Summary of outcomes of the International Telecommunication Union World Radiocommunication Conference 20152–27 November 2015Geneva, SwitzerlandPrepared by the ACMA

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Introduction

Agenda item reportsAgenda item 1.1—IMT candidate bands 2Australian Position 2Outcome for Australia 2

Agenda item 1.2—Region 1 694–790 MHz mobile 3Australian Position 3Outcome for Australia 3

Agenda item 1.3—Broadband public protection and disaster relief 3Australian Position 3Outcome for Australia 3

Agenda item 1.4—Amateur service secondary allocation 5 250–5 450 kHz 4Australian Position 4Outcome for Australia 4

Agenda item 1.5—Unmanned aircraft systems 4Australian Position 4Outcome for Australia 4

Agenda item 1.6—Primary allocation to the FSS 10–17 GHz 5Australian Position 5Outcome for Australia 5

Agenda item 1.7—Review of the band 5 091–5 150 MHz by the FSS 5Australian Position 5Outcome for Australia 5

Agenda item 1.8—Earth stations located on board vessels 6Australian Position 6Outcome for Australia 6

Agenda item 1.9.1—Allocation to the fixed-satellite service in the 7–8 GHz range 6Australian Position 6Outcome for Australia 6

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Contents (Continued)

Agenda item 1.9.2—Allocation to the maritime-mobile satellite service in the 7–8 GHz range 7Australian Position 7Outcome for Australia 7

Agenda item 1.10—MSS 22–26 GHz 7Australian Position 7Outcome for Australia 7

Agenda item 1.11—EESS primary allocation 7–8 GHz 8Australian Position 8Outcome for Australia 8

Agenda item 1.12—Extension of worldwide allocation to the EESS 8Australian Position 8Outcome for Australia 8

Agenda item 1.13—Review of RR No. 5.268 space research service 9Australian Position 9Outcome for Australia 9

Agenda item 1.14—Review of coordinated universal time (UTC) 9Australian Position 9Outcome for Australia 9

Agenda item 1.15—Spectrum demands for on-board communication stations in the maritime mobile service 10Australian Position 10Outcome for Australia 10

Agenda item 1.16—Regulatory provisions and possible spectrum allocations for new Automatic Identification System 10Australian Position 10Outcome for Australia 10

Agenda item 1.17—Spectrum and regulatory requirements to support wireless avionics intra-communications (WAIC) 11Australian Position 11Outcome for Australia 11

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Contents (Continued)

Agenda item 1.18—Radiolocation for automotive applications in the 77.5–78.0 GHz band 11Australian Position 11Outcome for Australia 11

Agenda item 2—Incorporation by reference 12Australian Position 12Outcome for Australia 12

Agenda item 4—Review of Resolutions and Recommendations 13Australian Position 13Outcome for Australia 13

Agenda item 7—Satellite issues 13Australian Position 13Outcome for Australia 15

Agenda item 8—Deletion of country footnotes 18Australian Position 18Outcome for Australia 18

Agenda item 9.1.1—Protection of the systems operating in the mobile-satellite service in the band 406–406.1 MHz 18Australian Position 18Outcome for Australia 18

Agenda item 9.1.2—Reduction of the coordination arc 19Australian Position 19Outcome for Australia 19

Agenda item 9.1.3—Regulatory measures to support international public telecommunication services in developing countries 19Australian Position 19Outcome for Australia 19

Agenda item 9.1.4—Updating and rearrangement of the Radio Regulations 20Australian Position 20Outcome for Australia 20

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Contents (Continued)

Agenda item 9.1.5—Consideration of technical and regulatory actions in order to support existing and future operation of fixed-satellite service earth stations within the band 3 400–4 200 MHz 20Australian Position 20Outcome for Australia 20

Agenda item 9.1.6—Definitions of fixed service, fixed station and mobile station 20Australian Position 20Outcome for Australia 21

Agenda item 9.1.7—Guidelines for emergency and disaster relief radiocommunication 21Australian Position 21Outcome for Australia 21

Agenda item 9.1.8—Nano- and picosatellites 21Australian Position 21Outcome for Australia 22

Agenda item 9.2—Difficulties or inconsistencies encountered in the application of the Radio Regulations 22Australian Position 22Outcome for Australia 22Outcome for Australia 22

Agenda item 10—New agenda items 22Australian Position 22Outcome for Australia 23

Global Flight Tracking for civil aviation (GFT) 23Australian Position 23Outcome for Australia 24

List of acronyms

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Introduction

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) held the 2015 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-15) in Geneva, Switzerland, from 2–27 November 2015. The conference considered an agenda established by the previous conference in 2012 (WRC-12), and concluded on the regulatory solutions incorporated in the Provisional Final Acts World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-15).

The technical feasibility of, and mechanisms for achieving the agenda items outcomes were established in studies undertaken by the ITU Radiocommunication Sector (ITU-R) Study Groups and their Working Parties, and consolidated into a Report to WRC-15 at a Conference Preparatory Meeting (CPM) in Geneva from 23 March to 2 April 2015.

This document provides a summary of the outcomes of WRC-15 from an Australian perspective, including the Australian National Positions leading to the conference and outcomes for Australia.

An Australian Government Delegation of 32 representatives from government and industry (including the ACMA) attended the conference.

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Agenda item reportsAgenda item 1.1—IMT candidate bands to consider additional spectrum allocations to the mobile service on a primary basis and identification of additional frequency bands for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) and related regulatory provisions, to facilitate the development of terrestrial mobile broadband applications, in accordance with Resolution 233 (WRC-12)

Australian PositionAustralia supports additional spectrum allocations to the mobile service on a primary basis and identification of frequency bands for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) and other terrestrial mobile broadband applications in accordance with Resolution 233 (WRC-12).

Australia supports additional spectrum allocations to the mobile service on a primary basis and identification of frequency bands for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) and other terrestrial mobile broadband applications in accordance with Resolution 233 (WRC-12).

Australia supports the identification of the following bands for use by IMT under WRC-15 agenda item 1.1: 1 427–1 452 MHz, 1 452–1 492 MHz, 1 492–1 518 MHz, 3 400–3 600 MHz and 3 600–3 700 MHz.

For the band 1 427–1 452 MHz, Australia also supports regulatory measures (including the development of maximum unwanted emission levels, possibly in a revision to Resolution 750 (Rev.WRC-12)) to enable coexistence with passive services in the band 1 400–1 427 MHz. Australia prefers Method C Option C1a while acknowledging some allowance may need to be made for existing mobile systems. Australia may consider supporting other Methods such as Option C1b (recommended unwanted levels) if further information on the issue becomes available.

For the band 1 452–1 492 MHz, Australia supports Method C Option C2.

For the band 1 492–1 518 MHz, Australia supports Method C Option C1. For the band 3 400–3 600 MHz, Australia supports Method B Option B4 and Method C Option C4. In line with the identified methods, Australia will seek to include its name in existing Radio Regulations footnotes No. 5.432B (3 400–3 500 MHz) and No. 5.433A (3 500–3 600 MHz) without any further changes to those footnotes.

For the band 3 600–3 700 MHz, Australia supports Method C Option C2.

Other bands Australia will not seek a new mobile allocation or IMT identification in the following bands under WRC-15 agenda item 1.1: 470–698 MHz, 1 350–1 400 MHz, 1 518–1 525 MHz, 1 695–1 710 MHz, 2 700–2 900 MHz, 3 300–3 400 MHz, 3 700–3 800 MHz, 3 800–4 200 MHz, 4 400–4 500 MHz, 4 500–4 800 MHz, 4 800–4 990 MHz, 5 350–5 470 MHz, 5 725–5 850 MHz and 5 925–6 425 MHz.

Australia supports the Preliminary APT Common Proposals from the APG15-5 meeting on WRC-15 agenda item 1.1 for the following bands: 1 427–1 452 MHz, 1 492–1 518 MHz, 5 350–5 470 MHz and 5 725–5 850 MHz.

Outcome for AustraliaThe Australian objective of identifying the bands 1 427–1 452 MHz, 1 452–1 492 MHz, 1 492–1 518 MHz, 3 400–3 600 MHz was achieved. Mandatory emission levels to protect passive services in 1 400–1 427 MHz were included in Resolution 750 with appropriate recognition of existing services. The band 3 600–3 700 MHz was not identified for IMT by any country in Region 3. This is not a

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significant issue for Australia as the band has a primary MS allocation that allows the deployment of IMT technology on a coordinated basis. For the band 3 300–3 400 MHz, the identification of the band for IMT, included regulatory measures to enable coexistence with RLS, was in line with the Australian Position.

Australia was successfully added to RR No. 5.313A to identify the band 698–790 MHz for IMT.

Agenda item 1.2—Region 1 694–790 MHz mobileto examine the results of ITU-R studies, in accordance with Resolution 232 (WRC-12), on the use of the frequency band 694–790 MHz by the mobile, except aeronautical mobile, service in Region 1 and take the appropriate measures

Australian PositionConsidering that agenda item 1.2 is on the use of the frequency band 694–790 MHz by the mobile, except aeronautical mobile, service in Region 1 (on a primary basis) Australia does not have a position on this agenda item.

Outcome for AustraliaNone.

Agenda item 1.3—Broadband public protection and disaster reliefto review and revise Resolution 646 (Rev.WRC-12) for broadband public protection and disaster relief (PPDR), in accordance with Resolution 648 (WRC-12)

Australian PositionAustralia supports Method D of the CPM Report to WRC-15 to satisfy this agenda item.

Thereby, Australia supports the requirements of PPDR, including broadband PPDR, a global tuning range and regional ranges being addressed in the revision of Resolution 646 (Rev.WRC-12).

Furthermore, Australia considers it appropriate that further details and explanation on regionally harmonised arrangements in tuning ranges described in a revised Resolution 646, and specific frequency arrangements adopted by individual administrations, are best referenced in the most recent version of Recommendation ITU-R M.2015. This would facilitate, in a timely manner, future detail on frequency bands used by administrations for PPDR to be revised without the need for a new WRC agenda item to be created to review and/or revise Resolution 646.

Outcome for AustraliaRevisions to Resolution 646 were in alignment with Australia’s Position for this agenda item. The Resolution now resolves that the frequency range 694 ֪–894 MHz is harmonised across all regions for PPDR communications (generically, not ‘narrowband PPDR’ or ‘broadband PPDR’), which may support manufacture of equipment that meets specific PPDR requirements. The term ‘global’ is not used to describe this range—this was opposed at the insistence of one regional group—however it implicitly applies to all regions and therefore has the same effect.

Furthermore, Recommendation ITU-R M.2015 is now explicitly referred to in the Resolution as the means for capturing the PPDR frequency arrangements used by different administrations. This will provide visibility of PPDR arrangements between countries to further encourage harmonisation and economies of scale.

The combination of the above key outcomes is largely in line with the Australia-preferred Method D of the CPM Report. That said, while some aspects of the WRC-15 revisions were not desirable to Australia, they were accepted as a means of achieving consensus and not materially inconsistent with Australian objectives.

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Resolution 648 (WRC-12), which provided the basis for this agenda item, was suppressed subsequent to approval of the revisions to Resolution 646.

Agenda item 1.4—Amateur service secondary allocation 5 250–5 450 kHzto consider possible new allocation to the amateur service on a secondary basis within the band 5 250–5 450 kHz in accordance with Resolution 649 (WRC-12)

Australian PositionAustralia supports Method A3 of the CPM Report to WRC-15 on agenda item 1.4, for a secondary global allocation to the amateur service of no more than 10 kHz, in a contiguous frequency range, in the range 5 275–5 450 kHz.

Australia does not support a secondary allocation for the amateur service in:> the 5 250–5 275 kHz frequency range and recommends it be excluded from consideration given

sharing with oceanographic radar is not feasible> over the entire 5 275–5 450 kHz frequency range (Method A1).

Outcome for AustraliaA compromise outcome was achieved allocating 15 kHz to the amateur service on a secondary basis, with a global power limit of 15 W equivalent isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p).

The outcome was not consistent with the Australian Position, with the allocated bandwidth exceeding that supported by Australia. However, domestic spectrum planning arrangements may minimise any adverse impacts.

Agenda item 1.5—Unmanned aircraft systems to consider the use of frequency bands allocated to the fixed-satellite service not subject to Appendices 30, 30A and 30B for the control and non-payload communications of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in non-segregated airspaces, in accordance with Resolution 153 (WRC-12)

Australian PositionAustralia supports measures to allow use of frequency bands allocated to the fixed-satellite service not subject to Appendices 30, 30A and 30B for the control and non-payload communications (CNPC) of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in non-segregated airspaces, in accordance with Resolution 153 (WRC-12), provided technical and regulatory actions identified in ITU-R studies satisfy accepted safety requirements and do not place unacceptable constraints on other applications of the fixed-satellite service.

Australia supports Method A Option 1.

Outcome for AustraliaThe achievement of a positive outcome on agenda item 1.5 provides a suitable starting point for ICAO to pursue the development of Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) in relation to the use of the FSS for UAS Control and Non Payload Communications (CNPC) links. This outcome is entirely consistent with the Australian Position on this agenda item and is an excellent result that will facilitate the further development of the unmanned aviation sector.

The list of bands with footnotes included in the final decision to allow use of the FSS for UAS CNPC links is reduced from those in the Australian proposal, but does include the core FSS bands in Region 3: 12.2–12.75 GHz (space-to-Earth) and 14.0–14.47 GHz (Earth-to-space); and 19.7–20.2 GHz (space-to-Earth) and 29.5–30.0 GHz (Earth-to-space). These bands provide extensive capacity through numerous existing FSS systems and are not shared with terrestrial services in Australia.

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The pfd limit provided in Annex 2 of Resolution 155 (WRC-15) to protect the fixed service in the band 14.0–14.47 GHz is the same as that provided in Recommendation ITU-R M.1643-0 that applies to the secondary aeronautical mobile satellite service allocation in this band.

Agenda item 1.6—Primary allocation to the FSS 10–17 GHzto consider possible additional primary allocations:1.6.1 to the fixed-satellite service (Earth-to-space and space-to-Earth) of 250 MHz in the range

between 10 GHz and 17 GHz in Region 1;1.6.2 to the fixed-satellite service (Earth-to-space) of 250 MHz in Region 2 and 300 MHz in Region

3 within the range 13–17 GHz; and review the regulatory provisions on the current allocations to the fixed-satellite service within each range, taking into account the results of ITU-R studies, in accordance with Resolutions 151 (WRC-12) and 152 (WRC-12), respectively

Australian PositionAustralia supports a common fixed-satellite service (FSS) worldwide allocation for the additional uplink spectrum under WRC-15 agenda items 1.6.1 and 1.6.2.

However, noting the difficulty in identifying suitable sharing arrangements with the mobile service to protect Australia’s use of the 14.5–14.8 GHz band for aeronautical mobile systems, Australia is of the view additional measures would be required, including in the least, a minimum antenna size of 6 metres, before it could support facilitating generic FSS (Earth-to-space) on a worldwide basis (Method F2 of the CPM Report to WRC-15).

Australia supports no change in the bands 10–13.4 GHz and 14.8–17 GHz due to incompatibility with existing services. Additionally, with respect to agenda item 1.6.2 (Regions 2 and 3), Australia supports no change in the bands between 13.4–13.75 GHz.

Australia notes that resolves 1 of Resolutions 151 (WRC-12) and 152 (WRC-12) indicates ‘to complete, for WRC-15’. Consequently, WRC-15 may wish to revise or suppress these Resolutions.

Australia supports the APT Common Proposal on agenda item 1.6.2.

Outcome for AustraliaOverall outcome saw a downlink allocation in Region 1 in the frequency range 13.4–13.65 GHz and a conditional uplink allocation made in the frequency range 14.5–14.8 GHz limited to certain administrations across the three Regions.

Australia was successful in advocating for both an allocation and certain restrictions on the allocation (minimum dish size of 6 metres, limitation to notification of ‘specific’ earth stations).

Agenda item 1.7—Review of the band 5 091–5 150 MHz by the FSSto review the use of the band 5 091–5 150 MHz by the fixed-satellite service (Earth-to-space) (limited to feeder links of the non-geostationary mobile-satellite systems in the mobile-satellite service) in accordance with Resolution 114 (Rev.WRC-12)

Australian PositionAustralia supports the single Method in the CPM Report to WRC-15 to fully satisfy the agenda item.

Australia supports the APT Common Proposal on the agenda item 1.7.

Outcome for AustraliaWRC-15 suppressed the legacy RR No. 5.444A constraints on the non-geostationary mobile-satellite systems in the mobile-satellite service feeder uplinks in the band 5 091–5 150 MHz.

The Australian proposals on agenda item 1.7 were fully supported by the conference.

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Agenda item 1.8—Earth stations located on board vessels to review the provisions relating to earth stations located on board vessels (ESVs), based on studies conducted in accordance with Resolution 909 (WRC-12)

Australian PositionAustralia supports the development of regulations relating to earth stations located on board vessels, which promote efficient use of spectrum while maintaining protection of existing services.

For WRC-15 agenda item 1.8, Australia considers this is best addressed by Method C of the CPM Report. Method C proposes establishing different protection distances for different maximum e.i.r.p. density levels that yields shorter protection distances for e.i.r.p. density levels lower than operational provisions of Resolution 902 (WRC-03).

Australia notes that resolves 2 of Resolution 909 (WRC-12) indicates ‘to complete the referenced studies in time for WRC-15’. Consequently, WRC-15 may suppress Resolution 909 (WRC-12) based on the outcomes of this agenda item.

Outcome for AustraliaThe outcome after considerable negotiation concluded no change to current Radio Regulations except minor amendments to C-band antenna size down to 1.2 metres from 2.4 metres and protection distance increased from 300 kilometres to 330 kilometres.

While the result was not aligned with Australia’s Position on this issue, the implications for Australia are minimal. The result achieves some of Australia’s objectives to support the development of regulations relating to earth stations located on board vessels that promote efficient use of spectrum, while maintaining protection of existing services by providing for a much smaller antenna size for C-band ESVs.

Agenda item 1.9.1—Allocation to the fixed-satellite service in the 7–8 GHz rangeto consider, in accordance with Resolution 758 (WRC-12), possible new allocations to the fixed-satellite service in the frequency bands 7 150–7 250 MHz (space-to-Earth) and 8 400–8 500 MHz (Earth-to-space), subject to appropriate sharing conditions

Australian PositionITU-R technical and regulatory studies have not demonstrated that coexistence of the proposed FSS allocation can be practically achieved without imposing undue constraint and regulatory burden on some incumbent services.

Consequently, Australia supports Method C of the CPM Report to WRC-15, no change to the Radio Regulations.

Australia notes that resolves 4 of Resolution 758 (WRC-12) indicates ‘to complete these studies in time for WRC-15’. Therefore, WRC-15 may suppress this Resolution subject to the outcome of the agenda item.

Australia supports the Preliminary APT Common Proposals from the APG15-5 meeting on the agenda item.

Outcome for AustraliaThe WRC-15 outcome (no change) was in complete alignment with Australia’s Position.

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Agenda item 1.9.2—Allocation to the maritime-mobile satellite service in the 7–8 GHz range to consider, in accordance with Resolution 758 (WRC-12), the possibility of allocating the bands 7 375–7 750 MHz and 8 025–8 400 MHz to the maritime-mobile satellite service and additional regulatory measures, depending on the results of appropriate studies

Australian PositionITU-R studies toward WRC-15 have not demonstrated that the proposed maritime-mobile satellite service (MMSS) (Earth-to-space) allocation in the band 8 025–8 400 MHz can coexist with some incumbent services. As such, Australia does not support the proposed MMSS (Earth-to-space) allocation, that is, Method B of the CPM Report to WRC-15.

Australia does not oppose Method C of the CPM Report to WRC-15, which provides a new MMSS (space-to-Earth) allocation in the band 7 375–7 750 MHz, noting the method currently contains no protection from existing terrestrial services.

Suppression of Resolution 758 (WRC-12) is an additional and consequential consideration for WRC-15 on the outcome of this agenda item.

Australia supports the Preliminary APT Common Proposals from the APG15-5 meeting on the agenda item.

Outcome for AustraliaThe WRC-15 outcome provides a downlink only primary allocation to MMSS in the frequency range 7 375–7 750 MHz with two Radio Regulations Table of Frequency Allocations footnotes limiting use to geostationary-satellite networks with the condition that earth stations in the MMSS shall not claim protection from, nor constrain the use and development of, stations in the fixed and mobile, except aeronautical mobile, services.

This outcome is in complete alignment with Australia’s Position that opposed Method B (which included an MMSS uplink allocation in the band 8 025–8 400 MHz) and did not oppose Method C (MMSS downlink only allocation).

Agenda item 1.10—MSS 22–26 GHzto consider spectrum requirements and possible additional spectrum allocations for the mobile-satellite service in the Earth-to-space and space-to-Earth directions, including the satellite component for broadband applications, including International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT), within the frequency range from 22 GHz to 26 GHz, in accordance with Resolution 234 (WRC-12)

Australian PositionAustralia supports Method A of the CPM Report to WRC-15, that is, no change to the Radio Regulations Article 5 Table of Frequency Allocations.

Australia supports the Preliminary APT Common Proposals from the APG15-5 meeting on the agenda item.

Outcome for AustraliaThe WRC-15 outcome was no allocation and consistent with the Australian Position.

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Agenda item 1.11—EESS primary allocation 7–8 GHzto consider a primary allocation for the Earth exploration-satellite service (Earth-to-space) in the 7–8 GHz range, in accordance with Resolution 650 (WRC-12)

Australian PositionAustralia supports Method A of the CPM Report to WRC-15 with the addition of a new footnote developed and agreed at the APG15-5 meeting. Method A includes the following:

A primary worldwide allocation to the Earth exploration-satellite service (EESS) in the band 7 190–7 250 MHz in the Table of Frequency Allocations in Radio Regulations Article 5.

> Modification of Radio Regulations footnote No. 5.460 to indicate that:

a) GSO EESS does not claim protection from existing and future stations of the fixed service and mobile service

b) RR No. 5.43A does not apply c) EESS usage is restricted to TT&C for spacecraft operations.

> Modification of Table 7B in RR Appendix 7 to include an EESS allocation, and Table 21–2 is modified to extend the frequency range 7 145–7 235 MHz to 7 145–7 250 MHz and Table 21–3 is modified to extend the frequency range 7 190–7 135 MHz to 7 190–7 250 MHz

> Suppression of Resolution 650 (WRC-12) Allocation for the Earth exploration-satellite service (Earth-to-space) in the 7–8 GHz range.

Australia supports the Preliminary APT Common Proposals from the APG15-5 meeting of Method A of the CPM Report to WRC-15 with the addition of the following footnote: 5.B111 Space stations in the Earth exploration-satellite service (Earth-to-space) operating in the

geostationary satellite orbit shall not claim protection from emissions from the space research service in the frequency band 7 190–7 235 MHz. (WRC-15)

Outcome for AustraliaWRC-15 agreed a primary global allocation in the frequency range 7 190–7 250 MHz, restricted to tracking, telemetry and command for the operation of spacecraft. Further, GSO EESS space stations shall not claim protection from SRS, EESS space stations shall not claim protection from fixed and mobile stations and minimum separation distance of the EESS earth stations from the border(s) of neighbouring countries (10 kilometres (GSO) or 50 kilometres (non-GSO) from national border unless otherwise agreed by coordination).

The outcome is largely consistent with the Australian Position; the small variations arrived at to achieve compromise in this issue are not of substantive concern to Australia.

Agenda item 1.12—Extension of worldwide allocation to the EESS to consider an extension of the current worldwide allocation to the Earth exploration-satellite (active) service in the frequency band 9 300–9 900 MHz by up to 600 MHz within the frequency bands 8 700–9 300 MHz and/or 9 900–10 500 MHz, in accordance with Resolution 651 (WRC-12)

Australian PositionAustralia supports Method B2 of the CPM Report to WRC-15.

Australia supports the Preliminary APT Common Proposals from the APG15-5 meeting to WRC-15 on this agenda item.

Outcome for AustraliaWRC-15 agreed new allocations to the EESS (active) in the bands 9 200–9 300 MHz and 9 900–10 400 MHz. Agreement was reached on the technical limits for EESS (pfd mask) in the band 9 900–10 400 MHz for the protection of the incumbent services.

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A compromise was reached on the issue of a mechanism to restrict emissions over certain territories by employing Article 9 (Coordination of terrestrial stations operating in the bands shared with space service) of the Radio Regulations, specifically No. 9.21 which requires coordination between the notifying administration and countries listed in footnote 5.A112.

The outcome, including the compromise conditions are acceptable to Australia and the allocation is in accordance with the Australian Position.

Agenda item 1.13—Review of RR No. 5.268 space research serviceto review No. 5.268 with a view to examining the possibility for increasing the 5 kilometres distance limitation and allowing space research service (space-to-space) use for proximity operations by space vehicles communicating with an orbiting manned space vehicle, in accordance with Resolution 652 (WRC-12)

Australian PositionAustralia supported the single Method to address this agenda item as contained in the CPM Report to WRC-15, and supported the Preliminary APT Common Proposals from the APG15-5 meeting on this agenda item.

The Method removes the 5 kilometres distance limitation of RR No. 5.268 while maintaining the pfd limits of the footnote for use by space research service (space-to-space) space vehicles communicating with an orbiting manned space vehicle.

Outcome for AustraliaOne of the first decisions of the conference was to remove the distance limitation and the restriction to space extra vehicular activities in RR while maintaining protection at Earth’s surface. This outcome is aligned to Australia’s Position.

Agenda item 1.14—Review of coordinated universal time (UTC)to consider the feasibility of achieving a continuous reference time-scale, whether by the modification of coordinated universal time (UTC) or some other method, and take appropriate action, in accordance with Resolution 653 (WRC-12)

Australian PositionAustralia supports a continuous reference time-scale achieved by cessation of the insertion of leap seconds in Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).

Further, to allow for an adequate period of time for legacy systems reliant on the use of leap seconds to adapt to the change in UTC, the application of the suppression of leap second adjustments to UTC will be effective no less than five years after the date of entry into force of the Final Acts of the WRC-15.

The name of UTC to be retained.

This support is consistent with Method A1 of the CPM Report to WRC-15.

Outcome for AustraliaWhile not addressing the application of the leap second, a mechanism was established by way of a new Resolution 655 WRC-15 to move core non-radiocommunications aspects of the management of UTC to dedicated international metrology organisations rather than remain as an ITU controlled issue. While the new Resolution addresses part of the Australian supported position, the continuation of the occasional insertion of leap seconds to UTC was not aligned to the Australian Position.

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Agenda item 1.15—Spectrum demands for on-board communication stations in the maritime mobile service to consider spectrum demands for on-board communication stations in the maritime mobile service in accordance with Resolution 358 (WRC-12)

Australian PositionAustralia supports the single Method to address this agenda item as detailed in the CPM Report to WRC-15, Document 3 (see section 3/1.16/5). This includes:> more efficient usage of the existing frequencies, such as 12.5 and 6.25 kHz bandwidth for all the

channels identified in the Radio Regulations, for on-board communications> use of Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System (CTCSS) or Digital Coded Squelch (DCS)> support for necessary revisions to RR footnote No. 5.287.

Outcome for AustraliaThe Australian Position was successful. Resolution of the issues addressed under this agenda item through the single Method is of regional importance and supported by Australia. International harmonisation for on-board communication stations will be beneficial to the Australian maritime community. However, as the issue of maritime communication congestion is not severe in Australia, the overall impact for Australian maritime operations including those of overseas operators in Australia is minimal.

Agenda item 1.16—Regulatory provisions and possible spectrum allocations for new Automatic Identification Systemto consider regulatory provisions and spectrum allocations to enable possible new Automatic Identification System (AIS) technology applications and possible new applications to improve maritime radiocommunication in accordance with Resolution 360 (WRC-12)

Australian PositionAustralia supports the ITU-R studies of new applications using the Automatic Identification System (AIS) and enhanced maritime radiocommunications in the maritime mobile service in accordance with Resolution 360 (WRC-12)

For the four issues considered under this WRC-15 agenda item, Australia supports Methods A1, B1, C1-A and D as described in the CPM Report to WRC-15.

Outcome for AustraliaThe Australian Position was successful for issues A—Application specific message (ASM) designation, B—New applications for maritime radiocommunication—terrestrial component and D—VDES regional solution. The conference did not agree an outcome on Issue C—the satellite data communications component of the VDES, apart from establishing a new maritime agenda item for further study and to be considered at WRC-19. This is considered a good outcome.

The channel plan for the terrestrial VDES (Issue B) supported by Australia and the APT was fully successful, as was the choice of channels for ASM (Issue A). From 1 January 2019, channels 2027 (161.950 MHz) and 2028 (162.000 MHz) will be designated ASM 1 and ASM 2 respectively.

Maritime mobile-satellite allocations (Earth-to-space) for the reception of ASM via satellites on 161.950 MHz (ASM 1) and 162.000 MHz (ASM 2) were agreed.

In Regions 1 and 3, from 1 January 2017, the frequency bands 157.200–157.325 MHz and 161.800–161.925 MHz (corresponding to channels: 24, 84, 25, 85, 26 and 86) are identified for the utilisation of the VDES described in the most recent version of Recommendation ITU-R M.2092. These frequency bands may also be used for analog modulation described in the most recent version of Recommendation ITU-R M.1084 by an administration that wishes to do so, subject to not causing

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harmful interference to, or claiming protection from, other stations in the maritime mobile services using digitally modulated emissions and subject to coordination with affected administrations.

From 1 January 2019, channels 24, 84, 25 and 85 may be merged to form a unique duplex channel with a bandwidth of 100 kHz in order to operate the VDES terrestrial component.

This successful outcome will allow for industry to proceed with detailed design, and ITU-R Working Party 5B, the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA) and the International Electotechnical Commission (IEC) can now focus on the implementation standards and technical interworking arrangements for VDES ship-borne and shore-based equipment.

Agenda item 1.17—Spectrum and regulatory requirements to support wireless avionics intra-communications (WAIC)to consider possible spectrum requirements and regulatory actions, including appropriate aeronautical allocations, to support wireless avionics intra-communications (WAIC), in accordance with Resolution 423 (WRC-12)

Australian PositionAustralia supports an AM(R)S allocation to the band 4 200–4 400 MHz to facilitate wireless avionics intra-communications (WAIC) and the establishment of appropriate regulatory and procedural processes to support the use of WAIC in the band.

Australia supports the single method proposed in the CPM Report, and supports the APT Common Proposal to WRC-15 on this agenda item.

Outcome for AustraliaThe WRC-15 approved a worldwide primary allocation to the aeronautical mobile (route) service in the frequency band 4 200–4 400 MHz to support WAIC. This fully aligns with both the Australian Position and the APT Common Proposals to WRC-15.

Agenda item 1.18—Radiolocation for automotive applications in the 77.5–78.0 GHz bandto consider a primary allocation to the radiolocation service for automotive applications in the 77.5–78.0 GHz frequency band in accordance with Resolution 654 (WRC-12)

Australian PositionAustralia supports Method A of the CPM Report to WRC-15 to satisfy this agenda item, noting that potential interference to radio astronomy services would be expected to be localised and could best be resolved by the concerned administrations (as shown in section 3.18.3 of the CPM Report to WRC-15 Sharing studies with the radio astronomy service).

Outcome for AustraliaThe outcome for this agenda item was successful for Australia and consistent with the Australian Position. A new primary allocation for short-range vehicle radar systems allows full use of the device capabilities for automotive applications as well as allowing development of applications for other ground based usage, for example aircraft wing tip radar. Resolution 759 (WRC-15) provides for further study to consider possible interference issues from the short-range radar applications to radio astronomy services.

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Agenda item 2—Incorporation by referenceto examine the revised ITU-R Recommendations incorporated by reference in the Radio Regulations communicated by the Radiocommunication Assembly, in accordance with Resolution 28 (Rev.WRC-03), and to decide whether or not to update the corresponding references in the Radio Regulations, in accordance with the principles contained in Annex 1 to Resolution 27 (Rev.WRC-12)

Australian PositionAustralia supports examination and review of ITU-R Recommendations incorporated by reference and the corresponding references in the Radio Regulations in accordance with Resolution 28 (Rev.WRC-03) and the principles contained in Annex 1 of Resolution 27 (Rev.WRC-12).

Australia supports revision of the reference to the following ITU-R Recommendations revised and approved since WRC-12, already incorporated by reference in the Radio Regulations and included in Volume 4: > P.526-11 Propagation by diffraction> M.585-6 (Annex 1) Assignment and use of identities in the maritime mobile service> M.625-3 Direct-printing telegraph equipment employing automatic identification in the maritime

mobile service> M.690-1 Technical characteristics of emergency position-indicating radio beacons (EPIRBS)

operating on the carrier frequencies of 121.5 MHz and 243 MHz> M.1084-4 Interim solutions for improved efficiency in the use of the band 156–174 MHz by stations

in the maritime mobile service> M.1173 Technical characteristics of single-sideband transmitters used in the maritime mobile

service for radiotelephony in the bands between 1606.5 kHz (1605 kHz Region 2) and 4 000 kHz and between 4 000 kHz and 27 500 kHz

> M.1174-2 Technical characteristics of equipment used for on-board vessel communications in the bands between 450 and 470 MHz

> BO.1443-2 Reference BSS earth station antenna patterns for use in interference assessment involving non-GSO satellites in frequency bands covered by RR Appendix 30

> M.1638 Characteristics of and protection criteria for sharing studies for radiolocation, aeronautical radionavigation and meterological radars operating in the frequency bands between 5 250 and 5 850 MHz

> M.1827 Technical and operational requirements for stations of the aeronautical mobile (R) service (AM(R)S) Limited to surface application at airports and for stations of the aeronautical mobile service (AMS) limited to aeronautical security (AS) applications in the band 5 091–5 150 MHz.

Australia also supports references to the first version of an ITU-R Recommendation incorporated by reference, namely SA.1154, M.1171, M.1172, S.1256, S.1340, S.1341, F.1613, RA.1631, RS.1632, M.1643 and M.2013, to be revised to show the version number ‘-0’, as proposed in the CPM Report to WRC-15.

Noting that further consideration of ITU-R Recommendations to be incorporated by reference in the Radio Regulations may result from outcomes of WRC-15 agenda items to be determined by the conference. Further recognising considerations of the 2015 Radiocommunication Assembly prior to WRC-15 may have consequential considerations for other ITU-R Recommendations and the actions of this agenda item.

Australia supports the Preliminary APT Common Proposals from the APG15-5 meeting to WRC-15 on agenda item 2.

Outcome for AustraliaResults are acceptable to Australia and consistent with the Australian Position going into the conference.

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Agenda item 4—Review of Resolutions and Recommendationsin accordance with Resolution 95 (Rev.WRC-07), to review the resolutions and recommendations of previous conferences with a view to their possible revision, replacement or abrogation

Australian PositionAustralia supports the updating of Resolutions and Recommendations at each WRC and the work of the Director of the Radiocommunication Bureau in conducting a general review of Resolutions and Recommendations of previous conferences consistent with Resolution 95 (Rev.WRC-07). Australia supports proposals that have the effect of making Resolutions and Recommendations current and relevant.

Australia in general supports the Preliminary APT Common Proposals from the APG15-5 meeting to WRC-15 on agenda item 4, noting the outcome of some WRC-15 agenda items will result in possible actions yet to be determined for Resolutions related directly to respective agenda items.

Outcome for AustraliaThe outcome of this agenda item is closely aligned to Australia’s Positions. For the outcome on revised Resolutions the subject of WRC-15 agenda items, it is necessary to refer the text on specific agenda items and their respective Resolutions in the Final Acts World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-15).

Agenda item 7—Satellite issuesto consider possible changes, and other options, in response to Resolution 86 (Rev. Marrakesh, 2002) of the Plenipotentiary Conference, an advance publication, coordination, notification and recording procedures for frequency assignments pertaining to satellite networks, in accordance with Resolution 86 (Rev.WRC-07) to facilitate rational, efficient, and economical use of radio frequencies and any associated orbits, including the geostationary-satellite orbit

Australian PositionAustralia supports consideration of possible changes to improve advance publication, coordination, notification and recording procedures for frequency assignments pertaining to satellite networks on the basis that activity under this agenda item is not used to make changes to allocations in Article 5 of the Radio Regulations.

Matters identified and addressed in the CPM Report to WRC-15, Special Committee Report to CPM15-2, and APG meetings

Issue A—Informing the Bureau of a suspension under RR No. 11.49 beyond six months Australia supports Method A1 (no change) in the matter of informing the Bureau of suspensions more than six months after the actual date of suspension, as this can be handled on a case-by-case basis.

Issue B—Publication of information on bringing into use of satellite networks at the ITU website Australia supports establishing provisions or procedures to require the publication of bringing-into-use information related to satellite networks, Method B1 Option A or B. Bringing-into-use is a critical stage of the satellite registration process and is currently the only regulatory requirement that is not published by the ITU in a transparent manner. Australia supports the Preliminary APT Common Proposals from the APG15-5 meeting on Issue B.

Issue C—Review or possible cancellation of the advance publication mechanism for satellite networks subject to coordination under section II of Article 9 of the Radio Regulations Australia supports Method C3 as this will discourage speculative usage of the advance publication information mechanism. Australia does not have a preference for either regulatory Option A or B.

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Issue D—General use of modern electronic means of communications in coordination and notification procedures Australia supports the only method identified in the CPM Report, which will allow modern electronic means of communication to be used wherever the words ‘telegram’, ‘telefax’ or ‘fax’ are used in provisions related to coordination and notification procedures of satellite networks without replacing those words. Effort to improve the integrity of the contact details is supported and encouraged. Australia supports the Preliminary APT Common Proposals from the APG15-5 meeting on Issue D.

Issue E—Failure of a satellite during the bringing into use period Australia supports Method E3 (no change), as the rare event of a failure during the bringing into use period is best dealt by the Radio Regulations Board (RRB) for decision on a case-by- case basis. Australia supports the Preliminary APT Common Proposals from the APG15-5 meeting on Issue E.

Issue F—Modification to RR Appendix 30B in relation to the suspension of use of a frequency assignment recorded in the Master International Frequency Register (MIFR)Australia supports the only method in the CPM Report on this Issue, the alignment of the suspension provisions of Appendix 30B to the suspension provisions of other parts of the Radio Regulations. Australia supports the Preliminary APT Common Proposals from the APG15-5 meeting on Issue F.

Issue G—Clarification of bringing-into-use information provided under RR Nos. 11.44/11.44B The single Method for this item seeks to mirror the processes of RR No. 13.6 in parts of Article 11 relating to bringing-into-use and bringing-back-into-use. While supportive of efforts to increase rigour in these areas, Australia is of the view a more suitable method is to modify RR No. 13.6 to explicitly include the ability for the Bureau to review any aspect of the bringing-into-use and notification process (from the time of submission rather than the time of successful recording). Australia is contributing to WRC-15 on this Issue.

Issue H—Using one space station to bring frequency assignments at different orbital locations into use within a short period of time Australia supports Method H4, which is intended to discourage the practice of satellite hopping, whereby a satellite can be suspended for no longer than the period of time which it was in use at a particular location, up to a maximum of three years.

Issue I—Possible method to mitigate excessive satellite network filings issue Australia is generally supportive of efforts aimed at mitigating excessive filings, but sees this as the responsibility of administrations, not necessarily requiring changes to the Radio Regulations. Australia is of the view that attempts to mitigate excessive filings would entail significant time and effort with questionable returns. Therefore, Australia supports Method I1.4 (no change). Note for ‘Methods to address excessive advance publication information (API) filings’, section 5/7/9.5.2 of the CPM Report to WRC-15, Australia is of the view that this matter does not require separate consideration beyond that given under Issue C. Australia supports the Preliminary APT Common Proposals from the APG15-5 meeting on Issue I.

Issue J—Removal of the link between date of notification information and date of bringing into use in RR No. 11.44B Australia considers that the artificial connection between the two dates was unintentional and creates unnecessary complications. Therefore, Australia supports the removal of the linkage (Methods J1).

Issue K—Addition of a regulator provision in RR Article 11 for the case of launch failure Australia is of the view that current practices are sufficient to address the issue of launch failures and therefore supports Method K3 (no change).

Issue L—Modification of certain provisions of Article 4 of RR Appendices 30 and 30A for Regions 1 and 3 namely replacement of tacit agreement with explicit agreement or alignment of those provisions of RR Appendices 30 and 30A for Regions 1 and 3 with those of Appendix 30B In the absence of conclusive studies on this Issue, Australia supports Method L3 (no change).

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Issue [X]—Review of the orbital position limitations in Annex 7 to RR Appendix 30 Australia supports no change to the orbital position limitations in Appendix 30. Australia supports the Preliminary APT Common Proposals from the APG15-5 meeting for Issue [X].

Issue [Y]—Steerable beams and antenna gain contour covering area beyond submitted service area (Annex 2 to RR Appendix 4) Australia supports consideration of this issue, which would require further study on technical and regulatory aspects in the following WRC cycle, based on contributions brought to ITU studies.

Issue [Z]—Harmonization of regulatory texts in RR Appendix 30 and Appendix 30B in regard with exclusion of the territory of an administration from the service area of a satellite network subject to these AppendicesAustralia supports no change to the Radio Regulations on Issue [Z].

Outcome for AustraliaTopics corresponding to issues raised in the CPM Report

Issue A—Informing the Bureau of a suspension under RR No. 11.49 beyond six monthsThe Australian Position was for no change, but given the overwhelming majority of administrations supporting change, and the BR advice that some change was necessary in order for RR No. 11.49 to have proper effect, Australia chose not to support the no change proponents. The outcome is not inconsistent with Australian objectives, provides some needed clarity, and avoids a potentially costly situation should the BR cancel a network because an administration misses a deadline.

Issue B—Publication of information on bringing into use of satellite networks at the ITU websiteAfter much debate, the conference agreed a simple modification to RR Nos. 11.44B and 11.49, stating that the BR will publish bringing-into-use and bringing-back-into-use information on the ITU website and the BR International Frequency Information Circular (IFIC).

The outcome is consistent with Australian objectives, and provides transparency in relation to the regulatory status of satellite networks.

Issue C—Review or possible cancellation of the advance publication mechanism for satellite networks subject to coordination under section II of Article 9 of the Radio RegulationsThe outcome concluded that the BR would automatically generate a ‘snapshot’ of a network upon receipt of a CR, which would be published within several working days of receipt and serve the same basic purpose of the API mechanism, but without the need for an administration submission or a six-month wait. A new Resolution 31 (WRC-15) covering transitional implementation procedures was also approved, clarifying that APIs cannot be submitted after 1 July 2016 and remaining APIs without submitted CR/Cs will be suppressed by 31 December 2016 as the automatic generation of APIs start from 1 January 2017.

The outcome does not align with Australia’s Position, but is consistent with Australian interests, and achieved consensus. Once the new provisions are in effect, there will be no need for a satellite operator to avoid a 12-degree arc around a potentially overlapping API when it is planning a new network.

Issue D—General use of modern electronic means of communications in coordination and notification proceduresThis issue was resolved early in the conference. Financial implications were clarified by Committee 3 (WRC-15 Budget Committee) and noted in the minutes of the plenary.

The outcome is consistent with Australian objectives and is a useful step towards universal usage of the most modern means of electronic communications for correspondence and filing information, both between administrations and between administrations and the ITU.

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Issue E—Failure of a satellite during the bringing into use periodNo changes were made to this procedure as it was considered a very rare or unlikely event. The outcome is consistent with Australian objectives.

Issue F—Modification to RR Appendix 30B in relation to the suspension of use of a frequency assignment recorded in the MIFRThe outcome clarifies the three-year suspension period that was already current procedure thru a Rule of Procedure. The outcome is consistent with Australian objectives.

Issue G—Clarification of bringing into use information provided under RR Nos. 11.44/11.44BThe Australian input to WRC-15 on Issue G was unsuccessful, but the outcome is not inconsistent with Australian objectives. An additional investigative power has been added to the BR’s range of responsibility, which could improve the integrity of the BiU process.

Issue H—Using one space station to bring frequency assignments at different orbital locations into use within a short period of timeThe Australian proposal to limit the suspension period to the cumulative time in use at a given orbital location was not supported, nor was it discussed at any stage of the meetings. However, very few participants were of the view that a problem does not exist or might not exist in future, and all were supportive of appropriately scoping the issue of ‘satellite hopping’, which the new Resolution 40 (WRC-15) addresses. Based on the progress of implementation of this Resolution, it is possible that further studies will be prompted and provisions developed in future.

Issue I—Possible method to mitigate excessive satellite network filings issueNo modifications regarding excessive CR/Cs were made at the WRC-15. The outcome is consistent with Australian objectives.

Issue J—Removal of the link between date of notification information and date of bringing into use in RR No. 11.44BAn unintentional and undesirable link between the timing of submission of notification and BiU has been removed. The outcome is consistent with Australian objectives.

Issue K—Addition of a regulator provision in RR Article 11 for the case of launch failureProvisions for launch failure were introduced at WRC-12. WRC-15 reconfirmed decision of the WRC-12 thereby making no change to the Radio Regulations. The outcome is consistent with Australian objectives.

Issue L—Modification of certain provisions of Article 4 of RR Appendices 30 and 30A for Regions 1 and 3 namely replacement of tacit agreement with explicit agreement or alignment of those provisions of RR Appendices 30 and 30A for Regions 1 and 3 with those of Appendix 30BWRC-15 agreed aligning Appendices 30 and 30A with Appendix 30B consistent with CPM Report Method L2. The outcome is consistent with Australian objectives, and may help to protect the planned assignments of developing countries.

Topics covered in response to WRC-15 inputs

7X1—Modification of RR No. 13.6WRC-15 reviewed RR No. 13.6 in response to an input document from RCC. Three changes were made in an attempt to improve the integrity of the provision. It is now explicitly stated in No. 13.6 that the BR must give its reasons when applying this provision. The second change imposes a three-month time limit within which the BR must either come to a conclusion and communicate the result to the concerned administration, or report its progress to the administration if the BR is unable to finalise its consideration within this timeframe. Finally, a sentence was added to the end of No. 13.6, which ensures the application of all applicable provisions for the duration of the application of the No. 13.6 process.

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Australia had no position on this issue going into the conference. Australian interests do not appear to be compromised by the modifications to No. 13.6.

7X2—Accepting interference in application of RR Nos. 11.32A/11.41This matter concerns the application of RR Nos. 11.32A/11.41 of the notification stage of a satellite network, and was discussed in response to an input from CEPT.

No outcome agreed. Australian interests are not compromised by the lack of an outcome on this item.

7X3—Orbital position limitations in RR Appendix 30This was a proposal from the APT, seeking no change to the orbital position limitations in Appendix 30. No contributions were received by WRC-15 and the issue was not discussed at the conference.

7X4—Modification of No. 6.14 of RR Appendix 30BRR No. 6.14 of Appendix 30B was revised to clarify that information is to be provided by the BR in response to a request for assistance. There do not appear to be significant consequences for Australian satellite operators as a result of this change.

7X5—Modification of RR Appendices 30/30A recorded assignmentsThe Administration of Israel introduced a proposal to revise RR Appendices 30/30A to provide a mechanism for modifying the characteristics of a recorded assignment in the Appendices 30/30A List. Although the proposed changes were not successful, a paragraph was developed for inclusion in the plenary minutes, which highlights Israel’s concern and the need for further study under a future WRC agenda item 7.

The outcome is neutral for Australia. It may be beneficial for Appendices 30/30A to accommodate requests for modification of assignments in the List, provided there are no adverse unintended consequences.

7X6—Modification of maximum number of test points for RR Appendices 30/30A/30BThis issue resulted in the maximum number of test points in Appendices 30/30A/30B being increased from twenty to one hundred points, as given by changes to Table C of Appendix 4. This change was proposed to better accommodate the practice whereby planned networks have regional or global service areas, rather than national service areas.

As a result of this change, filings for Appendices 30/30A/30B networks covering global or regional service areas will not be as cumbersome as they previously have been.

7X7—Interrelationship between RR Nos. 11.44/11.44B and 11.49/11.49.1This issue saw a proposal to modify No. 11.44B to remove the ninety-day BiU period, and a further modification to No. 11.49 stating that a suspension cannot take place unless the satellite has been in use for at least 90 days. No outcome could be agreed.

The provisions for BiU are likely to be the subject of ongoing discussions under agenda item 7 of the WRC-19 study cycle.

7X8—RR Appendices 30/30A provisional to definitiveThe Administration of Norway, proposed changes, for inclusion in the WRC plenary minutes, to the process of converting a provisional Appendices 30/30A List assignment to a definitive assignment.

After brief discussion, it was agreed to reduce this to a paragraph for inclusion in the plenary minutes highlighting the issue and the need for further study.

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Topics covered in response to the Report of the Director on the activities of the Radiocommunication Sector

NGSO-NGSO coordinationAfter considerable opposition in the drafting group, agreement was reached to include a paragraph in the plenary minutes stating that further study was required.

Bringing into use of NGSO systemsThe proposal for further study of this matter was included in a paragraph for the plenary minutes. No reference to the establishment of retroactive provisions.

Notification of typical earth stationsA paragraph is to be included in the plenary minutes instructing the BR to request administrations, via Circular Letter, to provide information on typical earth station deployments on their territory. It is the BR’s understanding that the information, once submitted, will be provided to the Study Groups and prompt further study.

Agenda item 8—Deletion of country footnotesto consider and take appropriate action on requests from administrations to delete their country footnotes or to have their country name deleted from footnotes, if no longer required, taking into account Resolution 26 (Rev.WRC-07)

Australian PositionAustralia supports administrations taking the initiative to propose deletion of their country names from footnotes or the deletion of country footnotes to the Table of Frequency Allocations in Article 5 of the Radio Regulations, if no longer required, as consistent with further resolves 2 of Resolution 26 (Rev.WRC-07).

Australia does not support use of this agenda item to facilitate the adding of country names to footnotes or the addition of new country footnotes. Requests by administrations to add their country name to existing footnotes is a separate matter to be dealt with by a WRC.

Outcome for AustraliaThere were no issues of substance that affected Australia’s interests where Australia’s name is included in existing RR Article 5 footnotes considered by the conference.

Agenda item 9.1.1—Protection of the systems operating in the mobile-satellite service in the band 406–406.1 MHzResolution 205 (Rev.WRC-12) Protection of the systems operating in the mobile-satellite service in the band 406–406.1 MHz

Australian PositionAustralia supports protection of mobile-satellite service (MSS) systems in the frequency band 406–406.1 MHz from any emissions that could cause harmful interference through appropriate ITU-R regulatory, technical and operational studies.

Outcome for AustraliaResolution 205 was modified to implement guard bands to protect the frequency band 406–406 1 MHz from unwanted emissions.

While the issue of protection of systems operating in the mobile-satellite service in the band 406–406 1 MHz is not currently an issue in Australia it is recognised as one of regional importance and supported by Australia.

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Agenda item 9.1.2—Reduction of the coordination arcResolution 756 (WRC-12) Studies on possible reduction of the coordination arc and technical criteria used in application of No. 9.41 in respect of coordination under No. 9.7

Australian PositionIn response to resolves to invite ITU-R 1 of Resolution 756 (WRC-12)—Modification of technical criteria used in RR No. 9.41, Australia supports no change to the technical criteria (Option 1D).

In response to resolves to invite ITU-R 2 of Resolution 756 (WRC-12), Australia considers that the Ka-band is in early stage of utilisation, and thereby has a lower level of congestion than in the C/Ku-bands. Therefore, Australia supports a reduction in the coordination arc in the C/Ku-bands but does not support a reduction in the coordination arc in the Ka-band (Option 2A).

Australia is of the view that regardless of any possible reduction in coordination arc, an administration should be able to retain the ability to request coordination via application of RR No. 9.41.

Australia supports retention of Resolution 756 (WRC-12) with modification to limit the Resolution to study whether it is appropriate to reduce coordination arc in the 30/20 GHz band.

Outcome for AustraliaWRC-15 agreed on outcomes for the coordination process: > reduction of the coordination arc in C and Ku band by one degree> interference threshold in Articles 9 and 11 unchanged> application of a pfd threshold in C-band (Earth-to-space only) and Ku-band (E-to-s and s-to-E)

outside the coordination arcs.

The outcome is partially aligned with the Australian Position.

Agenda item 9.1.3—Regulatory measures to support international public telecommunication services in developing countriesResolution 11 (WRC-12) Use of satellite orbital positions and associated frequency spectrum to deliver international public telecommunication services in developing countries

Australian PositionAustralia supports no change to the Radio Regulations as described in Option A of the CPM Report to WRC-15 and retention of Resolution 11 (WRC-12).

Current provisions of the Radio Regulations are considered adequate to ensure availability of international public telecommunication services delivered through satellite technology.

Outcome for AustraliaNo change to the Radio Regulations, apart from suppression of Resolution 11 (WRC-12), consistent with the Australian Position.

This matter will continue to be addressed by the ITU under Resolution ITU-R 69, and the results of studies reported to WRC-19. This is consistent with the Australian Position.

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Agenda item 9.1.4—Updating and rearrangement of the Radio RegulationsResolution 67 (WRC-12) Updating and rearrangement of the Radio Regulations

Australian PositionAustralia supports Option A2 of Issue A—removal of unused abbreviations in No 2.1 of Article 2 and Option B2 of Issue B—modification of titles for Articles 37, 39, 40, 42, 43, 44, 47, 49, 50, 52 and 53, as described in the CPM Report to WRC-15.

These Options improve readability of the Radio Regulations through minor and inconsequential revisions.

Outcome for AustraliaIssue A—removal of unused abbreviations in No 2.1 of Article 2 was uncontentious and agreed.

Issue B—modification of titles in various Radio Regulations Articles was not agreed by the conference. However, in agreeing the no change outcome it was further decided headers on each page of Volume I of the Radio Regulations would be revised to show the title of each Chapter at the top of the page.

Overall, the outcomes are entirely acceptable to Australia.

Agenda item 9.1.5—Consideration of technical and regulatory actions in order to support existing and future operation of fixed-satellite service earth stations within the band 3 400–4 200 MHzResolution 154 (WRC-12) Consideration of technical and regulatory actions in order to support existing and future operation of fixed-satellite service earth stations within the band 3 400-4 200 MHz, as an aid to the safe operation of aircraft and reliable distribution of meteorological information in some countries in Region 1

Australian PositionAustralia will monitor studies noting this is a Region 1 issue.

Australia would not support any aspects of this agenda item being applied to Region 3.

Outcome for AustraliaThe revisions to Resolution 154 are acceptable to Australia. The text does not implicate Region 3 (Asia-Pacific) or Australia.

Agenda item 9.1.6—Definitions of fixed service, fixed station and mobile stationResolution 957 (WRC-12) Studies towards review of the definitions of fixed service, fixed station and mobile station

Australian PositionAustralia supports no change to the Radio Regulations apart from the suppression of Resolution 957 (WRC-12).

Australia supports the APT Common Proposal on the agenda item.

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Outcome for AustraliaNo change to the Radio Regulations was an early outcome of WRC-15, this is consistent with the Australian Position.

Agenda item 9.1.7—Guidelines for emergency and disaster relief radiocommunicationResolution 647 (Rev.WRC-12) Spectrum management guidelines for emergency and disaster relief radiocommunication

Australian PositionAustralia supports Option C of the CPM Report to WRC-15—suppression of Resolution 647 (Rev.WRC-12) and the consequential modification of Resolution 644 (Rev.WRC-12).

Outcome for AustraliaThis Issue sought to improve the provision by administrations of emergency details, frequencies and contacts on an ITU-R website database. Australia and other administrations can support some contact detail, but provision of extra detail that would normally be managed domestically is counterproductive.

Resolution 647 (Rev.WRC-12) references the database and Resolution 644 (Rev.WRC-12) references the need for ongoing ITU-R studies on disaster relief communications. The two Resolutions are somewhat duplicative and Australia sought to have some amalgamation, which preferably would have seen Resolution 647 suppressed.

However, the reverse was approved by WRC-15 whereby Resolution 647 was retained and revised to include relevant parts of Resolution 644, which was suppressed.

While the result was not aligned with Australia’s Position, the implications for Australia are minimal. Australia does not see the need for an international database of national public protection and disaster relief (PPDR) arrangements. Frequency arrangements for PPDR use by country are sufficiently covered under Resolution 646 (with reference to Recommendation ITU-R M.2015) and channels for the establishment for bi/multilateral emergency management arrangements (including spectrum management requirements) are captured in separate frameworks outside of the ITU’s remit.

Agenda item 9.1.8—Nano- and picosatellitesResolution 757 (WRC-12) Regulatory aspects for nano- and picosatellites

Australian PositionRecognising the increasing deployment and operation of nanosatellites and picosatellites, their short development time, short mission time and unique orbital characteristics, and that nanosatellites and picosatellites use the same frequency bands as other space services, it is important that any changes to the Radio Regulations do not lead to the potential for harmful interference to existing allocated services.

Creating a different regulatory regime for nanosatellites and picosatellites in the Radio Regulations would add complexity and unnecessary burden to the regulatory procedures for limited benefit. Should WRC-15 or a future competent conference decide on changes to the Radio Regulations to accommodate nanosatellites and picosatellite systems, the changes should not inadvertently affect the established regulatory procedures for other satellite systems.

Should it be decided that the existing provisions of the Radio Regulations for coordination and notification of satellite network filings need to be modified to take into account nanosatellite and picosatellite missions, Australia considers such studies be carried out as an explicit item under the standing future agenda item of a WRC for the consideration of regulatory procedures for notifying satellite networks, rather than continuing with an explicit item on the agenda of WRC-19.

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WRC-15 should suppress Resolution 757 (WRC-12), and in its place, the Director of the Radiocommunication Bureau may wish to establish a suitable ITU-R Question for SG 4 to address nanosatellites and picosatellites and their possible regulatory implications.

Outcome for AustraliaThe ITU Radiocommunication Assembly meeting the week before WRC-15 adopted new Resolution ITU-R 68 Improving the dissemination of knowledge concerning the applicable regulatory procedures for small satellites, including nanosatellites and picosatellites. At WRC-15, it was decided further studies on nanosatellites and picosatellites can be undertaken as part of the standing agenda item 7 of the WRC. Subsequently, the Resolution 757 (WRC-12) was supressed. This outcome was entirely in line with the Australian Position.

Agenda item 9.2—Difficulties or inconsistencies encountered in the application of the Radio Regulationson any difficulties or inconsistencies encountered in the application of the Radio Regulations

Australian PositionAustralia supports measures to address any difficulties or inconsistencies encountered in the application of the Radio Regulations.

Outcome for AustraliaThe Australian objectives were achieved for this agenda item. Fundamentally, Australia agrees that agenda item 9.2 should not be a vehicle for issues not socialised through the usual ITU-R Study Group process that may facilitate changes to the Table of Frequency Allocations in Article 5 of the Radio Regulations. However, Australia does support the right of administrations to explore the issues raised by the Director of the Radiocommunication Bureau in his report to a World Radiocommunication Conference through the ITU-R Study Group process and in contributions to WRCs.

Sub issue 9.2 on Earth stations on moving platforms (ESOMPs)

Element of agenda item 9.2 Report of the Director on the activities of the Radiocommunication Sector Document 004 Addendum 2 section 3.1.1 ESOMPs - UC class of station.

Outcome for AustraliaThe Australian objectives for this item were achieved, in particular regarding measures to manage interference between FSS networks in a new Radio Regulations Resolution 156 (WRC-15) and further studies in the WRC-19 cycle detailed in Resolution 158 (WRC-15).

Agenda item 10—New agenda itemsto recommend to the Council items for inclusion in the agenda for the next WRC, and to give its views on the preliminary agenda for the subsequent conference and on possible agenda items for future conferences, in accordance with Article 7 of the Convention.

Australian PositionIn developing new WRC agenda items, Australia supports the ‘Principles for establishing agendas for WRCs’ as detailed in Annex 1 to Resolution 804 (Rev.WRC-12).

Australia supports a future WRC agenda item considering ‘possible identification of IMT in bands above 6 GHz’ contingent on the agenda item focussing ITU-R studies on a viable suite of frequency bands, rather than an open ended examination of all bands above 6 GHz.

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This support is also contingent on the inclusion of a requirement that studies for this future agenda item be carried out in a manner that ensures appropriate engagement with potentially affected ITU-R Study Groups.

Australia also supports future agenda items on Global Maritime Distress and Safety Service (GMDSS), Global Aeronautical Distress and Safety System (GADSS) and Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS).

Outcome for AustraliaOverall, the Australian Position on agenda item 10 was successful.

The Australian Position to support a future agenda item to consider IMT identifications in frequency bands ‘above 6 GHz’ subject to the agenda item being focussed on a limited number of frequency bands was successful through the adoption of agenda item 1.13 and Resolution 238 (WRC-15). However, not all the frequency bands that Australia supported for study were included in the Resolution. Despite this, there remains an extensive selection of frequency bands to be considered, albeit nothing below 24.25 GHz (Australia had supported, along with a number of other administrations, 10–10.5 GHz being included for study).

The Australian Position to support future agenda items on Global Maritime Distress and Safety Service (GMDSS), Global Aeronautical Distress and Safety System (GADSS) and Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) was successful through the inclusion of agenda items 1.8, 1.10 and 1.12 respectively for WRC-19.

The total number of substantial agenda items agreed for WRC-19 is 16. A number of additional agenda items, including IoT and wireless power transmissions, were moved under agenda item 6, which is calls for identification of urgent actions in preparations for the subsequent conference. At the first session of the Conference Preparatory Meeting for WRC-19 the week after WRC-15, these items were moved again to agenda item 9.1 Issues under the Director’s Report to the Conference.

However, the inclusion of some agenda items, in particular those considering studies on ‘unauthorised operation of Earth station terminals’ and ‘machine-type communications’ under agenda item 9.1 were not the preferred outcome of Australia given that RA-15 had addressed these matters under Resolutions ITU-R 64 and 66 respectively. While of somewhat questionable utility following the RA outcomes, these WRC-19 issues do not materially impact on Australia and are adequately contained within WRC-19 agenda item 9.1.

Global Flight Tracking for civil aviation (GFT) to include in its agenda, as a matter of urgency, the consideration of global flight tracking, including, if appropriate, and consistent with ITU practices, various aspects of the matter, taking into account ITU-R studies, in accordance with Resolution 185 (Busan, 2014)

Australian PositionAustralia supports consideration of global flight tracking for civil aviation at WRC-15 in accordance with ITU Plenipotentiary Resolution 185 (Busan, 2014).

As a means to address this issue, Australia supports a primary allocation in the frequency range 1 087.7–1 092.3 MHz to the aeronautical mobile-satellite (route) service (Earth-to-space), with the condition that this allocation cannot claim protection from aeronautical radionavigation service (ARNS) systems operating in the frequency range 960–1 215 MHz.

Australia supports a WRC-19 agenda item to consider additional and ongoing regulatory and allocation issues necessary to further refine the issue of global flight tracking for civil aviation. This may include consideration of regulatory and allocation issues in association with Global Aeronautical Distress and Safety System (GADSS).

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Outcome for AustraliaWRC-15 agreed use of the frequency band 1 087.7–1 092.3 MHz by the aeronautical mobile-satellite (route) service for GFT through a footnote to the RR Table of Frequency Allocations, on the condition AMS(R)S cannot claim protection from aeronautical radionavigation service (ARNS), in accordance with the new Resolution 426 (WRC-15).

The WRC-15 outcomes fully satisfies the Australian Position and reflects the views in the Australian led multi-country proposal to WRC-15 (included the administrations of Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore and Thailand). This is a good outcome for aviation as it enables space-based ADS-B technology to be used for GFT for civil aviation.

Further, WRC-15 approved Resolution 426 (WRC-15) on Global Aeronautical Distress and Safety System (GADSS). This new agenda item will further refine the issue of GFT, a component of GADSS, for civil aviation.

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List of acronymsAcronym Meaning

ADS-B Automatic Dependant Surveillance - Broadcast

AIS Automatic Identification System

AMS aeronautical mobile service

AM(R)S aeronautical mobile (route) service

AMS(R)S aeronautical mobile-satellite (route) service

APG Asia-Pacific Telecommunity Conference Preparatory Group (for World Radiocommunication Conference)

API advanced publication information

APT Asia-Pacific Telecommunity

ARNS aeronautical radionavigation service

ASM application specific message

BiU bringing-into-use

BR Radiocommunication Bureau

BS broadcasting service

BSS broadcasting-satellite service

CEPT Conférence Européen des Administrations des Postes et des Telecommunications (European Conference of Postal and Telecommunications Administrations)—ITU-R Region 1 Administrations

CNPC control and non-payload communications

CPM Conference Preparatory Meeting (ITU-R)

CTCSS Continuous Tone Coded Squelch Systems

DCS Digital Coded Squelch

EESS Earth exploration-satellite service

e.i.r.p. equivalent isotropically radiated power

EPIRB emergency position-indicating radio beacon

ESOMPs Earth stations on mobile platforms

ESV earth stations on board vessels ( also known as earth stations located on board vessels)

FS fixed service

FSS fixed-satellite service

GADSS Global Aeronautical Distress and Safety System

GFT Global Flight Tracking for Civil Aviation

GMDSS Global Maritime Distress and Safety System

IALA International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities

ICAO International Civil Aviation Organization

IFIC International Frequency Information Circular (ITU-R)

IMT International Mobile Telecommunications

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Acronym Meaning

ITS intelligent transport systems

ITU International Telecommunication Union

ITU-R Radiocommunication Sector of the ITU

MIFR Master International Frequency Register

MMSS maritime mobile-satellite service

MOD modify

MS mobile service

MSS mobile-satellite service

NGSO non-geostationary orbit

pfd power flux-density

PG WRC-15 The Preparatory Group for the World Radiocommunication Conference 2015 (the ACMA)

PPDR Public Protection and Disaster Relief

RALI Radiocommunications assignment and licensing instruction

RCC Regional Commonwealth in the field of Communications (ex-soviet countries)

RES Resolution

RLS radiolocation service

RR Radio Regulations

RRB Radio Regulations Board

SAR Synthetic aperture radar

SARPs ICAO Standards and recommended practices

SC Special Committee on Regulatory and Procedural Matters (ITU-R)

SG Study Group (of the ITU-R)

SRS space research service

SUP Suppress

TT&C tracking, telemetry and control ( also known as tracking, telemetry and telecommand)

UA unmanned aircraft

UAS unmanned aircraft systems (also known as unmanned aerial systems)

UTC Coordinated Universal Time

VDE VHF Data Exchange

VDES VHF Data Exchange System

VHF very high frequency

WAIC Wireless Avionics Intra Communications

WRC World Radiocommunication Conference

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