Managing access to sensitive and high-risk technologies in the public interest

The Australian Communications and Media Authority plans and manages the radiofrequency spectrum in Australia to avoid interference between the devices people use every day, such as mobile phones, televisions, radios and satellites. Some equipment, such as jammers, poses risks to the effectiveness of communicating using these devices, and the critical emergency, business and societal functions they support.

The ACMA banned this equipment as it interferes with critical emergency services and may disrupt GPS, mobile phones, Wi-Fi devices and drones. It initially allowed exemptions from these bans only for defence, national security and law enforcement.

Wi-Fi and mobile jammers that are banned under the Radiocommunications Act 1992. 
Image: Australian Communications and Media Authority

In 2021, the ACMA introduced the innovation and industry development exemption framework. This allowed research, development and manufacturing industries to apply for limited and controlled access to equipment banned under the Radiocommunications Act 1992. The ACMA expanded the number of exemption holders in 2024 ꟷ 25 and is undertaking renewals so that industry can continue accessing equipment under the framework.

Working together

Staff from across the ACMA, including those with expertise in policy, engineering and radio equipment, worked together to develop the framework. Each application submitted under the framework is considered on its own merits. The ACMA takes a risk-based approach to consider the optimum use of the radiofrequency spectrum while allowing services to co-exist. Authority staff engage extensively with applicants seeking exemptions. Applicants are primarily industry representatives interested in progressing research or testing activities on banned devices and equipment.

The ACMA consults with relevant licensees, industry and government stakeholders on applications received. This is to make stakeholders aware of banned equipment uses that may risk interfering with licensed spectrum, and the significant consequences for emergency services, citizens and businesses that may follow. Where relevant, applications are communicated to a range of entities:

• defence
• law enforcement
• aviation
• mobile network operators
• other spectrum licensees
• Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sports and the Arts.

Consultation means the exemptions granted incorporate diverse perspectives and decisions are informed and balanced. This means all parties potentially impacted by the use of banned equipment are involved in the decision process early. The approach builds confidence and transparency in the regulation of emerging technologies.

Benefits for the community

Through an innovative approach to regulation, the framework complements existing rules but allows access to banned equipment when it is in the public interest. Exemptions apply only if the holder can manage the risks of possessing, operating, and supplying the equipment.

In delivering positive outcomes, the framework ensures access to potentially sensitive or high-risk technologies is managed responsibly and in line with the public interest. Supporting responsible access to innovative technologies stimulates industry development and job creation by allowing access to test and research with banned equipment, in a controlled manner.

The framework creates commercial and innovation opportunities for Australian industries and supports those developing and researching banned radiocommunications equipment for defence and law enforcement. Applications that the ACMA has approved under the framework have led to innovations in the drone detection, counter-drone and defence sectors, enhancing Australia’s domestic threat response capability.

Find out more

Australian Communications and Media Authority (2025) Innovation and industry development exemption framework, ACMA website, accessed 12 August 2025.