Marine Radio Operator Certificate of Proficiency

Understand the role of marine radio in safety at sea, the regulatory framework, and the types of equipment used on recreational and commercial vessels.

• Purpose and importance of marine radio
• Types of marine radio equipment
• ACMA licensing requirements in Australia

Master the practical operation of VHF marine radios, including channel selection, correct radio technique, and standard communication procedures.

• VHF channel allocations and their uses
• Correct radio technique and phonetic alphabet
• Routine and working channel procedures

Learn how to use DSC features on modern marine radios, including how to send and receive distress alerts and routine calls using DSC controllers.

• How DSC works and its safety benefits
• Sending and receiving DSC distress alerts
• Routine DSC calls and position linking

Understand what an MMSI number is, why it is required, and how to register your vessel's MMSI with the appropriate Australian authority.

• What is an MMSI and who needs one
• Registering your MMSI in Australia
• Linking MMSI to your vessel and DSC radio

Learn the correct procedures for declaring a MAYDAY, PAN PAN, and SECURITE — and how to respond when you hear these calls from other vessels.

• MAYDAY — distress signal procedures
• PAN PAN — urgency signal procedures
• SECURITE — safety signal procedures

An overview of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System and the Australian maritime radio regulations that apply to recreational and commercial operators.

• GMDSS overview and sea areas
• Australian maritime radio regulations
• Obligations of licensed radio operators