FT8 Warning to UK Hams

Ofcom has started to contact UK amateur radio operators that may have fallen outside the UK band allocation when operating FT8.

Warning emails are being sent, advising the date and time of the transmission, and making recommendations to check the configuration software used to operate FT8.

Any operation of a callsign without permission can be reported to interference.report@ofcom.org.uk

Australian Band Plan Gets Sweeping Review

The last major changes to Australia's national band plan were put in place nearly a decade ago, prompting the Wireless Institute of Australia to launch a sweeping review of everything, proposing changes across almost all bands.

Regulatory changes and shifts in on-air activity are two of the major drivers behind a wide-ranging overhaul being considered for Australia's ham bands. The WIA's Technical Advisory Committee opened a community consultation on the 17th of October and is expecting hams who have made requests over the years to formally weigh in on these proposals until the deadline on the 12th December 2025.

The proposed changes accommodate growth in the use of new modes and new areas of interest, particularly those involving the use of digital technology. They include revising ATV segments based on widespread adoption of Digital ATV modes; a review of repeater sub-bands considering the growth of digital voice hotspots on 2m and 70cm. Band plan data for the Microwave bands between 24 and 134 GHz are also being reviewed.

On HF, the proposal will try to achieve better alignment of band plans, including 630 metres and 160 metres.

The WIA is seeking responses only from licensed hams and clubs based in Australia. Revisions are expected to be published by the end of the first quarter of next year.