Phaze Broadcasting fined over unlicensed transmitters

Phaze Broadcasting Pty Ltd (Phaze FM) has received an $8000 fine via the Federal Court, and is required to forfeit three radio communications transmitters, after being found to operate some unlicensed.

The ruling, on May 7 2024, follows an investigation by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) into allegations Phaze was operating from an unlicensed address in Ballarat, Victoria, breaching a low power open narrowcasting (LPON) licence. Phaze does have other LPON licences but was found in this instance to be operating from one not specified on the licence, potentially interfering with other radiocommunication devices.

Justice O’Callaghan found in his judgement that a failure to comply with the licensing regime is harmful to the community of licensees who rely on the proper regulation of the spectrum for commercial purposes, as well as for defence, national security and other non-commercial purposes; and to the Australian community who rely on, and enjoy the benefits of, a well-managed spectrum.