VHF Marine Radio Course Information

Did you know it is *illegal to operate a VHF Marine Radio WITHOUT a ‘Certificate of Proficiency’ (Licence).  *Other than in an emergency, it is a legal requirement that you have a VHF licence if you intend to use your radio for general/day-to-day operation.

You must have a qualification or be supervised by a qualified person if you use a VHF marine radio in Australian territorial waters (within 2 nautical miles of the coast).

We offer classroom-based learning that provides you with the skills and knowledge required to transmit and receive information by VHF radio on a vessel according to regulations and includes operating an emergency position indicating radio beacon (EPIRB).

Our course session covers the requirements of both courses and consists of a visual presentation, practical examples and hands-on use of VHF radios.  The assessment is knowledge-based and practical.

Courses available

  • Australian Waters Qualification (AWQ) (MARC059)

    Designed specifically for recreational powerboat and sailing boat operators in Australian waters. It is ideal for inland and enclosed waters and allows you to operate in Australian waters up to 12nM from the shore on coastal waters.
    Prepared by AMCA to suit recreational boat operators this qualification incorporates MARC059 – Transmit and receive information by marine VHF radio within Australian Territorial Waters. Nationally accredited, you will on successful completion receive a Statement of Attainment at the session that can be used to obtain a MMSI. An ID card will also be issued and posted.

    Duration: 4-hour classroom plus up to  14 hours of pre-study.

    Age requirement: No age restriction

    $245

  • International Short Range Operators Certificate of Proficiency (SROCP)

    Can be used on all Australian waterways and is required when operating beyond 12nM from coastal shorelines.  This certificate may be used for overseas hire of some charter boats and commercial uses.
    This qualification is conducted under the auspices of the Australian Maritime College in Tasmania, but all education and testing are completed through PBT.

    The certification is completed by the AMC and generally takes 2 weeks on successful completion of the assessment. Once received you can apply for a MMSI.
    Duration: 4-hour classroom plus up to 14 hours of pre-study.

    Age requirement: 16+ years

    $345

Expression of Interest

Can’t find a date that suits? Please complete the Expression of Interest form if you are interested in attending a future course.

Steps

  • Step 1

    Book Book

  • Step 2

    Pencil Pencil

    Register and Pay for your course online

  • Step 3

    Mail Mail

    Check for your confirmation email (Can be in the junk/spam folder)

  • Step 4

    Book-open Book-open

    Work your way through the steps/pre-learning within the link provided in your confirmation email, importantly completing the enrolment form.

  • Step 5

    Alert Alert

    AWQ only – Provide your USI. (Information in the email)
    SROCP only – complete registration requirements from AMC when required.

PROOF OF IDENTIFICATION

Identification

  1. ID – We are required by law to verify your identity. You will be asked to provide a legible copy of a photo identification – for example, a driver’s licence, proof-of-age card or passport. Providing proof of ID is a prerequisite to receiving your certificate.
  2. AWQ (MARC059) only: USI – Unique Student Identifier (USI). All registered training providers must collect a USI before a Certificate or Statement of Attainment can be issued process for this accreditation.

COURSE CONTENT

Content covered in both courses:

  • The Principles of Radio Communications
  • About the Radio
  • Australian Regulations
  • Who is Listening
  • Channels
  • Repeaters
  • Phonetic Alphabet
  • Calling – Routine
  • Radio Check
  • DUS Calls – Distress/Urgency/Safety
  • Digital Select Calling
  • EPIRBs
  • Search and Rescue
  • Power supply
  • AIS – Australian Identification System
  • Practical Use of VHF Marine Radios.