Independent Review – Australian Communications and Media Authority
On 15 January 2021, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) announced the outcome of a review into the use of the 2GHz spectrum band (1980-2010 and 2170-2300 MHz).
The ACMA instituted a review of the 2GHz band following increasing interest for new applications including mobile satellite services (MSS), wireless broadband and direct air-to-ground communications. The band is used for television outside broadcast (TOB) services on a shared and non-exclusive basis for short-term applications such as covering special events. After preparing a discussion and options paper and consulting with stakeholders, the ACMA concluded that arrangements in the band should be changed to better maximise the overall public benefits derived from its use.
Consistent with the Government’s Regulation Impact Statement (RIS) requirements, the Planning of the 2GHz band discussion, option and outcome papers have been certified by the ACMA as meeting the requirements of a RIS. The Office of Best Practice Regulation (OBPR) does not assess the quality of independent reviews and RIS-like documents used in lieu of a RIS, but does assess whether the options analysed in the independent review are relevant to the regulatory proposal. The OBPR assessed that the options analysed in the independent review are sufficiently relevant to the regulatory proposal.
The agency estimates the average annual regulatory costs at between $110,000 and $190,000.