Australian amateurs retain status at 5.8 GHz.

In July 2004, the Australian Communications Authority invited comments on a proposal to introduce apparatus licensing arrangements in the 5725-5825 MHz band that could allow greater opportunities for broadband wireless access services in regional and rural areas of Australia.
The comment period concluded on 25 August 2004.

The results of this ACA review have recently been announced, and represent a significant win for Australian amateur radio operators. Amateurs retain unencumbered access to the 5760 MHz band, which is currently used for
moon-bounce and other weak signal applications. A proposal to use the amateur allocation for commercial services was rejected by the ACA.

WIA Director Glenn Dunstan said "This highly successful outcome is the result of well researched professional submissions by the WIA. In addition, the Western Australian VHF Group Inc. and Mark Spooner also lodged submissions supporting the amateur position. "It is yet another example of the new National WIA working for the good of all Australian amateurs."

The ACA report may be found at the ACA web site

Source: Wireless Institute of Australia

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