ACMA 5G auction ends

ACMA’s 5G auction in Australia has now concluded, with four companies winning spectrum in the 3.6 GHz band.

“This spectrum is recognised internationally as a key band for 5G services. Timely release of 5G-compatible spectrum will facilitate the early delivery of next-generation 5G services to the Australian public and industry,” said ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin.

All 350 lots available in the auction were sold, realising total revenue of approximately $853 million, equivalent to almost $0.29/MHz/pop.

• Dense Air Australia Pty Ltd won 29 lots for $18,492,000.
• Mobile JV Pty Limited (a joint venture arrangement between subsidiaries of TPG Telecom Limited and Vodafone Hutchison Australia Pty Limited) won 131 lots for $263,283,800.
• Optus Mobile Pty Ltd won 47 lots for $185,069,100.
• Telstra Corporation Limited won 143 lots for $386,008,400.
   

“The ACMA designed an auction process — including starting prices — that aimed to maximise efficiency, competitive outcomes and the full utility of this spectrum for 5G. We consider these goals have been reflected in the auction outcome,’ O’Loughlin said.

Licences won at auction will commence in March 2020 and will extend until 13 December 2030. However, arrangements exist to enable earlier access to the band, provided that no interference is caused to existing licensees.

“Existing licensees have generally been provided an extended period in which they can continue to use this band. During this period, their rights are protected,” O’Loughlin said.

View the auction results in each of the 14 regions in the auction.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/photon_photo

Please follow us and share on Twitter and Facebook. You can also subscribe for FREE to our weekly newsletter and bimonthly magazine.