Planning options in the upper 6 GHz band

We received 29 submissions to the consultation. You can access these below.

On 17 December 2024, we released the outcomes paper, which you can find in the key documents box above. This paper:

• explains our planning decisions for the upper 6 GHz band
• summarises the key issues raised in submissions
• outlines the next steps.  

As set out in our draft Five-year spectrum outlook 2024–29, there have been important international developments in the upper 6 GHz band (6425–7125 MHz). Many jurisdictions are introducing or considering the introduction of radio local area networks (RLANs) and/or wide-area wireless broadband (WA WBB) services in the band. The lower part of the band (5925–6425 MHz) has been made available for use by RLANs in Australia.

We want your views on planning options to possibly introduce RLANs and/or WA WBB services in the upper 6 GHz band in Australia. We are also seeking industry views on:

• the services proposed to be delivered using the upper 6 GHz band
• how the proposed services will benefit users
• the expected demand for those services.

We have set out the planning options in the consultation paper found in the key documents box above. 

The consultation paper also continues discussion about potential enhancements to existing RLAN arrangements in the broader 6 GHz band. This includes looking into issues related to the potential introduction of standard-power devices. 

To support our review of the upper 6 GHz band, we have placed a spectrum embargo on the band. This prohibits the issuing of new apparatus licences in the upper 6 GHz band. See Spectrum Embargo 81.

Due to a high level of demand from stakeholders, we have extended the closing date for submissions to 5 pm (AEST) on Tuesday 16 July 2024.