Telstra Heads Four Companies In Buying 5G Spectrum

Telstra has picked up the largest number of lots in the 5G spectrum auction organised by the Australian Communication and Media Authority in the 3.6 GHz band.

Australia’s biggest telco forked out a shade over $386 million to acquire 143 lots.All 350 lots available in the auction were sold for approximately $853 million, equivalent to about $0.29/MHz/pop.Mobile JV, a joint venture between subsidiaries of TPG Telecom and Vodafone Hutchison Australia, picked up 131 lots for $263 million.Optus Mobile bought 47 lots for $185 million while Dense Air Australia was the fourth company to buy up spectrum, paying $18.5 million for 29 lots.

Telstra chief executive Andrew Penn said in a statement: “…we have secured between 30-80 MHz nationwide in the 3.6 GHz spectrum auction. The 3.6 GHz spectrum is important as it is to be used globally for 5G.

“This investment of $386 million will support our national 5G rollout, and adds to the momentum we are building to bring 5G services to Australians in both cities and regional areas in the new year.

“Combined with existing holdings, Telstra now has 60 MHz of contiguous 5G spectrum in all major capital cities and between 50-80 MHz of contiguous 5G spectrum in all regional areas.”

Licences won at auction will commence in March 2020 and extend until 13 December 2030. But earlier access to the band could be enabled, provided that no interference is caused to existing licensees.

“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 in a statement.

“The ACMA designed an auction process — including starting prices — that aimed to maximise efficiency, competitive outcomes and the full utility of this spectrum for 5G. We consider these goals have been reflected in the auction outcome.

“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.” – ITWire