Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2024N00367:reg:7
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2024N00367
Segment Type: reg
Provision Reference: reg 7
Character Range: 8983–10431

7  Facilitating opportunities for new entrants and use cases, including for low earth orbit satellites

The Government supports the position expressed in the ACCC's submission in response to the ACMA's May 2023 Approach to expiring spectrum licences consultation, namely, that the ACMA should explore future arrangements that reduce the barriers to entry for new users of spectrum for either new use cases or existing uses, as a dynamic and competitive communications market is most likely to promote the public interest.
The expiring spectrum licence process represents a unique opportunity to re-examine current arrangements to ensure they promote the long-term public interest, and to create entry points for new or emerging users or use cases where appropriate. For example, the ACMA is already actively monitoring and engaging with spectrum matters related to low earth orbit satellites, and it should consider whether these technologies may contribute to maximising the long-term public interest, including how spectrum can improve connectivity in regional areas and support inter-operability between terrestrial services and satellite services.
Recognising the importance of the spectrum covered by the expiring spectrum licences to continuity of existing service coverage, the ACMA should consider where there may be scope to strengthen service offerings by enabling access for new entrants, smaller providers or innovative applications.