Reminder: changes to 800 MHz trunked spectrum

The Australian Radio Communications Industry Association (ARCIA) has advised that if you or your clients have trunked radio systems operating on the 800 MHz spectrum (Motorola, Tetra or GE format), then they must change frequencies as part of the 850 MHz band plan presently being implemented.

Spectrum auctions have now been conducted for the band and it is essential that all existing systems have reallocation plans in process by end of June 2023. The spectrum is available for new licensees to utilise from 1 July 2024, so it is important that frequency changes are underway immediately.

Details are available in the ACMA’s long-term strategy for the 803–960 MHz band decision paper, published in November 2015. They are also reinforced in the latest version of the ACMA’s draft five-year spectrum outlook on page 43.

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