The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has announced four winners in recently concluded 5G spectrum auction in the 3.6 GHz band. All 350 lots available in the auction were sold, realizing total revenue of approximately AU$853 million.

Telstra won 143 lots for AU$386,008,400 whereas Optus Mobile won 47 lots for AU$185,069,100. Mobile JV of TPG Telecom Limited and Vodafone Hutchison Australia won 131 lots for AU$263,283,800. Dense Air Australia Pty Ltd won 29 lots for AU$18,492,000.

"This spectrum is recognized internationally as a key band for 5G services. Timely release of the 5G-compatible spectrum will facilitate the early delivery of next-generation 5G services to the Australian public and industry," said ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin.

Licenses won at auction will commence in March 2020 and will extend until 13 December 2030. However, arrangements exist to enable earlier access to the band, provided that no interference is caused to existing licensees.