9 cm Amateur Band May be in Jeopardy From ACMA 3.5 GHz Review

The 9 cm amateur band at 3300-3600 MHz may be in danger of losing some segments following a review of arrangements in the 3400-3600 MHz band just announced by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). The ACMA is seeking comments on possible future licensing arrangements in the 3.5 GHz band, set out in its consultation paper titled "Transitioning the 3.5 GHz band for future opportunities".

At present, 3400-3600 MHz has various segments allocated to primary users through a mix of apparatus and spectrum licences. Amateur use of 3300-3600 MHz is on a secondary basis. The ACMA says that use of the 3400-3600 MHz band overseas appears to be changing, and this is starting to put pressure on current Australian allocations. As applications for microwave communications technology is changing, a clear picture is yet to emerge of future applications in Australia.

According to its website, "the ACMA’s response to the complexity and growing pressures associated with the 3.5 GHz band is to look at implementing new arrangements that will maximise the band’s future flexibility."

The WIA is compiling a submission to respond to the ACMA’s consultation paper and, to that end, is seeking input from all interested Australian amateurs, which can be mailed or faxed to the National Office, or emailed to: nationaloffice@wia.org.au, to reach us by or before close of business Monday, 21 July.

The WIA also encourages all interested Australian amateurs to send your own submissions to the ACMA, which need to reach it by Wednesday, 30 July.

The ACMA’s announcement is on its website at this Link

The WIA bandplan for the 9 cm amateur band is at this Link

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