Who They Are
The Radio Advisory Board of Canada (RABC-CCCR) is the national collaborative authority on the management and utilization of Canada’s radio-frequency spectrum. Serving as an “association of associations,” it represents a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including manufacturers, broadcasters, wireless carriers, public safety organizations, and other spectrum users. The Board offers independent, expert technical advice to both the Government of Canada and the wider industry.
What They Do
Spectrum Policy & Technical Consultation
The RABC acts as Canada’s trusted advisor on direction, formulation, and best practices associated with spectrum regulation. It actively participates in government consultations and contributes expertise to the development of technical standards, regulatory frameworks, and spectrum management policies.
Committee Governance & Working Groups
The Board oversees six functional committees that specialize in key technical areas:
- Mobile & Personal Communications Committee (M&PC): Oversees spectrum considerations for cellular/5G, land mobile radio, satellite, and flexible-use services.
- Subcommittees include:
- Advance Wireless Services (AWS): Focused on reviewing regulations in standard radio system plans, chaired by TELUS’s Geoff Catliff.
- Public Safety: Focused on public safety spectrum requirements, chaired by Martin McCulloch of Waterloo Police/CACP.
- Additional committees include:
- Spectrum Management Innovation
- 5G Radio Altimeter Working Group
- Broadcasting
- Electromagnetic Compatibility
- Fixed Wireless Communications
- Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) — focused on spectrum needs for drone systems.
Committee membership is by nomination, invitation, or appointment via sponsor members.