ACMA proposes new measures for 400 MHz band

On Thursday the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) announced a number of proposals for future spectrum arrangements in the 400MHz band, including a harmonised band for government use and measures to allow more efficient use of this spectrum.

The proposed harmonised government band and more efficient use of the spectrum are two of the initiatives outlined in ACMA’s discussion paper Spectrum Proposals: 403-520 MHz – Proposals for future arrangements in the 400 MHz band.

‘The identification of the sub-band 403-430 MHz for exclusive government use provides an opportunity for significant advances towards genuine interoperability,’ said Chris Chapman, ACMA Chairman.

‘The 400 MHz band is heavily used and congested in a number of areas, creating a shortage of land mobile licences in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. By reviewing the band, ACMA hopes to allow more people to use this spectrum, thereby maximising the overall public benefit derived from its use’, said Mr Chapman.

Radio Amateurs in Australia have access to 420-450 MHz, although there are restrictions in certain states.

It is understood that land mobile users currently use 25 kHz channel spacing FM instead of more efficient modes such as NXDN 6.25 kHz channel spacing Digital Voice available for VHF and UHF from ICOM and Kenwood. The migration of Land Mobile users to 6.25 kHz channels could alleviate the apparent congestion in urban areas without the need for additional spectrum.

ACMA proposes new measures for 400 MHz band
http://www.acma.gov.au/WEB/STANDARD/pc=PC_311699

ACMA Spectrum Proposals: 403-520 MHz
http://www.acma.gov.au/WEB/STANDARD/pc=PC_311684

NXDN - 6.25 kHz Spacing PMR Digital Voice
http://www.southgatearc.org/news/october2008/
pmr_digital_voice.htm

The Gadget Show tests digital and analog walkie talkies
http://www.southgatearc.org/news/november2008/
gadget_show_radio_tests.htm