Spectrum arrangements in the 1.9 GHz frequency band (previously defined as 1880–1900 MHz) were developed to support the operation of cordless telecommunications services (CTS) (for example, cordless phones such as those using digital enhanced cordless telecommunications (DECT) technologies). The operation of these services are authorised under the Radiocommunications (Cordless Communications Devices) Class Licence.
To preserve the use of the 1.9 GHz frequency band for cordless telecommunications services, no new licences were issued for fixed point-to-point (PTP) links (which operated in the 1.9 GHz band at that time).
The spectrum arrangements for the 1.9 GHz frequency band originated in the 1.9 GHz Band Plan made in 1996. The 1.9 GHz Band Plan was allowed to sunset on 1 April 2023 and, as a result, PTP is now a primary service in regional and remote areas in the 1900–1920 MHz band.
Next steps
The ACMA plans to update arrangements for short range wireless broadband in the 1880–1900 MHz frequency range to allow for the next generation of DECT technologies: DECT evolution and DECT-2020 NR. These new technologies will be authorised to operate in the 1900–1920 MHz band under local area wireless broadband arrangements in regional and remote areas, and as indoor only applications in metropolitan areas.
The ACMA will also put in place arrangements in the 1900–1910 MHz frequency range for rail mobile radio (RMR) services, allowing transition from current RMR technology to 5G future railway mobile communication systems (FRMCS).
More information may be found on the Exploring future use of the 1.9 GHz band consultation page.
For further information on spectrum arrangements in the 1.9 GHz band, contact:
The Manager
Spectrum Engineering Section
PO Box 78
Belconnen
ACT, 2616