ACMA consults on the emergency locating devices class licence

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has announced it is consulting on remaking the Radiocommunications (Emergency Locating Devices) Class Licence 2016, which is due to sunset on 1 October.

ACMA’s view is that the class licence is operating effectively and efficiently, and proposes to revoke it and remake it with minor changes.

The Radiocommunications (Emergency Locating Devices) Class Licence 2016 is due to sunset on 1 October 2026.

The class licence authorises the operation of emergency locating devices that are categorised as either:

• satellite distress beacons, also known as Emergency Position‑Indicating Radio Beacon stations (EPIRBs)
• locating aids on shared frequencies.
   

The proposed changes are to:

• clarify and regularise operational and testing practices
• modernise the drafting.
   

Details of the proposal are in the consultation paper. A copy of the draft Radiocommunications (Emergency Locating Devices) Class Licence 2026 and the notice required under subsection 136(2) of the Radiocommunications Act 1992 are also available.

A Gazette notice about the revocation of the class licence is available on the Federal Register of Legislation.

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