The Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association (AMTA) has openly supported the publication of two new international standards for 5G electric and magnetic fields (EMF).
AMTA is the national body representing Australia's mobile telecommunications industry.
AMTA CEO Louise Hyland says the new 5G mmWave testing standards are a key step in Australia's 5G technology roadmap.
"The opportunities to leverage the 5G ecosystem as a key part of how we live and respond to challenges of our time are boundless," Hyland says.
"So, promoting public trust and [confidence] in mobile networks, devices, and services with the help of these new standards is crucial.
"A top priority for AMTA and its members is to ensure compliance with Australia's safety standards and, as part of that, AMTA remains committed to assisting Government to ensure the latest compliance approaches, based on international best practice, are incorporated into new regulations.
"It is important that we continue to support high levels of public confidence in the health and safety protocols around Australia's mobile telecommunications networks, including 5G, and the public can be assured that our members will continue to deploy and operate their networks in accordance with the very latest safety standards and scientific analysis."
A collaboration between the Committee of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Standards Association (IEEE SA) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), the Standards are designed to offer a central platform for EMF compliance testing of all 5G mmWave devices.
"The new IEC/IEEE 63195 standards for 5G EMF are intended to meet the fast-paced advances in mobile technology and help consumers feel confident that 5G technology is matched with the state-of-the-art EMF safety testing standards," IEC chairman TC106 Mike Wood says.
"The new 5G EMF standard is right at the core of the IEC vision – IEC everywhere for a safer, more efficient world – and demonstrates that the cutting-edge expertise of IEC TC 106 is fundamental to the safe deployment of 5G technology," IEC secretary general Philippe Metzger says.
The AMTA support for these standards comes after IDC recently found that spending on telecommunications and pay-TV services jumped from $494 billion in 2020 to $505 billion in the APAC region in 2021.
There was also an increase in global spending, reaching $1,566 billion in 2021, increasing 1.6% year over year.
The IDC says 2021 was characterised by the quick recovery of the global economy from the slump caused by COVID-19.
As a result, the IDC says there was additional spending growth on telecommunications services, increasing the total value of the worldwide market slightly faster than initially forecast.
"AMTA appreciates and values the work of the IEEE SA and IEC to match 5G technology with the highest safety standards, and we look forward to working with the Government at all levels and our members to realise and embrace the full contribution of 5G to industries and communities," Hyland adds.