ACMA marine radio news

According to ACMA, the level of awareness of VHF marine radio protocols has reached an all-time high, for which it credits educational activities undertaken by various bodies, online and at major boating events.

At the Melbourne Boat Show in June, ACMA worked with Transport Safety Victoria (TSV), the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) and the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) to inform attendees about VHF marine radio issues. ACMA staff reported great interest in the Australian Maritime College’s VHF marine radio handbook, AMSA’s Digital Selective Calling brochure, and a map showing the network supporting VHF radio coverage along the Victorian coastline.

ACMA has also had a presence at recent marine expos in Broome, Mackay, Sydney and Adelaide. Next week, ACMA staff will be on hand at the Sydney International Boat Show (1 to 5 August, Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre), sharing a stand with the NSW Maritime Authority and the BOM.

In other marine radio news, ACMA has reminded users that radio silence periods are no longer required on distress and calling frequencies. Nonetheless, ACMA says it is recommended that operators on MF/HF frequencies observe silence periods - of three minutes’ duration, starting on the hour and half-hour - so that operators in difficulties can be heard.

ACMA also reports that the new Australian Waters Qualification (AWQ) syllabus is nearly finalised. ACMA has requested that the Transport and Logistics Industry Skills Council include the syllabus in the Maritime Training Framework. Once this is done, ACMA will arrange for the AWQ to be included in Marine Radio Class Licence, and will liaise with RTOs to teach it as part of their courses.