What is the Spectrum Working Group?

The Spectrum Working Group (SWG) is a committee of AOC Australia, exclusively supporting Australian Defence Industry participants. The SWG is a forum for Australian Defence Industry participants to engage in the domestic and international spectrum regulatory environments in a collaborative way. We make sure that your interests are known to spectrum policy-makers by representing Defence Industry interests in a variety of forums, and by ensuring that current spectrum regulation topics are communicated to the SWG membership. 

Spectrum Regulation 101

Spectrum is regulated globally by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a UN treaty organisation. The ITU administers the ITU Radio Regulations as international law. As a signatory to the convention, Australia abides by these regulations, which are reflected in Australian legislative frameworks.

The spectrum market is administered in Australia by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts, and is regulated by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), who ensure that Australian users meet the rules of international agreements and that important public organisations such as defence and emergency services can use spectrum. The Defence Spectrum Office advocates on behalf of Defence and Defence capability, however this representation does not extend to commercial needs. Therefore, Defence Industry must represent their own interests in the various forums and stakeholder working groups. 

Spectrum regulation is managed globally over a four year cycle. Australian stakeholder groups provide input into these national and international regulatory processes via the Australian Radiocommunication Study Groups - it is these forums in which SWG members will participate.

FAQs

How do I sign up?

Email swg@aocaustralia.com to join our mailing list, and join our LinkedIn Group - click here: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14388110/

How much does it cost?

Participation in the SWG is FREE for AOC Australia Sponsors and members. Non-member organisations may register to participate at a cost of $500 per year. 

I'm not part of an industry organisation or involved in my employer's spectrum activities. Can I still be involved?

Yes! All AOC individual members are invited to participate. Sign up to our mailing list to receive access to SWG resources. 

I'd like to be more involved!

AOC Australia and the SWG are run by volunteers committed to promoting the interests of Australia's IW community. If you're interested in helping out and getting some personal and professional development along the way, please get in touch!