Call for Satellite and Mobile Services to Share Scarce Spectrum
Sydney, 21 May 2018 – More flexible and innovative approaches are needed in Australia to allow 5G mobile services and satellite-based services to co-exist, according to the nation’s communications satellite sector.
The Satellite Services Working Group (SSWG) of Australian Telecommunications Alliance, in a Discussion Paper released today, calls for debate between Government, Regulators, Industry and other stakeholders on the future of satellite services in today’s increasingly spectrum-scarce environment.
Already some satellite systems and space operation facilities are unable to effectively operate in Australia due to the nature of licensing conditions here, the group warns.
The SSWG is a group of 20 companies active in the Australian satellite market, including satellite operators, service providers and ground-segment specialists (membership list attached).
Australia’s commercial space operations account for approximately 75% of the nation’s space market – worth almost $4 billion in 2015-16 – according to estimates published by the Federal Government’s recent review of Australia’s Space Industry Capability.
The Discussion Paper examines the approaches being taken in the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and some regulatory regimes around the world to enable terrestrial mobile services and satellite services to share the spectrum in specified frequency bands where this is technically feasible.
It contrasts this with the “single service” spectrum licensing often used in Australia, which normally precludes the co-existence of other types of services and cites examples of recent local spectrum decisions that have disadvantaged the satellite sector.
While recognising the importance of making spectrum available for mobile services, the paper sets out recommendations for the ACMA in the 40 to 42 GHz, 48.2 to 50.2GHz and 2GHz frequency bands and urges the regulator to take a “more holistic” view of spectrum management, to maximise the spectrum available for all classes of services, including mobile.
The paper does not purport to represent the views of all Members of Australian Telecommunications Alliance, including those from Telstra as a member of the SSWG.
ABOUT COMMUNICATIONS ALLIANCE
Australian Telecommunications Alliance is the primary communications industry body in Australia. Its membership is drawn from a wide cross-section of the communications industry, including carriers, carriage and internet service providers, content providers, platform providers, equipment vendors, IT companies, consultants and business groups.
Its vision is to be the most influential association in Australian communications, co-operatively initiating programs that promote sustainable industry development, innovation and growth, while generating positive outcomes for customers and society.
The prime mission of Australian Telecommunications Alliance is to create a co-operative stakeholder environment that allows the industry to take the lead on initiatives which grow the Australian communications industry, enhance the connectivity of all Australians and foster the highest standards of business behaviour.
Media information contact:
info@austelco.org.au
