CANBERRA, Australia -- The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, today announced a consultation for the future of mobile phone and wireless broadband licenses.

“Australia has been a world leader in wireless communications and we need to plan ahead to retain our leadership,” Senator Conroy said.

“Mobile phones and wireless broadband have changed people’s lives and it is important that industry have the best chance to plan and develop future services.”

Senator Conroy today issued a discussion paper on re-issuing 15-year radiofrequency spectrum licences. The licenses include those relevant to the delivery of 2G and 3G mobile phone and wireless broadband services.

“Wireless spectrum is a valuable public asset that supports a range of services of great importance to consumers, business and the telecommunications industry,” Senator Conroy said.

The Government’s discussion paper examines a range of issues and calls for comment on the re-issue of licenses in the 800MHz, 1800MHz, 2.1GHz, 2.3GHz and 3.4GHz spectrum bands.

While key licences do not begin expiring until 2013, spectrum licence re-issue requires major Government policy decisions.

“There are complex issues that will take some time to assess but work has already begun and I expect that the Government will be making decisions over the next 12 months on this important matter,” Senator Conroy said.

The discussion paper is available online from: www.dbcde.gov.au/spectrumlicences