Govt opens consultations on future of spectrum in Australia

The Department of Communications has released a consultation paper on the future management of spectrum in Australia and is seeking public comment.

The department says that the Spectrum Review Potential Reform Directions paper is the next stage in the review of the spectrum policy and management framework to determine the changes needed to serve Australia’s spectrum needs into the future.

It says that spectrum arrangements that are efficient, responsive and sustainable are critical to boosting future innovation and productivity.

The paper sets out reform principles and 11 reform proposals for stakeholders to consider and comment on, including introducing a single licensing framework for spectrum.

The paper also includes a proposal to improve the transparency and accountability in setting spectrum policy.

The proposals have been informed by stakeholder feedback on the Spectrum Review Issues Paper. Stakeholders have called for a simpler framework that provides greater efficiency and flexibility.

The Department of Communications is seeking stakeholder views on the proposals, including implementation issues and timeframes. The review is expected to report back in early 2015.

For more information about the directions paper and submissions, visit www.communications.gov.au/consultation_and_submissions/spectrum_review.

Submissions on the directions paper should be made to spectrumreview@communications.gov.au by 5 pm (AEDT) on 2 December 2014.