Telstra, Optus, TPG-Vodafone win 5G spectrum

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has announced the results of its 5G spectrum auction, with Telstra winning the most lots in the 3.6GHz band. In total, Telstra paid AU$386,008,400 for 143 lots; the TPG-Vodafone Australia joint venture Mobile JV paid the next most, at AU$263,283,800 for 131 lots; Optus paid AU$185,069,100 for 47 lots; and Dense Air Australia paid AU$18,492,000 for 29 lots. “This spectrum is recognised internationally as a key band for 5G services. Timely release of 5G-compatible spectrum will facilitate the early delivery of next generation 5G services to the Australian public and industry," ACMA Chair Nerida O'Loughlin said on Monday morning. The ACMA made AU$853 million from the spectrum auction, the equivalent of around AU$0.29/MHz/pop. The 3.6GHz spectrum licences will commence in March 2020, but carriers can access them earlier, and will continue until December 13, 2030."Existing licensees have generally been provided an extended period in which they can continue to use this band. During this period, their rights are protected," O'Loughlin added. Telstra CEO Andy Penn pointed to his telco's early 5G launches across the nation, saying Telstra will continue leading in 5G."This is an extremely significant moment for Telstra and as we set out last week at our Investor Day, 5G will bring enormous opportunities for growth. This is also a significant investment in the nation's future connectivity, including large holding of regional spectrum, demonstrating our continued commitment to bring the latest technology to Australians in regional areas," Penn said. “Telstra is leading the way in working with suppliers and international standard bodies to develop the 5G ecosystem. This will enable us to provide the data, connectivity, low latency, and speed necessary to enable new products and services ... we are very pleased with the outcome of the auction."