.
Copies of the latest consultation paper can be found on the ACMA website by clicking the following Link
The consultation paper seeks comments to 31 questions; of particular interest to the amateur community are the questions:
 ACMA seeks comments on the option of identifying parts of the 400 MHz band for low power single frequency applications under a class licence;
ACMA seeks comments on the existing and potential defence uses of the 440 – 450 MHz band;
ACMA seeks comments on the possibility of opening up some or all of the 440 – 450 MHz band for greater use by the land mobile service for purposes other than defence
The WIA arguments for this spectrum have largely been ignored at this particular time. The WIA will continue to press its case through further submission(s) and representation on the ACMA 400 MHz Working Group.
The closing date for comments is Friday 29th May 2009
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