By Julius Ewudo, AEAN Region Representative

Four companies have won spectrum in the Australian Communications and Media Authority’s (ACMA) 3.4/3.7 GHz bands spectrum allocation process.

Of 588 lots available, 574 were allocated to bidders. The allocation realised total revenue to the Commonwealth of $721,766,300.

• Mobile JV Pty Ltd won 44 lots of spectrum for $128,194,100.
• NBN Co Pty Ltd won 200 lots of spectrum for $14,384,600. 
• Optus Mobile Pty Ltd won 4 lots of spectrum for $33,539,600.
• Telstra Ltd won 326 lots of spectrum for $545,648,000.

“The outcomes of the allocation process align strongly with our objectives,” said ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin.

“The allocation of this spectrum will support digital connectivity, promote competition and facilitate investment in new services for Australian consumers and businesses across metropolitan and regional areas of Australia.

This type of spectrum is important for the deployment of innovative technologies and has a wide range of uses, including the deployment of 5G services.

“The revenue raised reflects the market value placed on this spectrum as a valuable public asset,” Ms O’Loughlin said.

The licences issued will come into force shortly, with the 3.4 GHz band licences expiring in December 2030 and the 3.7 GHz band licences expiring in January 2044.

This allocation process forms one in a suite of mid-band allocations undertaken by the ACMA to accommodate a range of users. The ACMA also recently completed the allocation of mid-band spectrum for use in remote areas of Australia.