The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is exploring the use of Automatic Frequency Coordination (AFC) systems to authorize standard-power, outdoor Wi-Fi operations in the 6 GHz band. The move would open the 5925–6585 MHz range to broader wireless deployment while protecting incumbent services, including fixed microwave and satellite links.
Currently, Wi-Fi use in this band is restricted to low-power indoor (LPI) and very-low-power (VLP) applications under the Radiocommunications (Low Interference Potential Devices) Class Licence 2025. Standard-power use, defined internationally as up to 36 dBm (4W) EIRP is not yet permitted, limiting outdoor and regional connectivity. AFC systems are being considered to change that by coordinating real-time frequency access based on device location and environmental conditions.
What is AFC and How Could it Work in Australia?
AFC is a cloud-based, database-driven spectrum management system that enables devices to access available frequencies while avoiding interference with protected services. It uses real-time geolocation data and propagation models to dynamically assign permissible channels and power levels to registered devices. Devices must periodically revalidate their operational parameters to stay compliant.
In Australia, a trial of AFC is currently underway, coordinated by the Wireless Internet Service Providers Association of Australia (WISPAU) in partnership with Cambium Networks, Qualcomm, and participating WISPs. The trial uses GPS-enabled devices and simulates real-world operations, referencing ACMA’s Register of Radiocommunications Licences (RRL) for spectrum availability.
Regulatory Considerations for Licensing and Implementation
ACMA is seeking stakeholder feedback on several critical aspects of a potential AFC framework, including:
Whether to authorize individual devices via apparatus licenses or permit broader area-based licensing.
The appropriate roles for government and industry, with a preference for an industry-led implementation under ACMA-defined rules.
Technical requirements for AFC systems, including data integrity, geolocation accuracy, and database latency.
Whether ACMA’s existing spectrum management tools like the RRL are sufficient or require upgrades.
Models under consideration range from direct regulatory control with device-level licensing to decentralized, industry-operated systems similar to those used in the US and Canada. Each model presents trade-offs in terms of flexibility, administrative burden, and coordination effectiveness.
Tiered Access and Spectrum Planning
AFC systems are expected to operate under a tiered access model:
Tier 1: Incumbent licensed services (e.g., fixed links).
Tier 2: AFC-authorized standard-power devices.
Tier 3: LPI and VLP devices authorized under class licenses.
The ACMA is also evaluating whether the full 5925–6585 MHz range should be available for standard-power use or if sub-band segmentation should be introduced to support multiple use cases while maintaining interference protection.
Technical Compliance and Market Viability
Device compliance is a key concern, with requirements likely to include GPS functionality, firmware validation, and periodic revalidation intervals. The authority is considering certification processes to ensure only compliant devices connect to AFC systems.
ACMA also wants feedback on market viability how many AFC operators Australia could sustain, and what level of competition or risk of monopolization might arise.
For this article’s source information and any product certification guidance, please contact Global Validity.
Quick Country Facts
Australia
Certification Body: The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA)
Certification Type: Mandatory
License Validity: Indefinite
Application Language: English
Legal License Holder: Local Representative
In-Country Testing Requirement: Testing Not Required
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