Conroy sets spectrum renewal prices

in brief Communications Minister Stephen Conroy has directed the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) to adopt the prices suggested in an analyst report for 800MHz and 1800GHz spectrum renewal. The sale is set to bring in $3 billion in government revenue over the next four years.

As outlined in the Plum Consulting report late last year, Conroy has directed the ACMA to charge the telcos $1.46 per MHz per person for spectrum in the 800MHz and $0.23 per MHz per person for 1800MHz spectrum.

Telstra, Optus, Vividwireless and Vodafone are expected to pay the government a combined $3 billion over the next four years to renew these licences, which will go a long way to bring the Federal Government's budget back into surplus.

"This renewal process will ensure an appropriate financial return to the taxpayer, while providing certainty to industry and consumers," Conroy said in a statement. "I have carefully considered input from all interested stakeholders and have made a final pricing direction on the value of this spectrum. The prices in the direction draw on economic analysis, discussion with industry and public consultation, and reflect the value of each band of spectrum."