9Preparing draft digital channel plan

9 Preparing draft digital channel plan

(1) If the ACMA wishes to make a digital channel plan, it must prepare a draft version of the plan, having regard to the matters in this section.

(2) the ACMA must have regard to:

(a) the need to plan the most efficient use of the spectrum; and

(b) the relevant policy objectives in clause 19 of Schedule 4 to the Act.

(3) the ACMA may also have regard to the cost to national broadcasters, tower owners, tower operators and site operators of:

(a) allotting particular channels; and

(b) digital transmission using the channels.

(4) the ACMA may also have regard to the likely cost and disruption to consumers caused by having to receive national television broadcasting services in digital mode using allotted channels.

(5) the ACMA may also have regard to any interference that digital transmission using a particular channel is likely to cause to analog transmission.

(6) If a regional equalisation plan is in force for a particular area, the ACMA may also have regard to the plan.

(7) the ACMA may also have regard to other matters it considers relevant.