The mobile telecommunications industry has reconfirmed its commitment to supporting scientific research of health and safety aspects of radiofrequency.

AMTA Chief Executive Officer, Chris Althaus, said the industry supports the provision of accurate and reliable information by government, health authorities and industry to assist people to make informed choices in relation to mobile technology and health.

In Australia, the key aspect of industry's support for research involves funding derived from the annual licence fees paid to the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).

ACMA collects the licence fees and contributes an amount to the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), which allocates funds to scientific research programs and projects into health issues and EME from mobile phone handsets and base stations. Some funds are also allocated for community education via the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA).

AMTA estimates about $9 million has been committed from the industry licence fees towards this research program and an ongoing public education since the levy arrangements began a decade ago.

The Federal Government has advised industry that the instrument to hypothecate the industry funds from the licences for EME research expires in 2009 and the arrangements are under review.

Mr Althaus said AMTA supports the extension of the current funding and allocation arrangements to ensure industry's continued support for research into EME and related issues.

AMTA has a strong preference that funds from the existing arrangements should continue to be collected and allocated via program grants to fund EME research, including the operation of an independent body that has the expertise and knowledge in the very specialised area of EME research. Such a body provides the critical mass that is crucial in this field.

The industry notes that the Australian Centre for RF Bioeffects Research (ACRBR), which was formed in 2003, has provided a hub for research and has gained an international reputation for its work.

AMTA believes the Government’s review of the industry contribution for EME research is timely and should ensure the funds are used in the most efficient and effective manner and would welcome an opportunity to discuss EME research in more detail.