ACMA enhances spectrum auction capabilities

The ACMA has signed a multiyear contract with Power Auctions for the provision of software for conducting spectrum auctions.

The first use of Power Auctions’ software is expected to be for the upcoming auction of the regional 1800 MHz spectrum, scheduled to commence in late November this year.

According to the ACMA, the auction should facilitate the expansion of 4G mobile broadband services in regional Australia, leading to better mobile services and more choice for regional Australians.

Power Auctions is a global company headquartered in Washington, DC, which specialises in providing software and consulting services for online high-stakes auctions. Power Auctions provided the combinatorial clock auction (CCA) capability to the ACMA for the $2 billion digital dividend auction in April 2013.

“I am really pleased that the ACMA and Power Auctions will continue our great working relationship,” said ACMA Chairman Chris Chapman.

“The newly acquired spectrum auction software will better enable the ACMA to conduct auctions of highly valued radiofrequency spectrum, which will ultimately benefit Australian industry and consumers to access new technologies and services.”

The contract with Power Auctions provides the ACMA with the ongoing capacity to conduct online spectrum auctions at short notice, using either the English open outcry or simultaneous multiple-round ascending (SMRA) auction methodology.

There is also an option to procure other flexible and innovative auction designs if required by the ACMA.