Wireless microphone regulation changes

A discussion paper is now available for submissions to proposed regulatory changes to address the supply of wireless audio transmitters, including wireless microphones that operate in the digital dividend frequencies (694-820 MHz).

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) recently announced changes to the frequency ranges that can be used for wireless audio transmitters. The proposals in the discussion paper are but the next step in ACMA’s ongoing support of the transition of wireless audio transmitters from the digital dividend frequencies by 31 December 2014.

Recent changes to the Radiocommunications (Low Interference Potential Devices) Class Licence 2000 mean that after 31 December 2014, wireless audio transmitters will no longer be authorised to operate in the digital dividend frequencies.

The proposed legislative amendments will require affected Australian manufacturers and importers to include information that the transmitters cannot be operated in the 694-820 MHz frequency range after 31 December 2014 and to cease supplying the relevant wireless audio transmitters within three months of the publication of the revision to the technical standard.

The proposed changes are intended to encourage manufacturers and importers of wireless audio equipment to offer equipment that is operable after 31 December 2014 to the Australian market. Critically, they also provide support for informed purchase decisions by consumers looking to buy wireless audio devices.

ACMA is encouraging all interested parties to make a submission to the paper before 9 July 2013. Industry and users of wireless microphones can keep up to date with changes over the next 18 months by subscribing to ACMA’s wireless microphones e-bulletin.

Further information on new arrangements for wireless microphones is available here.