Australian operator Telstra has acquired licenses in the 700 MHz band and 2.5 GHz band in the spectrum auction held by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). The licenses are for a contiguous 2x20 MHz block of spectrum in the 700 MHz band (40 MHz in total) and a contiguous 2x40 MHz block in the 2.5 GHz band (80 MHz in total).

Operator plans to use the spectrum to enhance its network to help support extraordinary demand growth for mobile services and data. Operator is investing total $1.2 billion in 2012-13 Financial Year in its wireless network. 

Telstra is already trialing the LTE-Advanced technology with plans to introduce it later this year in areas with heavy traffic demand over a greater distance. 

In the auction Telstra’s total package of spectrum was secured at close to the reserve prices and the total investment by the company will be $1.302 billion.

The license for the 2.5 GHz band is set to commence on 1 October 2014 (except in Perth metro and regional Western Australia which commences on 1 February 2016) and for the 700 MHz band on 1 January 2015.