Remaking the emergency locating devices class licence

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. 

We believe the class licence is operating effectively. We propose to revoke it and remake it with only minor changes. 

These changes are to:

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

Details of the proposal are in the consultation paper in the key documents box above. 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. You can also access the notice from the key documents box above. 

We welcome your feedback about this proposal. Click the ‘Upload submission’ button at the top of this page, or respond in writing to: 

The Manager 
Spectrum Licensing Policy 
Australian Communications and Media Authority 
PO Box 13112 
Law Courts 
Melbourne VIC 8010 

or by email to: 

SLPSConsultations@acma.gov.au.