VHF High Band Frequency Band Plan (148 to 174 MHz) Variation 2002 (No. 1)

Overview

The VHF High Band Frequency Band Plan (148 to 174 MHz) Variation 2002 (No. 1) was enacted by the Australian Communications Authority under section 34 of the Radiocommunications Act 1992. This legislative instrument addresses the need to update and refine the frequency allocation for the VHF High Band, ensuring efficient and effective use of radio spectrum resources within this range. The Authority's role in updating the plan reflects the policy objective of maintaining an up-to-date and relevant framework for radiocommunications, which is critical for the growing demand for wireless communication services. This variation introduces new definitions and allocations to better accommodate emerging technologies and services, particularly in the context of paging services.

Scope and Application

The VHF High Band Frequency Band Plan (148 to 174 MHz) Variation 2002 (No. 1) is a legislative instrument issued by the Australian Communications Authority under section 34 of the Radiocommunications Act 1992. It modifies the existing VHF High Band Frequency Band Plan (148 to 174 MHz) 1991, specifically addressing the definitions and services associated with the use of frequencies within the 148 to 174 MHz range. This Plan applies to all entities and persons operating radiocommunications services within the specified frequency band, ensuring compliance with the updated regulatory framework. The changes primarily affect the land mobile service and fixed service used for paging, delineating their primary and secondary service statuses based on specific channel frequencies. The Plan is effective from the date of its gazettal and applies nationally across Australia. It does not explicitly exclude any particular entities or services but rather updates the regulatory definitions and operational guidelines within the scope of the Radiocommunications Act 1992.

Key Provisions

The VHF High Band Frequency Band Plan (148 to 174 MHz) Variation 2002 (No. 1) amends the 1991 version of the plan, effective from its date of gazettal. This legislative instrument modifies the existing plan under section 34 of the Radiocommunications Act 1992. Key changes include the substitution of definitions and service classifications, as well as adjustments to channel and bandwidth allocations. The primary modifications are outlined in Schedule 1 of the variation, which updates the terminology and usage criteria for paging services within the specified frequency range. The obligations imposed by this Act are primarily concerned with the classification and operation of services within the amended frequency band. For instance, the land mobile service (paging) and fixed service (paging) are now clearly defined, with specific rules regarding their primary and secondary service statuses in different channels. The Act also mandates that these services comply with the newly defined channelling arrangements and bandwidths. Additionally, it is required that any stations operating within these services adhere to the newly established regulations regarding their use in particular frequency channels and bandwidths. The variation introduces several potential consequences for non-compliance with the outlined regulations. While specific offences and penalties are not detailed within the text of this legislative instrument, breaches of the Radiocommunications Act 1992 or any associated regulations can result in substantial penalties. For instance, under the Radiocommunications Act, unauthorised use of radio frequencies can lead to fines and potential criminal charges, depending on the severity of the breach. The maximum penalties for such offences can include fines up to $11,000 for individuals and significantly higher amounts for corporations, as well as potential imprisonment terms. It is crucial for entities operating within the amended frequency band to ensure strict adherence to the updated regulations to avoid these consequences.