What a class licence is for
A class licence lets you operate common radio equipment on shared frequencies.
Each class licence tells you:
- what equipment you can use
- the frequency range
- the rules for using it
You do not need to apply for a class licence or pay any fees.
You may need an apparatus licence instead if you:
- want to use equipment in a way the class licence does not allow
- need an assigned licence
Class licences
There are 17 class licences.
You must follow the rules of the class licence to use the equipment.
27 MHz handphone stations
Use a 27 MHz handphone station.
Aircraft and aeronautical mobile stations
Use mobile radio equipment on or near an aircraft.
Body scanners
For trained people who use body scanners at Australian airports.
Cellular mobile telecom devices
Use devices that communicate with a licensed PTS base station.
Citizen band radio stations
Use CB radio to communicate over short distances.
Communication with a space object
Operate earth stations that communicate with a licensed space station.
Cordless communications devices
Use certain cordless devices.
Emergency locating devices
To help search and rescue groups find survivors.
Intelligent transport systems
Wireless technology for vehicles and traffic systems.
Low interference potential devices (LIPD)
Use a range of low power radiocommunications devices.
Maritime ship station – 27 MHz and VHF
Lets qualified people use marine radio equipment on certain frequencies.
Outpost stations
Use stations (that are not base stations) in remote locations to provide emergency medical aid.
Overseas amateur visiting Australia
Lets visitors to Australia use the amateur frequencies for a short time.
Public safety and emergency response
Only for public safety agencies.
Radio-controlled models
Use a device that controls a model plane, train, car or boat.
Radio navigation satellite service
Use GPS (Global Positioning System) receivers.
Scientific stations
Operating a station for general scientific activities.