ACMA Consultation on the Emergency Locating Devices Class Licence

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is inviting public comment on its proposal to remake the Radiocommunications (Emergency Locating Devices) Class Licence 2016 before the current licence sunsets on 1 October 2026. The class licence authorises the operation of emergency locating devices used in distress situations, including satellite distress beacons such as EPIRBs, maritime survivor locating systems (MOB devices), AIS Search and Rescue Transponders (AIS-SARTs) and radar search and rescue transponders.

The ACMA's preliminary view is that the licence continues to operate effectively and remains an important part of Australia's emergency communications and search-and-rescue framework.

The proposed remake would retain the existing operating arrangements while introducing minor changes to clarify operational and testing practices and modernise the legislative drafting. The consultation paper, draft class licence and statutory notice are available from the ACMA consultation website.

Stakeholders with an interest in emergency communications, maritime safety, aviation safety and radiocommunications regulation are encouraged to review the documents and provide feedback. Submissions close on 21 July 2026. Additional information and consultation documents can be accessed through the links below.

Consultation Documents and Information
ACMA Consultation: Remaking the Emergency Locating Devices Class Licence Link
Emergency Locating Devices Class Licence Information Page Link

Consultation closes: 21 July 2026.

Page Last Updated: Saturday, 20 Jun 2026 at 15:56 hours by Justin Giles-clark

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