With the approaching analog TV switch off, unused broadcasting spectrums will be auctioned off.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has issued a discussion paper canvassing stakeholder and public views on getting the most from the 2.5GHz and 700MHz spectrums.

Currently employed by free-to-air television broadcasters for electronic news gathering (ENG), the spectrums could prove crucial in rolling out Australia’s 4G mobile broadband networks. The deployment of these networks would bring about many changes to the industry and significantly change marketer’s use of the channel.

We need to identify suitable long-term spectrum arrangements to support the essential ENG services, especially since there has been uncertainty about the long-term spectrum arrangements for ENG services, said ACMA chairman Chris Chapman.