(Telecompaper) Optus, Telstra, TPG and Vodafone all secured spectrum in Australia's 1,800 MHz band auction, resulting in total proceeds of AUD 543.5 million, the Australian Communications and Media Authority announced. Optus will pay the most, at AUD 196 million, Testra AUS 191 million, TPG Internet AUD 88 million and Vodafone AUD 68 million. The auction of regional lots of 2x5MHz started in November last year and ran for 29 working days. The new frequencies are expected to help the operators strengthen 4G coverage throughout the country. The 1,800 MHz band is already used extensively in major cities. The technology-neutral licences are valid until June 2028.