The Australian Communications & Media Authority (ACMA) has awarded spectrum in the 3.6GHz band to four operators.
Background: The ACMA has been particularly active in awarding 5G spectrum over the last twelve months. Following awards in the 2.3–2.4GHz and 3.4–3.6GHz band in December 2017, it set out plans for awards in the 3.6–3.8GHz bands in Q3 2018.
What’s new? The auction is now complete, and raised about AUD853m (USD614.5m), i.e. circa AUD0.29/MHz/pop. All the 350 lots available across 14 regions were awarded; Telstra secured 143 for about AUD386m, followed by Mobile JV (a joint venture of Vodafone and TPG) with 131 lots for AUD 263.3m. Optus won 47 lots for AUD185m, and Dense Air obtained 29 for AUD18.5m.
When will this spectrum be available? These licences will commence in March 2020, and last a little more than 10 years until December 2030. However, MNOs can have earlier access to the band, provided that no interference is caused to existing licensees.
