A fairer future: RSM's fees review and what it means for NZ’s radio comms sector

New Zealand’s radio communications industry has long been the envy of many countries thanks to its streamlined and accessible licensing regime. Our comparatively simple system, which offers clarity and efficiency to licence holders, is a key part of why communications infrastructure continues to thrive across sectors — from public safety and utilities to commercial operators and hobbyists alike.

This year, the industry is closely watching the outcome of the Radio Spectrum Management (RSM) fees review — the first in over a decade. As technology and the nature of spectrum use have evolved, so too must the framework that supports it. RSM’s comprehensive review has aimed to modernise the fee structures associated with radio licensing, ensuring they reflect the true cost of managing this vital resource while remaining fair and sustainable for users across the board.

What sets New Zealand apart in this process is not just the openness of its licensing system, but the collaborative approach being taken throughout the review. RSM’s willingness to engage with industry stakeholders — to genuinely listen and respond to feedback — has been commendable. The communications sector is no stranger to top-down policy changes, but in this case, licence holders have had a seat at the table, ensuring their voices are heard in shaping a fairer and more forward-thinking framework.

One of the more underappreciated factors contributing to the current affordability of radio licences in New Zealand is the investment in modern administrative tools — notably, the Register of Radio Frequencies (RRF). By digitising and automating many spectrum management processes, tools like the RRF have helped keep operational costs low, streamlining compliance and freeing up resources for more impactful work. In essence, by investing wisely in technology today, they ensure a more cost-effective system tomorrow. Another key player in the conversation has been the Radio Frequency Users Association of New Zealand (RFUANZ). The association’s detailed and well-researched submission reflects a deep understanding of both the technical and practical realities of operating in this space.

RFUANZ has acted as a diligent advocate for its members and the broader radio community, helping to ensure that any changes introduced do not unintentionally disadvantage smaller or rural operators, who rely on consistent and affordable access to radio spectrum.

As we await the final outcomes of the review, there is cautious optimism across the sector. The hope is that the updated fee structure will reflect modern realities while continuing to support the open, accessible system we all benefit from today. It’s a balancing act — maintaining affordability, encouraging investment, and covering the real costs of managing spectrum — but with RSM’s consultative approach, there is confidence that a fair solution is within reach.

In an industry built on clear and reliable communication, it’s only fitting that our regulatory bodies operate with the same ethos. New Zealand is fortunate to have a system where stakeholders are not only heard but valued. As the spectrum landscape continues to evolve, that collaborative spirit will be essential in ensuring our radio communications framework remains both effective and equitable well into the future.

Image credit: iStock.com/enjoynz