The spectrum was acquired through an auction conducted by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), with a total of $92.6 million being paid by bidders for the multiband  spectrum.

The auction started on 28 November and concluded on 12 December after 85 rounds of bidding by the various players. A total price of approximately $92.6 million was paid by bidders for the spectrum.

A breakdown of the auction shows what each bidder paid for their share of spectrum:

Optus     $6,513,000

Telstra     $72,530,000

TPG     $2,330,000

Vodafone $7,237,000

NBN Co     $4,013,000

Commenting on the auction outcome, a Telstra spokesperson said: “We’re pleased with the outcome of the auction. The additional spectrum we have secured will mean we can continue to deliver the best experience for our customers and meet the ever growing demand for data.

"Our investment of $72.5 million in this auction, together with more than $3.4 billion we have invested over the past 15 years in acquiring our wireless spectrum portfolio, underpins Telstra’s ability to support more customers and more traffic on Australia’s largest mobile network. Some of this spectrum will also support the early evolution of 5G technology beyond the trials we already have planned for 2018.”

“There was good competition across the 1800 MHz, 2 GHz, 2.3 GHz and 3.4 GHz bands. The additional spectrum will mean improved services and greater choice for consumers in those areas where lots have been allocated,’ said ACMA Chair, Nerida O’Loughlin.

The ACMA says a further six lots were not offered at auction as only one applicant had nominated interest for each of the lots, but these will be offered lots to the applicant for a pre-determined price - which is the starting price - in accordance with Part 5 of the Allocation Determination for the multiband residual lots auction.