TPG chief David Teoh, pictured, has welcomed the Federal Government decision to auction the remaining 700MHz spectrum left over from the 2013 “digital dividend” sale.

TPG had strongly opposed a draft ministerial direction that, if implemented, would have seen Vodafone pay $590 million for most of the spectrum.

All the available spectrum will now be put up for auction next year in a move expected to bring spirited bidding from TPG as well as Telstra, Optus and possibly Vodafone – as well as some possible bids from minor players.

Said Teoh: “As I have previously stated, we believe that wireless connectivity will play an increasing role in the future needs of the Australian telecommunications consumers.

“We have recently invested in 1800MHz spectrum” – as did Vodafone, Optus and Telstra – “and would be keen to augment that purchase with 700MHz spectrum.”