Overview

The Telecommunications Standard (GSM Customer Equipment—ACA TS 018) 1997 was introduced to establish technical criteria for customer equipment designed to connect to a public GSM digital cellular mobile telecommunications system. Enacted by the Australian Communications Authority (ACA) under the provisions of the Telecommunications Act 1997, this standard aims to ensure compatibility and non-interference of customer equipment within the GSM network. The enactment addresses the need for a uniform technical benchmark to facilitate the smooth operation of telecommunications services and to prevent any potential disruptions or technical incompatibilities that could arise from the use of non-compliant equipment. This standard was published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette on the effective date, ensuring that it takes effect upon its gazettal as per section 376(5) of the Telecommunications Act 1997.

Scope and Application

The Telecommunications Standard (GSM Customer Equipment—ACA TS 018) 1997 applies to customer equipment intended for connection to a public GSM digital cellular mobile telecommunications system, as defined under the Telecommunications Act 1997. This standard is established by the Australian Communications Authority (ACA) to ensure non-interference interworking requirements for such equipment are met, thereby facilitating effective communication within the public GSM network. The geographic and jurisdictional reach of this standard is national, encompassing all areas within the Commonwealth of Australia where the GSM network operates. The standard is applicable to all entities and individuals involved in the design, manufacture, or distribution of customer equipment intended for use with a GSM network. This encompasses a broad range of industries and stakeholders, including telecommunications companies, manufacturers, and retailers. The application of this standard is mandatory for any equipment intended for connection to a GSM network, ensuring compliance with the specified non-interference interworking requirements. The standard does not explicitly state any exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds, implying a broad application to all relevant equipment within the scope of the Act. The authority to extend or restrict the application of this standard is conferred through subordinate instruments, allowing for further regulation and adaptation to technological advancements and changes in the telecommunications landscape.

Key Provisions

The Telecommunications Standard (ACA TS 018) 1997, established under subsection 376(1) of the Telecommunications Act 1997, sets forth the technical requirements for customer equipment intended for use with a public GSM digital cellular mobile telecommunications system. This standard, referenced as ACA TS 018, is designed to ensure that customer equipment, such as mobile phones, operates effectively and without interference when connected to a GSM network. It is crucial for maintaining network quality and reliability. The primary obligation imposed by this standard is that any customer equipment connected to a public GSM network must comply with the non-interference interworking requirements detailed in ACA TS 018. This includes ensuring that the equipment does not cause harmful interference to the GSM network or to other equipment connected to the same network. Manufacturers and importers of such equipment must adhere to these standards, which are outlined in the ACA TS 018 - 97 document approved by the Australian Communications Authority (ACA) on 26 November 1997. Failure to comply with the provisions of ACA TS 018 may result in severe consequences. While the specific penalties for non-compliance are not detailed in the legislative instrument, the Telecommunications Act 1997 generally allows for enforcement actions against entities that fail to adhere to standards set forth by the ACA. This can include fines, corrective actions, or other regulatory measures to ensure compliance. The penalties can be substantial, reflecting the importance of maintaining the integrity and functionality of telecommunications networks in Australia.