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I don't fully agree with the CRA blueprint for rolling out DAB+ radio in regional areas. I submit that there is scope for deploying DRM digital radio technology, so that AM frequencies can also migrate successfuly to a digital platform. I concede that there may be a case for favouring a consistent digital codec across the nation, and perhaps DAB+ should be the standard digital radio format. But the problem I see is that some existing operators, primarily narrowcasters, both FM and even moreso AM licence holders, are going to be excluded from the digital future.
Since analogue radio is not likely to be switched off anytime in the coming decade, it makes sense that ACMA be permitted to release more analogue frequencies where they are available. And in regional areas, theire probably are not that many more planned frequencies that can be allocated, either as commercial, community or High-power Open Narrowcast services. Rather than having a moratorium, releasing all these potential frequencies soon, mostly as narrowcast licences, would consolidate the analogue landscape and from that point, the digital future can be properly discussed and planned.
Linking this planning process to the timetable for switching of analogue TV is a good idea, but a moratorium on new analogue services in regional areas is not necessary. As Channel 3 and 5 TV stations switch to DVB digital, parts of FM spectrum can be reassigned to provide radio services in areas where there is demand for new stations, especially narrowcast services. Certainly, the government can allow new LPON applications in areas where these are now excluded because of Channel 3 TV. This is a responsible use of spectrum in response to the digital dividend.