The National Broadband Plan, in addition to containing clear commitments regarding addressing market failure in the provision of high-speed broadband services to all parts of the country, also sets out specific targets in relation to a number of complementary measures aimed at accelerating commercial investment. These include, inter alia, a review of national spectrum policy and possible amendments to the existing Wireless Telegraphy Act 1926 if deemed necessary.
My Department has commenced the review of national spectrum policy and I expect to be in a position to issue a public consultation document on the matter this month. The review will deal with a broad range of issues relating to policy in the use of spectrum while respecting the role of ComReg as independent Regulator with responsibility for the management of spectrum on a day-to-day basis.
Given the potential scale of the task I do not anticipate being in a position to bring forward any proposed legislative changes this calendar year.