ACMA releases 3.6 GHz 5G auction details

The ACMA has released details of the upcoming auction of spectrum in the 3.6 GHz band, recognised internationally as the first band for 5G services.

“As a key enabler of the digital economy, the 3.6 GHz spectrum will ensure Australia is well placed to realise the benefits of 5G. Timely release of 5G-compatible spectrum will facilitate the early delivery of next-generation 5G services to the Australian public and industry,” said ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin.

“The ACMA has designed an auction process — including starting prices — that aims to maximise efficiency, competitive outcomes and the full utility of this spectrum for 5G,” said O’Loughlin.

Key parameters for the auction are:

• Spectrum — 125 MHz of spectrum in the 3.6 GHz band.
• Lots on offer — 350 lots across 14 regions of Australia.
• Application fee — $10,000 (non-refundable).
• Starting (reserve) price (metro) — $0.08/MHz/pop (excluding Perth lower lots), $0.053/MHz/pop Perth lower lots.
• Starting (reserve) price (regional) — $0.03/MHz/pop.
• Commencement date — late November 2018.
• Format — enhanced simultaneous multiround ascending with software developed by Power Auctions.
   

The Minister for Communications, Senator the Hon Mitch Fifield, has previously directed the ACMA on the maximum amount of spectrum a single bidder can acquire at auction (60 MHz in urban markets and 80 MHz in regional areas).

To help bidders prepare for the auction, the ACMA has released an applicant information package that sets out key auction information. Parties wishing to participate in the auction must lodge their application by 31 August 2018.

Image courtesy NIST.

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Originally published here.