Broadband  |  2023-10-20

ACMA Publishes 'Private Wireless Networks Using 4G or 5G' Market Study

Source: The Critical Communications Review | Gert Jan Wolf editor

The report also examines the likely impact on spectrum demand and implications for the ACMA.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has published a report that examines the current and prospective Australian market for private wireless networks. These private wireless networks are either 4G long-term evolution or 5G networks and are deployed by businesses and organizations for private spectrum use. The report investigates the potential impact on spectrum demand and the repercussions for the ACMA.

Private wireless networks are identified as a driver for spectrum facilitating 5G connectivity in the ACMA's five-year spectrum outlook (FYSO) 2022–27 for 2022–23. The FYSO anticipates that private wireless networks will continue to proliferate and that the majority of new networks will utilize 5G technology. Industry analysts predict that 5G private networks will transform Industry 4.0 by facilitating connectivity, advanced analytics, automation, and advanced manufacturing technology.

Key developments

This market study identifies developments in private wireless networks in Australia. This includes:

  • The mining and resources sector having over 50 private wireless networks already in operation, with more in planning stages.  
  • The rail sector deploying private wireless networks. State rail companies already own spectrum licences and are deployed or in advanced planning stages. 
  • The agriculture sector investigating using private wireless networks.
  • The entertainment, advanced manufacturing and infrastructure sectors having an interest in using the private networks. 

Key factors in deploying private wireless networks are: 

  • having a sound business case for digitising operations 
  • assessing the cost and complexity of deploying a network at particular locations 
  • securing spectrum at desired frequencies in particular locations 
  • having access to a range of industrial-grade wireless equipment at suitable frequencies. 

The report also examines the likely impact on spectrum demand and implications for the ACMA and can be downloaded in the Whitepaper section of this website.