15Varying plans and characteristics

15 Varying plans and characteristics

(1) the ACMA may vary the characteristics, including technical specifications, of:

(a) a broadcasting service available in a coverage area or part of a coverage area; and

(b) capacity in a broadcasting services band that is reserved for a national broadcasting service under section 31 of the Act.

Note Under subcl 24 (1) of Sch 4 to the Act, if there is a frequency allotment plan or a licence area plan in force for the area, the ACMA may amend the plan through the national television conversion scheme.

(2) If the ACMA wishes to vary a characteristic, it must carry out the same consultations as are required under clause 33 of Schedule 4 to the Act for the variation of this Scheme.

(3) If the ACMA varies a technical characteristic (including a technical specification) of a national broadcasting service, the ACMA must vary the transmitter licence issued under section 100B of the Radiocommunications Act 1992.

(4) the ACMA must issue or vary transmitter licences in a way that makes them consistent with the characteristics.

Note 1 See subsection 111 (5) of the Radiocommunications Act 1992.

Note 2 Schedule 4 to the Act imposes a timetable for conversion of commercial television broadcasting services to digital transmission, with simulcasts starting at different times in different licence areas. The Schedule also makes arrangements for conversion of national television broadcasting services to digital transmission, and sets deadlines by which this should happen. To support these arrangements, the ACMA may have to set priorities for carrying out its responsibilities.