The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) released an options paper in June 2024, seeking input on how best to utilize the upper 6 GHz band (6425–7125 MHz) for Radio Local Area Network (RLAN) and Wide-Area Wireless Broadband (WA WBB) services. The paper presented four potential planning approaches and the subsequent decision on what to do with the upper 6GHz band.
Overview of the Planning Options
- Option 1: Maintain Existing Arrangements
- Keep the current frequency use unchanged, with a possible review in the future.
- Option 2: Enable RLAN Access
- Introduce arrangements for RLAN use across part or all of the upper 6 GHz band through an update to the LIPD class licence.
- Excludes any arrangements for WA WBB services.
- Option 3: Enable WA WBB Access
- Introduce arrangements for WA WBB use across part or all of the band via apparatus licensing or spectrum licensing.
- Excludes any arrangements for RLAN services.
- Option 4: Hybrid Approach
- Combine RLAN and WA WBB access, dividing the band into separate segments for each service.
- RLAN services would operate under the LIPD class license, while WA WBB would require apparatus or spectrum licensing in specific areas.
ACMA’s Decision on the Upper 6 GHz Band
After reviewing submissions from stakeholders, ACMA selected Option 4 (Hybrid Approach) as the best planning arrangement, offering significant economic and public benefits while addressing the diverse needs of RLAN and WA WBB services.
- RLAN Access (6425–6585 MHz):
- Allocated for RLAN use via the LIPD class licence.
- Supports expanded Wi-Fi capabilities, including 2 x 320 MHz or 4 x 160 MHz channels.
- Arrangements will take effect as part of the LIPD class licence remake, planned before its sunset date in October 2025.
- WA WBB Access (6585–7100 MHz):
- Reserved for WA WBB use in defined metropolitan and regional centers, pending sufficient international equipment market development.
- Outside these areas, the band will support apparatus-licensed WBB services coordinated with existing services.
Next Steps for Implementation
ACMA has outlined the following actions to implement the hybrid plan:
- RLAN Implementation:
- Begin consultation on updating the LIPD class licence in early 2025.
- Expand Wi-Fi capabilities with minimal interference to existing services.
- WA WBB Planning:
- Identify and consult on “defined population areas” for WA WBB deployment.
- Monitor international developments, particularly the progress of equipment markets and regulatory decisions from CEPT and other regions.
- Apparatus Licensing:
- Explore coordinated WBB access in 6585–7100 MHz outside defined areas to support private networks, wireless internet service providers, and local WBB deployments.
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: Available with Access Manager
In-Country Testing Requirement: Available with Access Manager
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