Question details
Question on Notice
With reference to new requirements for recreational boaters:
(1) Correspondence from Safe Transport Victoria recently distributed to recreational boaters states they must carry a Very High Frequency (VHF) radio with a minimum 25-watt output. Twenty-five watts is the maximum output for VHF radios. What is the correct guideline for boaters.
(2) All boaters must hold a certificate of proficiency licence issued by the Office of Marine Communications to operate a VHF marine radio, which is not stated in the letter. How will the Department communicate the requirement of a certificate of proficiency for VHF marine radios with boaters to ensure they are not unfairly penalised.
(3) The letter states marine radios must be Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA)-approved VHF radios. Advice from ACMA says it does not approve any VHF radios. Can the Minister provide a list of marine radios recommended for boaters.
I thank the Member for his question.
I would like to acknowledge the dedication of Victoria’s recreational boaters to adopting the important changes introduced under the Marine Safety Regulations 2023.
I am advised by Safe Transport Victoria that a range of communications have been delivered to the recreational boating community, both before and since the regulations came into effect on
11 June 2023.
Given some of the specific changes relating to VHF marine radios, I have requested that Safe Transport Victoria work with the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) to provide clear and specific guidance for boaters as we move toward the 2024-25 summer boating season.
Regarding the specific points you have raised:
- When operating on enclosed waters, boaters have several options to ensure they can raise an alarm in the event of an emergency. A VHF marine radio is one of several options, and is only mandatory when operating more than two nautical miles from the coast.
- Radios with less than 25 watts of power, including 27 megahertz radios, no longer fall within the definition of a marine radio in Victoria when operating more than two nautical miles from the coast in coastal waters.
- An approved marine radio is a 25-watt VHF radio transceiver that meets certain standards, which are enforced by ACMA and are specified in the full regulations.
- Safe Transport Victoria will distribute further information on approved marine radios to clarify certificate of proficiency requirements to operate a VHF marine radio.
Any boater seeking to replace their existing 27-megahertz device with a 25-watt VHF radio is encouraged to consult with their retailer or ACMA on appropriate options.
This important change will ensure reliable communication and safety on the water due to the longer range of VHF radios.
Safe Transport Victoria launched its ‘Back to Basics’ safety campaign on 18 October 2024, which emphasises the importance of proper preparation and maintenance so that Victorian boaters are well-informed and equipped for safe and responsible vessel use.
I encourage all recreational boaters to consult the Safe Transport Victoria website and published regulations for specific information.
Steve Dimopoulos MP
Member for Oakleigh
Minister for Outdoor Recreation