{"id":"wa-marine-radiotelephony-regulations-1981","name":"W.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Regulations 1981","slug":"w-a-marine-radiotelephony-regulations-1981","collection":"regulation","jurisdiction":"wa","status":"in_force","isInForce":true,"actNumber":null,"makingDate":null,"administeringDepartment":null,"currentVersion":{"id":182387,"registerId":"wa-wa-marine-radiotelephony-regulations-1981-current","compilationNumber":null,"startDate":"2026-04-05","status":"InForce","reasons":null,"registeredAt":null},"sections":[{"sectionNumber":"1","sectionType":"section","heading":"W.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Regulations 1981","content":"![Crest]()Western Australia\n\nWestern Australian Marine Act 1982\n\nW.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Regulations 1981\n\n- **Reprinted under the *Reprints Act 1984* as**\n- **at 5 March 2010**\n\n\nWestern Australia\n\nW.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Regulations 1981\n\nContents\n\nPart 1 — Preliminary matters\n\n1. Citation 1\n\n2A. Terms used 1\n\nPart 2 — Requirements for vessels in existence before 1 October 2009\n\n2. Terms used 2\n\n3. Application of Part 2 3\n\n5. Prescribed types and standards of installations 3\n\n6. Maintenance of installations 4\n\n7. Electrical interference to be prevented 4\n\n8. Installation and protection of installations 4\n\n9. Notice of proposed fittings of installations 5\n\n10. Books to be carried on seagoing ships 5\n\n11. Fittings ancillary to installations 6\n\n12. Seagoing ships to carry spares 7\n\n13. Prescribed qualifications of radiotelephone operators 7\n\n14. Radio watches 7\n\n15. Testing of installations 8\n\n16. Surveying of installations 8\n\n17. Installations and associated books to be available for inspection 12\n\n18. Offences and penalties 12\n\nPart 3 — Requirements for vessels new since 1 October 2009\n\n19. Terms used 13\n\n20. Application of Part 3 13\n\n21. Classification of vessels 13\n\n22. Incorporation of Section 12 of Code 13\n\n23. Vessel to be fitted with clock 14\n\n24. Radio surveyor’s report to be provided 14\n\n25. Logbooks 14\n\n26. Equipment and documents to be available for inspection 15\n\n27. Failure to comply with incorporated provisions 15\n\nSchedule I\n\nSingle sideband installations\n\nPart I — Installations\n\n1. Specification 16\n\n2. Transmitter 16\n\n3. Receiver 16\n\nPart II — Sources of electrical energy\n\n4. Main source 17\n\n5. Reserve source 17\n\n6. Batteries 17\n\nPart III — Radiation system\n\n7. Aerial 18\n\n8. Earth 19\n\nSchedule II\n\nPart I — Installations\n\n1. Specification 20\n\n2. Transmitter 20\n\n3. Receiver 20\n\nPart II — Sources of electrical energy\n\n4. Main source 21\n\n5. Reserve source 21\n\n6. Batteries 21\n\nPart III — Radiation system\n\n7. Aerial 22\n\nNotes\n\nCompilation table 24\n\nDefined terms\n\n  \n\n- Crest **Reprinted under the *Reprints Act 1984* as**\n- **at 5 March 2010**\n\n\nWestern Australia\n\nWestern Australian Marine Act 1982\n\nW.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Regulations 1981\n\n## Part 1 — Preliminary matters\n\n[Heading inserted: Gazette 11 Dec 2009 p. 5101.]\n\n##### 1. Citation\n\nThese regulations may be cited as the *W.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Regulations 1981* 1.\n\n[Regulation 1 amended: Gazette 1 Jul 1983 p. 2189.]\n\n##### 2A. Terms used\n\nIn these regulations —\n\ninstallation means any equipment that is required by these regulations to be fitted in a vessel;\n\nradio surveyor means a person approved by the chief executive officer as a radio surveyor for the purposes of these regulations.\n\n[Regulation 2A inserted: Gazette 11 Dec 2009 p. 5101.]\n\n## Part 2 — Requirements for vessels in existence before 1 October 2009\n\n[Heading inserted: Gazette 11 Dec 2009 p. 5102.]\n\n##### 2. Terms used\n\n(1) In this Part, unless the contrary intention appears —\n\n  at sea, in relation to radio watch keeping means, in its application to commercial vessels of Classes 1, 2 and 3, the period during which the vessel is under way beyond smooth waters;\n\n  coast station means land station used by the Overseas Telecommunications Commission (Australia) established under the *Overseas Telecommunications Act 1946* 2, as amended, of the Commonwealth for the exchange of communications with ship stations and correspondence on behalf of members of the public;\n\n  limited coast station means land station, other than a coast station, used by a person licensed to do so under the *Wireless Telegraphy Act 1905* 3, as amended, of the Commonwealth for the exchange of communications with ship stations;\n\n  master, in relation to a seagoing ship, includes person for the time being having the control of the seagoing ship;\n\n  radio watch means listening on the distress frequency which is appropriate to the type of installation by means of which that listening takes place;\n\n  seagoing ship means ship to which this Part applies by virtue of regulation 3;\n\n  silence periods means periods of 3 minutes duration commencing at each hour, and at the expiry of 30 minutes after each hour, of each day according to Western Australian Standard Time;\n\n  survey means survey of an installation;\n\n  the former regulations means the *Western Australian Marine Act (Radiotelephony) Regulations* 4, as amended.\n\n(2) In this Part a reference to an emission, signal or wave of —\n\n(a) type A3H shall be read as a reference to single sideband amplitude modulated radiotelephony having a carrier emitted at a level of not more than 6 decibels; or\n\n(b) type A3J shall be read as a reference to single sideband amplitude modulated radiotelephony having a carrier emitted at a level of 40 decibels or more,\n\nbelow the peak envelope power.\n\n[Regulation 2 amended: Gazette 1 Jul 1983 p. 2189; 11 Dec 2009 p. 5102‑3.]\n\n##### 3. Application of Part 2\n\nThis Part applies to any vessel —\n\n(a) that is a commercial vessel of Class 1, 2 or 3, other than a vessel of Class 1E, 2E or 3E or a hire and drive vessel; and\n\n(b) that is not a new vessel as defined in Amendment List 7 to the Code as adopted on 7 November 2008.\n\n[Regulation 3 inserted: Gazette 11 Dec 2009 p. 5103.]\n\n[**4.** Deleted: Gazette 1 Jul 1983 p. 2189.]\n\n##### 5. Prescribed types and standards of installations\n\nAn installation is of the prescribed type and standard required to be installed in a ship for the purposes of complying with section 44 of the Act if it consists of a transmitter together with a separate or combined receiver, a radiation system and a main source, and a reserve source, of electrical energy and —\n\n(a) in the case of an installation fitted in a seagoing ship of any kind, it is a single sideband installation which complies with the requirements of Schedule I; or\n\n(b) in the case of an installation fitted in a seagoing ship which —\n\n(i) goes to sea, plies or is navigated, as the case requires, exclusively within 20 nautical miles of a coast station or limited coast station; and\n\n(ii) keeps a continuous radio watch on the frequency 156.80 MHz (Channel 16);\n\nit is a VHF frequency modulated installation which complies with the requirements of Schedule II.\n\n[Regulation 5 amended: Gazette 1 Jul 1983 p. 2189.]\n\n##### 6. Maintenance of installations\n\nThe master of a seagoing ship shall ensure that the installation fitted in the seagoing ship is so maintained that, whilst the seagoing ship is at sea, that installation complies with this Part.\n\n[Regulation 6 amended: Gazette 11 Dec 2009 p. 5103.]\n\n##### 7. Electrical interference to be prevented\n\nThe owner of a seagoing ship shall cause the installation fitted in the seagoing ship to be so fitted, and other electrical apparatus on the seagoing ship to be equipped with such devices, that effective reception of radio signals is not hindered or prevented by interference caused by electrical or other apparatus on the seagoing ship.\n\n##### 8. Installation and protection of installations\n\nThe owner of a seagoing ship shall cause an installation —\n\n(a) to be fitted in the seagoing ship —\n\n(i) in a manner and position satisfactory to a radio surveyor; and\n\n(ii) in such a position that the installation will not affect any of the compasses or other navigational equipment of the seagoing ship;\n\nand\n\n(b) to be protected, once fitted in the seagoing ship, against the harmful effects of salt water and extremes of temperature to the satisfaction of a radio surveyor.\n\n##### 9. Notice of proposed fittings of installations\n\nThe owner of a seagoing ship shall, not less than 30 days before an installation is fitted in the seagoing ship, lodge at an office of the Department notice in writing of the proposed fitting thereof and of the proposed site of, and of the wiring adjacent to, the installation.\n\n##### 10. Books to be carried on seagoing ships\n\nThe master of a seagoing ship shall ensure that —\n\n(a) there are carried on board the seagoing ship —\n\n(i) a radio logbook; and\n\n(ii) a copy of the latest edition of the “Handbook for Radiotelephone Ship Station Operators” published by the Department of Communications of the Commonwealth;\n\nand\n\n(b) there are entered in the radio logbook referred to in paragraph (a) details of dates, times, frequencies and callsigns in respect of —\n\n(i) communications relating to the tests required by regulation 15; and\n\n(ii) every distress call, together with the name and position of the vessel in distress, the nature of the distress and the action taken in respect thereof.\n\n##### 11. Fittings ancillary to installations\n\n(1) Subject to this Part, the owner of a seagoing ship shall ensure that there are fitted, in a manner approved by a radio surveyor, in the immediate vicinity of the installation of the seagoing ship —\n\n(a) a reliable clock visible to the operator of that installation;\n\n(b) a notice in writing explaining in simple terms capable of being understood by an unskilled person in an emergency the use of that installation; and\n\n(c) an emergency electric light capable of —\n\n(i) illuminating the controls of that installation, the clock referred to in paragraph (a) and the notice referred to in paragraph (b); and\n\n(ii) being operated both from that installation and from every means of access to the space in which that installation is fitted.\n\n(2) If an installation is not fitted in the place from which the seagoing ship concerned is normally navigated, the owner of that seagoing ship shall ensure that a loudspeaker having a gain control which, when adjusted to its minimum position, permits an output from that loudspeaker loud enough for the keeping of an effective radio watch is fitted in that place.\n\n(3) The owner of a seagoing ship shall ensure that the installation fitted therein is protected from accidental access by persons to all parts and wiring thereof which may at any time be at an instantaneous voltage, other than a radio frequency voltage, of more than 50 volts under normal operating conditions.\n\n[Regulation 11 amended: Gazette 11 Dec 2009 p. 5103.]\n\n##### 12. Seagoing ships to carry spares\n\nThe master of a seagoing ship shall ensure that there are carried on board the seagoing ship —\n\n(a) one spare valve of each type of valve, and 4 spare fuses of each type of fuse, used in the installation concerned;\n\n(b) one spare globe for the emergency electric light referred to in regulation 11(1)(c);\n\n(c) if a light is the sole indicator of output power in the installation concerned, one spare globe for the light; and\n\n(d) in the case of a seagoing ship which is not a fishing vessel,\n\none spare completely assembled antenna capable of being used effectively on a distress frequency.\n\n[Regulation 12 amended: Gazette 1 Jul 1983 p. 2190.]\n\n##### 13. Prescribed qualifications of radiotelephone operators\n\nThe prescribed qualifications referred to in section 44(b) of the Act are —\n\n(a) a Restricted Operator’s Certificate of Proficiency in radiotelephony issued under the Wireless Telegraphy Regulations, as amended, made under the *Wireless Telegraphy Act 1905* 3, as amended, of the Commonwealth; or\n\n(b) a certificate approved by the Department of Communications of the Commonwealth as appropriate to the operation of the installation concerned.\n\n[Regulation 13 amended: Gazette 1 Jul 1983 p. 2190.]\n\n##### 14. Radio watches\n\n(1) Subject to this regulation, the master of a seagoing ship shall ensure that a continuous radio watch is kept while the seagoing ship is at sea.\n\n(2) A radio watch kept under subregulation (1) may, except during silence periods, be suspended —\n\n(a) whilst communications are being exchanged with coast stations, limited coast stations or ship stations;\n\n(b) whenever conditions are such that, in the opinion of the master of the seagoing ship concerned, that radio watch would interfere with the safe navigation or safe working of that seagoing ship; or\n\n(c) whilst the seagoing ship concerned is at anchor.\n\n(3) A radio watch kept under subregulation (1) may be kept by listening to a loudspeaker fitted under regulation 11(2).\n\n(4) If the installation fitted in a seagoing ship referred to in regulation 5(b) is one complying with the requirements of Schedule II, the radio watch kept under subregulation (1) shall be so kept as far as is practicable on the frequency 156.80 MHz (Channel 16).\n\n##### 15. Testing of installations\n\n(1) The master of a seagoing ship shall ensure that the installation fitted in the seagoing ship is tested by a radiotelephone operator not less than once daily while the seagoing ship is at sea by communicating the position of the seagoing ship to a coast station or a limited coast station.\n\n(2) A radiotelephone operator testing an installation under subregulation (1) shall record the results of that testing in the radio logbook referred to in regulation 10(a)(i).\n\n##### 16. Surveying of installations\n\n(1) The owner of a seagoing ship in which an installation is fitted —\n\n(a) before the coming into operation of these regulations shall apply in writing to the Department —\n\n(i) if a certificate of survey has been issued under the former regulations in respect of the installation, once in each successive period of 12 months ending on the anniversary of the date of issue of that certificate; or\n\n(ii) if a certificate of survey has not been issued under the former regulations in respect of the installation, within a period of 14 days from the date of coming into operation of these regulations and thereafter once in each successive period of 12 months ending on the anniversary of that date;\n\nor\n\n(b) after the coming into operation of these regulations shall apply in writing to the Department within a period of 14 days from the date of that fitting and thereafter once in each successive period of 12 months ending on the anniversary of that date,\n\nfor the installation to be surveyed by a radio surveyor.\n\n(2) An owner of a seagoing ship making an application under subregulation (1) shall transmit the application and the fee payable under subregulation (2a) to an office of the department —\n\n(a) in the case of a survey to be made at the port of Fremantle or on the Swan River, 14 days before the date on which the survey is required to be so made; or\n\n(b) in the case of a survey to be made at a port or place other than the port of Fremantle or the Swan River, 14 days before the date specified for surveys to be made at that port or place in a programme of surveys issued by the Department and available at offices of the Department on or after 30 January in each year,\n\nand shall cause the seagoing ship to be presented for survey at such port or place, and at such time on such date, as are notified to him by the Department.\n\n(2a) A fee of $478.30 shall be payable for an original survey in respect of an application under subregulation (1).\n\n(2b) Where as a result of an original survey it is necessary for a further survey of the installation to be carried out before a certificate of survey can be issued, the owner of the seagoing ship concerned shall pay to the Department a fee of $235.90.\n\n(3) If, in the opinion of the chief executive officer of the Department, it is unreasonable, too expensive or for any other reason not practicable for an installation to be surveyed —\n\n(a) in the case of the first survey of the installation, within 7 days prior to the day on which the seagoing ship concerned is to commence operations; or\n\n(b) in the case of a survey of the installation subsequent to the first survey thereof, before the end of the period of 12 months in which the relevant application is made under subregulation (1),\n\nand the master of the seagoing ship concerned delivers to the Department a statement in writing —\n\n(c) indicating that the installation is in good condition and gives satisfactory communication; and\n\n(d) supported by a report by the Overseas Telecommunications Commission of the Commonwealth indicating that the installation gives satisfactory reception,\n\non 2 carrier frequencies referred to in that statement, the Department shall issue to the owner of that seagoing ship a temporary certificate valid for not more than 90 days from the day referred to in paragraph (a) or from the end of the period referred to in paragraph (b), as the case requires, unless that temporary certificate is sooner cancelled under subregulation (5).\n\n(4) A radio surveyor who surveys an installation shall, if he is satisfied that these regulations have been complied with in respect of the installation, make a report on that survey to the Department and the Department shall, if that report is a satisfactory one, issue to the owner of the seagoing ship concerned on receipt of that report a certificate of survey valid for a period of 12 months from the date on which that survey was completed, unless that certificate of survey is sooner cancelled under subregulation (5).\n\n(5) The Department may, on receiving a report by a radio surveyor that any of these regulations is no longer being complied with in respect of an installation, cancel the temporary certificate or the certificate of survey, as the case requires, issued in respect of the installation.\n\n(6) The master of a seagoing ship which is a commercial vessel to which these regulations apply shall not cause or permit that ship to be navigated beyond smooth waters unless a valid temporary certificate or certificate of survey is in force in respect of the installation of that ship.\n\n(7) The master of a seagoing ship shall cause to be available a supply of electrical energy sufficient to enable the installation of the seagoing ship to be tested for the purposes of a survey at all reasonable times while the seagoing ship is in port.\n\n(8) In this regulation —\n\n  carrier frequency means carrier frequency referred to in clause 2(1) or 3 of Schedule I;\n\n  certificate of survey means certificate of survey issued under subregulation (4);\n\n  temporary certificate means temporary certificate issued under subregulation (3).\n\n[Regulation 16 amended: Gazette 1 Jul 1983 p. 2190; 16 Jun 1989 p. 1747; 1 Aug 1990 p. 3648; 26 Jul 1991 p. 3930; 30 Jun 1992 p. 2907; 11 Aug 1992 p. 3979; 29 Jun 1993 p. 3186; 17 Jun 1994 p. 2488; 11 Jul 1995 p. 2948; 25 Jun 1996 p. 3000; 27 Jun 1997 p. 3142; 12 May 1998 p. 2791; 20 Jun 2000 p. 3063; 27 Jul 2001 p. 3805; 14 Jun 2002 p. 2827; 27 Jun 2003 p. 2528; 25 Jun 2004 p. 2262; 24 Jun 2005 p. 2782; 23 Jun 2006 p. 2214; 12 Jun 2007 p. 2730‑1; 24 Jun 2008 p. 2898; 12 Jun 2009 p. 2129.]\n\n##### 17. Installations and associated books to be available for inspection\n\nThe master of a seagoing ship shall at all reasonable times make available for inspection by a radio surveyor the installation of the seagoing ship and the books referred to in regulation 10(a).\n\n##### 18. Offences and penalties\n\n(1) The owner of a seagoing ship who breaches regulation 7, 8, 9, 11 or 16(1) or (2) commits an offence and is liable to a fine not exceeding $500.\n\n(2) The master of a seagoing ship who breaches regulation 6, 10, 12, 14, 15(1), 16(6) or (7) or 17 commits an offence and is liable to a fine not exceeding $500.\n\n(3) A radiotelephone operator who breaches regulation 15(2) commits an offence and is liable to a fine not exceeding $500.\n\n[Regulation 18 amended: Gazette 1 Jul 1983 p. 2190.]\n\n## Part 3 — Requirements for vessels new since 1 October 2009\n\n[Heading inserted: Gazette 11 Dec 2009 p. 5104.]\n\n##### 19. Terms used\n\n(1) In this Part —\n\nCode means the Uniform Shipping Laws Code, referred to in section 115 of the Act, as in existence on 1 October 2009;\n\nNSCV means the NSCV, as defined in the *Navigation Act 1912* (Commonwealth) section 427, as in existence on 1 October 2009;\n\nvessel means a vessel to which this Part applies by virtue of regulation 20.\n\n(2) In the provisions of the Code incorporated in this Part, a term has the same meaning as it has in the Code.\n\n[Regulation 19 inserted: Gazette 11 Dec 2009 p. 5104.]\n\n##### 20. Application of Part 3\n\nThis Part applies to any vessel that is a new vessel as defined in clause 2 of Amendment List 7 to the Code as adopted on 7 November 2008.\n\n[Regulation 20 inserted: Gazette 11 Dec 2009 p. 5104.]\n\n##### 21. Classification of vessels\n\nFor the purposes of this Part, vessels are to be classified in the manner provided by clause 6 of Section 1 of the Code.\n\n[Regulation 21 inserted: Gazette 11 Dec 2009 p. 5104.]\n\n##### 22. Incorporation of Section 12 of Code\n\nThe provisions of Section 12 of the Code are incorporated in this Part and extend and apply to and in respect of all vessels and voyages to which this Part applies.\n\n[Regulation 22 inserted: Gazette 11 Dec 2009 p. 5105.]\n\n##### 23. Vessel to be fitted with clock\n\nA vessel that is required by Section 12 of the Code to have any piece of equipment installed in it must have a reliable clock installed in a place where it is visible to the operator of that equipment.\n\n[Regulation 23 inserted: Gazette 11 Dec 2009 p. 5105.]\n\n##### 24. Radio surveyor’s report to be provided\n\nThe owner of the vessel must provide to the chief executive officer a report by a radio surveyor as to whether the vessel complies with this Part —\n\n(a) when the vessel is required to undergo an initial survey under the *W.A. Marine (Surveys and Certificates of Survey) Regulations 1983*; and\n\n(b) when the vessel is required to undergo a periodic survey under those regulations if a report is requested by the chief executive officer.\n\n[Regulation 24 inserted: Gazette 11 Dec 2009 p. 5105.]\n\n##### 25. Logbooks\n\nThe master of a vessel must comply with regulation 10 as if —\n\n(a) a reference in regulation 10 to a seagoing ship were a reference to a vessel; and\n\n(b) the reference in regulation 10(b)(i) to regulation 15 were a reference to this Part.\n\nPenalty: a fine of $500.\n\n[Regulation 25 inserted: Gazette 11 Dec 2009 p. 5105.]\n\n##### 26. Equipment and documents to be available for inspection\n\n(1) The master of a vessel must, at all reasonable times, make available for inspection and testing by a radio surveyor —\n\n(a) any equipment that is required by this Part to be installed in the vessel; and\n\n(b) any documents required by this Part to be kept in relation to that equipment.\n\nPenalty: a fine of $500.\n\n(2) The master of a vessel must ensure that sufficient power is available to allow testing under subregulation (1)(a) to be undertaken.\n\nPenalty: a fine of $500.\n\n[Regulation 26 inserted: Gazette 11 Dec 2009 p. 5106.]\n\n##### 27. Failure to comply with incorporated provisions\n\n(1) The owner of a vessel must ensure that the vessel complies with NSCV Part C Section 7B Chapter 5 clauses 5.3, 5.4.2, 5.4.3, 5.7.2, 5.7.3 and 5.7.4.\n\nPenalty: a fine of $500.\n\n(2) The master of a vessel must ensure that the following provisions of the NSCV are complied with —\n\n(a) Part C Section 7B Chapter 6;\n\n(b) Part E clause 2.8.5.1.\n\nPenalty: a fine of $500.\n\n(3) A person who carries out a test required by NSCV Part C Section 7B clause 6.5 must make the records in the vessel’s logbook required by that clause.\n\nPenalty: a fine of $500.\n\n[Regulation 27 inserted: Gazette 11 Dec 2009 p. 5106.]\n\nSchedule I\n\n[Regulation 5(a)]\n\nSingle sideband installations\n\nPart I — Installations\n\n1. Specification\n\nA single sideband installation shall comply with the specification RB 211B issued in June 1973 by the Postmaster‑General’s Department of the Commonwealth for single frequency simplex MF and HF single sideband suppressed carrier and compatible double sideband radiotelephony equipment for use in the International Maritime Mobile Radiotelephone Service.\n\n2. Transmitter\n\nThe transmitter of a single sideband installation shall be capable of effectively transmitting —\n\n(a) the 2.8A3H type of emission on the carrier frequency 2182 kHz;\n\n(b) the 2.8A3H and 2.8A3J types of emission on the carrier frequency 4125 kHz;\n\n(c) the 2.8A3H and 2.8A3J types of emission on the carrier frequency 6215.5 kHz; and\n\n(d) such types of emission on such carrier frequencies, other than those referred to in paragraphs (a), (b) and (c), as are appropriate to the service in which the seagoing ship concerned is engaged.\n\n(2) The total unmodulated output carrier power of a transmitter referred to in subclause (1) shall not be less than 15 watts on the carrier frequency of 2182 kHz.\n\n3. Receiver\n\nThe receiver of a single sideband installation shall be capable of effectively receiving —\n\n(a) the 2.8A3H type of emission on the carrier frequency 2182 kHz;\n\n(b) the 2.8A3H and 2.8A3J types of emission on the carrier frequency 4125 kHz;\n\n(c) the 2.8A3H and 2.8A3J types of emission on the carrier frequency 6215.5 kHz; and\n\n(d) such types of emission on such frequencies, other than those referred to in paragraphs (a), (b) and (c), as are appropriate to the service in which the seagoing ship concerned is engaged.\n\nPart II — Sources of electrical energy\n\n4. Main source\n\nThe main source of electrical energy for a single sideband installation shall —\n\n(a) be capable of operating that installation; and\n\n(b) be separate from the reserve source of electrical energy referred to in clause 5.\n\n5. Reserve source\n\nThe reserve source of electrical energy for a single sideband installation shall be capable at all times whilst the seagoing ship concerned is at sea of supplying continuously for a period of 6 hours a total current equal to the sum of —\n\n(a) one‑half of the current required to operate the single sideband radiotelephone transmitter for the transmission of speech;\n\n(b) the current required to operate the single sideband radiotelephone receiver; and\n\n(c) the current required to operate the electric light referred to in regulation 11(1)(c).\n\n6. Batteries\n\n(1) Batteries which supply the whole or any part of the electrical energy for a single sideband installation shall —\n\n(a) not be of the dry cell type;\n\n(b) be placed and housed to the satisfaction of a radio surveyor; and\n\n(c) be capable of being fully charged within a period of 16 hours by the means referred to in subclause (2).\n\n(2) If a single sideband installation is supplied with electrical energy wholly or in part by batteries, there shall be provided on the seagoing ship concerned means —\n\n(a) for charging those batteries and for preventing those batteries from discharging otherwise than for the purpose of supplying the total current referred to in clause 5;\n\n(b) for testing the charge condition of those batteries; and\n\n(c) in the case of batteries which supply electrical energy not only to the installation but also to other equipment on that seagoing ship —\n\n(i) there shall be provided at that installation means for promptly cutting off the supply of electrical energy to that other equipment in an emergency; and\n\n(ii) those batteries shall be capable of supplying adequate electrical energy to that other equipment for such period as the Department approves in addition to complying with the requirements of clause 5.\n\n(3) If, in the opinion of a radio surveyor, electrical generating devices in the seagoing ship concerned may cause damage to its single sideband installation through voltage fluctuations, electrical energy shall be supplied to that installation by 2 banks of batteries which shall be —\n\n(a) charged and discharged through an interlocking isolating switch separating the battery on charge from the transmitter, and the combined or separate receiver, of that installation; and\n\n(b) situated in or adjacent to the wheelhouse of that seagoing ship.\n\nPart III — Radiation system\n\n7. Aerial\n\nThe aerial of the radiation system of a single sideband installation shall —\n\n(a) be of such type and dimensions, and so erected and insulated, as to secure efficient radiation;\n\n(b) be so placed and constructed that —\n\n(i) it is adequately protected from mechanical damage;\n\n(ii) danger to personnel as a result of accidental contact is precluded;\n\n(iii) it does not interfere with the safe navigation or working of the seagoing ship concerned; and\n\n(iv) it is adequately protected from the adverse effects of salt water.\n\n8. Earth\n\n(1) A single sideband installation shall be provided with an efficient radio frequency earth connected to it by a suitable connection.\n\n(2) A connection referred to in subclause (1) shall be made in a manner which will —\n\n(a) present the minimum impedance to the flow of radio frequency currents; and\n\n(b) preclude the possibility of damage by electrolysis to the seagoing ship concerned or the radio frequency earth referred to in that subclause.\n\nSchedule II\n\n[Regulation 5(b)]\n\n**VHF frequency modulated installations**\n\nPart I — Installations\n\n1. Specification\n\nA VHF frequency modulated installation shall comply with the specification RB 274 issued in January 1976 by the Postal and Telecommunications Department of the Commonwealth for radio equipment employed in the International VHF Maritime Mobile Radiotelephone Service.\n\n2. Transmitter\n\nThe transmitter of a VHF frequency modulated installation shall —\n\n(a) be capable of effectively transmitting —\n\n(i) on the frequencies 156.80 MHz (Channel 16) and 156.375 MHz (Channel 67); and\n\n(ii) on such frequencies, other than those referred to in subparagraph (i), as are appropriate to the service in which the seagoing ship concerned is engaged;\n\n(b) have a maximum radio frequency output power of not less than 7.5 watts, and not more than 25 watts, mean power; and\n\n(c) include means for readily reducing the output referred to in paragraph (b) to not more than 1 watt mean power.\n\n3. Receiver\n\nThe receiver of a VHF frequency modulated installation shall be capable of effectively receiving —\n\n(a) on the frequencies 156.80 MHz (Channel 16) and 156.375 MHz (Channel 67); and\n\n(b) on such frequencies, other than those referred to in paragraph (a), as are appropriate to the service in which the seagoing ship concerned is engaged.\n\nPart II — Sources of electrical energy\n\n4. Main source\n\nThe main source of electrical energy for a VHF frequency modulated installation shall —\n\n(a) be capable of operating that installation; and\n\n(b) be separate from the reserve source of electrical energy referred to in clause 5.\n\n5. Reserve source\n\nThe reserve source of electrical energy for a VHF frequency modulated installation shall be capable at all times whilst the seagoing ship concerned is at sea of supplying continuously for a period of 6 hours a total current equal to the sum of —\n\n(a) one‑half of the current required to operate the VHF frequency modulated radiotelephone transmitter for the transmission of speech;\n\n(b) the current required to operate the VHF frequency modulated radiotelephone receiver; and\n\n(c) the current required to operate the electric light referred to in regulation 11(1)(c).\n\n6. Batteries\n\n(1) Batteries which supply the whole or any part of the electrical energy for a VHF frequency modulated installation shall —\n\n(a) not be of the dry cell type;\n\n(b) be placed and housed to the satisfaction of a radio surveyor; and\n\n(c) be capable of being fully charged within a period of 16 hours by the means referred to in subclause (2).\n\n(2) If a VHF frequency modulated installation is supplied with electrical energy wholly or in part by batteries, there shall be provided on the seagoing ship concerned means —\n\n(a) for charging those batteries and for preventing those batteries from discharging otherwise than for the purpose of supplying the total current referred to in clause 5;\n\n(b) for testing the charge condition of those batteries; and\n\n(c) in the case of batteries which supply electrical energy not only to that installation but also to other equipment on that seagoing ship —\n\n(i) there shall be provided at that installation means for promptly cutting off the supply of electrical energy to that other equipment in an emergency; and\n\n(ii) those batteries shall be capable of supplying adequate electrical energy to that other equipment for such period as the Department approves in addition to complying with the requirements of clause 5.\n\n(3) If, in the opinion of a radio surveyor, electrical generating devices in the seagoing ship concerned may cause damage to its VHF frequency modulated installation through voltage fluctuations, electrical energy shall be supplied to that installation by 2 banks of batteries which shall be —\n\n(a) charged and discharged through an interlocking isolating switch separating the battery on charge from the transmitter, and the combined or separate receiver, of that installation; and\n\n(b) situated in or adjacent to the wheelhouse of that seagoing ship.\n\nPart III — Radiation system\n\n7. Aerial\n\n(1) The aerial of the radiation system of VHF frequency modulated installation shall —\n\n(a) be of such type and dimensions, and so erected and insulated, as to secure efficient radiation;\n\n(b) be so placed and constructed that —\n\n(i) it is adequately protected from mechanical damage;\n\n(ii) danger to personnel as a result of accidental contact is precluded;\n\n(iii) it does not interfere with the safe navigation or working of the seagoing ship concerned; and\n\n(iv) it is adequately protected from the adverse effects of salt water.\n\n(2) The aerial installation of a radiating system referred to in subclause (1) shall be of vertical polarization.\n\n(3) The product of the antenna gain and the power of the transmitter of a VHF frequency modulated installation, measured at the point of connection to the aerial terminal, shall not, in the case of an isotropic radiator, exceed 41 watts Effective Isotropic Radiated Power.\n\n![A:\\dline.gif]()\n\nNotes\n\n1 This reprint is a compilation as at 5 March 2010 of the *W.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Regulations 1981* and includes the amendments made by the other written laws referred to in the following table. The table also contains information about any reprint.\n\nCompilation table\n\n| **Citation** | **Gazettal** | **Commencement** |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| *W.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Regulations 1981* | 27 Nov 1981 p. 4839‑46 | 27 Nov 1981 |\n| *W.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Amendment Regulations 1983* | 1 Jul 1983 p. 2189‑90 | 1 Jul 1983 (see r. 2) |\n| *W.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Amendment Regulations 1988* | 16 Jun 1989 p. 1746‑7 | 16 Jun 1989 |\n| *W.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Amendment Regulations 1990* | 1 Aug 1990 p. 3648 | 1 Aug 1990 (see r. 2) |\n| *W.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Amendment Regulations 1991* | 26 Jul 1991 p. 3929‑30 | 1 Aug 1991 (see r. 2) |\n| *W.A. Marine Amendment Regulations (No. 2) 1992* Pt. 7 | 30 Jun 1992    p. 2905‑9 | 1 Jul 1992 (see r. 2) |\n| *W.A. Marine Amendment Regulations 1992* Pt. 11 | 11 Aug 1992 p. 3976‑80 | 11 Aug 1992 |\n| *W.A. Marine Amendment Regulations 1993* Pt. 6 | 29 Jun 1993    p. 3184‑6 | 1 Jul 1993 (see r. 2) |\n| *W.A. Marine Amendment Regulations 1994* Pt. 7 | 14 Jun 1994    p. 2486‑93 | 1 Jul 1994 (see r. 2) |\n| *W.A. Marine Amendment Regulations 1995* Pt. 5 | 11 Jul 1995    p. 2946‑53 | 11 Jul 1995 |\n| *W.A. Marine Amendment Regulations 1996* Pt. 5 | 25 Jun 1996    p. 2998‑3005 | 25 Jun 1996 |\n| *W.A. Marine Amendment Regulations 1997* Div. 4 | 27 Jun 1997    p. 3141‑6 | 1 Jul 1997 (see r. 2) |\n| *W.A. Marine Amendment Regulations 1998* Div. 4 | 12 May 1998    p. 2790‑5 | 1 Jul 1998 (see r. 2) |\n| *W.A. Marine Amendment Regulations 2000* r. 5 | 20 Jun 2000 p. 3062‑71 | 1 Jul 2000 (see r. 2) |\n| **Reprint of the *W.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Regulations 1981* as at 16 Feb 2001** (includes amendments listed above) | | |\n| *W.A. Marine Amendment Regulations 2001* r. 5 | 27 Jul 2001   p. 3803‑13 | 1 Aug 2001 (see r. 2) |\n| *W.A. Marine Amendment Regulations 2002* r. 5 | 14 Jun 2002 p. 2825‑35 | 1 Jul 2002 (see r. 2) |\n| *W.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Amendment Regulations 2003* | 27 Jun 2003 p. 2528 | 1 Jul 2003 (see r. 2) |\n| *W.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Amendment Regulations 2004* | 25 Jun 2004 p. 2262 | 1 Jul 2004 (see r. 2) |\n| *W.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Amendment Regulations 2005* | 24 Jun 2005 p. 2781‑2 | 1 Jul 2005 (see r. 2) |\n| *W.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Amendment Regulations 2006* | 23 Jun 2006 p. 2213‑14 | 1 Jul 2006 (see r. 2) |\n| **Reprint 2: The *W.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Regulations 1981* as at 3 Nov 2006** (includes amendments listed above) | | |\n| *W.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Amendment Regulations 2007* | 12 Jun 2007 p. 2730‑1 | 1 Jul 2007 (see r. 2) |\n| *W.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Amendment Regulations 2008* | 24 Jun 2008 p. 2897‑8 | r. 1 and 2: 24 Jun 2008 (see r. 2(a));   Regulations other than r. 1 and 2: 1 Jul 2008 (see r. 2(b)) |\n| *W.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Amendment Regulations 2009* | 12 Jun 2009 p. 2128‑9 | r. 1 and 2: 12 Jun 2009 (see r. 2(a));   Regulations other than r. 1 and 2: 1 Jul 2009 (see r. 2(b)) |\n| *W.A. Marine Amendment Regulations 2009* Pt. 10 | 11 Dec 2009 p. 5087‑109 | 12 Dec 2009 (see r. 2(b)) |\n| **Reprint 3: The *W.A. Marine (Radiotelephony) Regulations 1981* as at 5 Mar 2010** (includes amendments listed above) | | |\n\n\n2 The *Overseas Telecommunications Act 1946* (Cwlth.) was repealed by the *Telecommunications (Transitional Provisions and Consequential Amendments) Act 1991* (Cwlth. Act No. 99 of 1991) s. 24.\n\n3 The *Wireless Telegraphy Act 1905* (Cwlth.) was repealed by the *Radiocommunications (Transitional Provisions and Consequential Amendments) Act 1983* (Cwlth. Act No. 136 of 1983) s. 4.\n\n4 Repealed by these regulations on 27 November 1981.\n\nDefined terms\n\n*[This is a list of terms defined and the provisions where they are defined. The list is not part of the law.]*\n\n**Defined term Provision(s)**\n\nat sea 2(1)\n\ncarrier frequency 16(8)\n\ncertificate of survey 16(8)\n\ncoast station 2(1)\n\nCode 19(1)\n\ninstallation 2A\n\nlimited coast station 2(1)\n\nmaster 2(1)\n\nNSCV 19(1)\n\nradio surveyor 2A\n\nradio watch 2(1)\n\nseagoing ship 2(1)\n\nsilence periods 2(1)\n\nsurvey 2(1)\n\ntemporary certificate 16(8)\n\nthe former regulations 2(1)\n\nvessel 19(1)\n","sortOrder":0}],"analysis":{"flash_summary_failed":{"failed":true,"reason":"Unauthenticated. Configure AI_GATEWAY_API_KEY or use a provider module. Learn more: https://ai-sdk.dev/unauthenticated-ai-gateway","source":"analysis-cron"},"flash_summary":{"complexity_score":6,"scope_assessment":{"changed":true,"description":"The regulations have expanded from a single, self‑contained radiotelephony standard (the earlier 1981 framework) to a two‑track regime that distinguishes older vessels from those 'new' since 1 October 2009. For new vessels the instrument now incorporates external national standards (the Uniform Shipping Laws Code Section 12 and specific NSCV clauses) rather than relying solely on the schedules in the regulations (regs 22, 27). The change increases reliance on external codes and raises the technical/administrative linkage between state regulation and national standards. It also formalises an annual survey and fee structure (reg 16(2a)–(2b)) and tighter inspection/reporting duties for new vessels (Part 3 regs 24–26), thereby broadening the regulatory apparatus compared with the original standalone rules."},"complexity_factors":["Three substantive Parts (pre‑2009 vessels, post‑2009/new vessels, and preliminary section) with different compliance tracks (regs 2A, 3, 19–22).","Two technical Schedules (I and II) that contain multi‑clause electrical and radio specifications referencing external technical standards (RB 211B, RB 274).","Approximately 17 defined terms listed in the instrument, used across Parts and Schedules (defined terms list).","Multiple cross‑references to external instruments: Uniform Shipping Laws Code, NSCV, and historical Commonwealth Acts (regs 19–22, 27; notes).","Conditional logic and exceptions: rules differ by vessel age and classification, geographic operation (within 20 nautical miles), and during silence periods (reg 5, 3, 14).","Administrative sequencing and timing rules: 30‑day notice before fittings (reg 9); survey application timing and port‑specific scheduling (reg 16(2)).","Fees and staged survey outcomes with follow‑up fee for additional surveys (reg 16(2a)–(2b)).","Discretionary decision points and temporary certificates relying on departmental and surveyor judgment (reg 16(3)–(5); reg 24).","Recurring compliance tasks (daily testing, continuous radio watch, annual surveys, log entries) combining operational and documentary obligations (regs 10, 14–16).","Nested enforcement: modest monetary penalties (mostly $500) but administrative remedies (certificate cancellation) that affect vessel operation (reg 18; reg 16(5)–(6))."],"plain_english_summary":"**What this instrument does (mechanically)\n\n- Sets minimum radio (radiotelephony) equipment, installation, maintenance, testing and record-keeping requirements for commercial vessels registered in Western Australia.\n- Splits requirements by the vessel's date of construction: Part 2 applies to vessels in existence before 1 October 2009 and prescribes specific equipment standards (single‑sideband or VHF) and technical requirements in Schedules I and II (regs 3, 5, Scheds I–II). Part 3 applies to vessels that are \"new\" since that date and incorporates parts of the Uniform Shipping Laws Code and the National Standard for Commercial Vessels (NSCV) for modern compliance (regs 19–22, 27).\n- Requires owners and masters to keep equipment in serviceable condition, prevent electrical interference, provide appropriate spares, carry logbooks and a radiotelephone handbook, keep continuous radio watches while at sea (with narrow exceptions), and test equipment daily (regs 6–16, 11, 12, 14–15).\n- Establishes an annual survey regime performed by an approved radio surveyor, including the timing and procedures for original and periodic surveys, temporary certificates in limited circumstances, reporting and the power/supply obligations during surveys (reg 16). It specifies fees for original and follow‑up surveys (reg 16(2a)–(2b)).\n- Gives inspectors (radio surveyors) and the Department the powers to issue and cancel certificates and to inspect equipment and associated records (regs 16, 17; Part 3 regs 24–26).\n- Prescribes offences and penalties (mainly fines up to $500) for breaches of equipment, maintenance, watch‑keeping, testing, survey or record obligations (reg 18; Part 3 penalties in regs 25–27).\n\nWho it affects\n\n- Vessel owners and masters of commercial vessels of Classes 1, 2 and 3 (with specific exclusions such as Classes 1E/2E/3E and some hire & drive craft) (reg 3). For new vessels (as defined in the adopted Amendment List to the Code) the Part 3 obligations apply (regs 19–21).\n- Radio surveyors approved by the chief executive officer — they conduct surveys and make compliance reports (reg 2A; reg 16(4)).\n- The Department (and its chief executive officer) — responsible for processing survey applications, issuing/cancelling certificates, and approving radio surveyors (regs 2A, 16, 24).\n- Equipment manufacturers, suppliers and maintenance providers — demand for specific types of installations, spares and testing services is created by the standards in Schedules I and II.\n\nWhy it matters (official purpose and practical implications)\n\n- The stated purpose is to ensure reliable shipboard radiotelephony for safety and communications (see overall structure and reg 5 which prescribes equipment standards). Mechanically, it does that by mandating the type of radio fittings, maintenance, spare parts, daily testing, watch‑keeping and annual surveys.\n\nCosts, incentives and trade‑offs (practical testing of the rules)\n\n- Who pays: owners pay for fitting and maintaining equipment, carrying required spares, survey fees (original survey fee $478.30; follow‑up survey $235.90 at reg 16(2a)–(2b)), and any corrective work. Masters are responsible for day‑to‑day compliance (regs 6, 10, 15, 16(6)).\n- Who decides: technical judgment and many discretionary decisions rest with approved radio surveyors and the chief executive officer of the Department (approval of surveyors, acceptance of survey reports, temporary certificates, cancellation) (regs 2A, 16(3)–(5), 24).\n- Compliance burden: owners must install equipment meeting detailed technical standards (Schedules I & II), lodge 30 days’ notice before fittings (reg 9), maintain spares (reg 12), keep logbooks and records (reg 10), permit inspections (regs 16, 17, 26), and ensure daily testing and continuous radio watch while at sea subject to narrow exceptions (regs 14–15). These are recurrent costs and administrative tasks.\n- Incentives and substitution effects: the regulations permit either single‑sideband or VHF installations depending on the vessel’s operational area (reg 5). Vessel operators will choose the equipment standard that matches their operational profile (e.g. within 20 nautical miles and continuous Channel 16 watch -> VHF, reg 5(b)). That creates demand differentiation for suppliers and may lead owners to alter routing or operations to match cheaper compliance options.\n- Concentrated benefits and diffuse costs: benefits concentrate on providers of survey, installation and maintenance services and approved surveyors (market for technical services). Costs are spread across vessel owners/operators through equipment, survey, and record‑keeping obligations; penalties for breaches are modest fines but non‑compliance can lead to cancelled certificates and operational stoppage (regs 16(5)–(6), 18).\n- Implementation risk and bureaucratic discretion: the regime relies on the Department and approved radio surveyors for technical acceptance and issuing temporary certificates where survey timing is impracticable (reg 16(3)). That creates potential bottlenecks or variation in enforcement depending on departmental resourcing and surveyor availability.\n\nConcrete behavioural rules (selected mechanics with section references)\n\n- Install required equipment types and standards (single sideband per Schedule I for most seagoing ships; VHF per Schedule II where operating within 20 nm and keeping Channel 16 watch) (reg 5 and Scheds I–II).\n- Maintain equipment while at sea and prevent electrical interference from other shipboard apparatus (regs 6–7).\n- Notify the Department at least 30 days before fitting an installation (reg 9).\n- Carry a radio logbook and the radiotelephone handbook on board; enter daily tests and details of distress calls (reg 10).\n- Keep continuous radio watch while at sea (exceptions apply) and test equipment daily by reporting position to a coast or limited coast station (regs 14–15).\n- Submit vessels to periodic radio surveys by an approved radio surveyor and obtain a certificate of survey valid for 12 months (reg 16). Provide supply of power for tests while in port (reg 16(7)).\n- For new vessels, comply with incorporated Code/NSCV provisions and provide radio surveyor reports at initial and selected periodic surveys (Part 3, regs 22–27).\n\nKey implementation numbers and penalties\n\n- Survey fees: original survey $478.30; further (additional) survey $235.90 (reg 16(2a)–(2b)).\n- General fines: many infringements attract maximum fines of $500 (reg 18 and Part 3 penalties in regs 25–27).\n\nPrimary legal instruments and technical standards referenced\n\n- Schedules I and II contain detailed technical specifications (RB 211B and RB 274 specifications referenced in the Schedules) for single sideband and VHF installations respectively (Sched I cl 1; Sched II cl 1).\n- Part 3 incorporates Section 12 of the Uniform Shipping Laws Code and specific NSCV clauses for new vessels (regs 22, 27).\n\nBottom line in one sentence: These regulations set technical standards, inspection/survey routines, watch‑keeping, testing and record requirements for shipboard radiotelephony in Western Australia, allocate responsibility to vessel owners and masters, and place technical assessment and enforcement largely with approved radio surveyors and the Department (see regs 5–16; Part 3 regs 19–27)."},"summary":{"complexity_score":1,"scope_assessment":{"changed":false,"description":"Scope cannot be assessed as the legislative text was unavailable. The page returned a website error indicating the URL has changed due to system upgrades, providing no substantive legal content to analyse."},"complexity_factors":["No legislative content was retrievable — the page returned an error message only","Cannot assess actual regulatory complexity without access to the text","Score of 1 reflects absence of content, not simplicity of the underlying law"],"plain_english_summary":"The Marine (Radiotelephony) Regulations 1981 is a Western Australian delegated law that—based on its title—governs use of radiotelephony (two‑way radio) on vessels in WA waters. It would set rules on equipment, operator competence and radio procedures, affecting boat owners, vessel operators, commercial fishers and recreational boaters.\n\nIt matters for safety, reliable communications and legal compliance when operating marine radios."},"kimi_summary":{"content_quality":"ok","complexity_score":6,"scope_assessment":{"changed":true,"description":"The legislation has grown significantly beyond its original 1981 scope. Originally focused solely on technical radiotelephony equipment standards for Western Australian vessels, the 2009 amendments added Part 3 which fundamentally shifted the regulatory approach for new vessels. Instead of prescribing detailed technical standards in the regulations themselves, Part 3 incorporates by reference the Uniform Shipping Laws Code and National Standard for Commercial Vessels (NSCV)—national frameworks. This transformed the regulations from a standalone technical code into a hybrid instrument that bridges state and national maritime safety regimes, effectively outsourcing detailed technical standards to external codes while retaining enforcement mechanisms at the state level."},"complexity_factors":["Dual regulatory regimes: The legislation operates two parallel systems (Part 2 for pre-2009 vessels, Part 3 for post-2009 vessels) with different compliance pathways","Extensive cross-referencing: Part 3 incorporates external documents by reference (Uniform Shipping Laws Code, National Standard for Commercial Vessels) without reproducing their full text","Technical specifications: Schedules I and II contain detailed technical requirements for radio equipment (frequencies, power outputs, emission types like A3H/A3J, antenna specifications)","Multiple defined terms: 16 defined terms across the instrument, with separate definition sections for each Part (regulation 2 for Part 2, regulation 19 for Part 3)","Nested conditions: Requirements vary based on vessel class, distance from shore, type of installation, and whether the vessel is new or existing","Historical layering: 28 amendment entries in the compilation table spanning 1981-2009, indicating significant evolution and potential for inconsistent drafting styles","Obsolete references: Footnotes indicate repealed Commonwealth legislation (Overseas Telecommunications Act 1946, Wireless Telegraphy Act 1905) creating uncertainty about current interpretative context"],"plain_english_summary":"**What this legislation does:**\n\nThese regulations set out the rules for radio equipment (radiotelephony) on commercial vessels operating in Western Australian waters. They ensure ships can communicate for safety purposes—especially in emergencies.\n\n**Who it affects:**\n\n- **Commercial vessel owners and masters** (captains) of Class 1, 2, and 3 vessels operating beyond smooth waters\n- **Radio surveyors** (approved inspectors who check the equipment)\n- **Radiotelephone operators** (the people who operate the radio equipment)\n\n**Key requirements:**\n\nThe rules split vessels into two groups based on when they were built or came into service:\n\n**For older vessels (in service before 1 October 2009):**\n- Must carry approved radio equipment—either single sideband (long-range) or VHF (short-range) depending on how far from shore they operate\n- Equipment must be properly installed, maintained, and protected from salt water and temperature extremes\n- Must carry spare parts (valves, fuses, globes, spare antenna)\n- Must keep a continuous radio watch on distress frequencies (listening for emergency calls), except during specific breaks\n- Must test the equipment daily and log the results\n- Must undergo annual surveys by approved radio surveyors\n- Operators need proper certificates (qualifications)\n- Must carry a radio logbook and operator's handbook\n\n**For newer vessels (in service since 1 October 2009):**\n- Must comply with the **Uniform Shipping Laws Code** (a national standard) and the **National Standard for Commercial Vessels (NSCV)**\n- Must have a visible clock near the radio equipment\n- Must provide surveyor reports to the Department\n- Must keep logbooks and make equipment available for inspection\n\n**Why it matters:**\n\nThese rules exist to save lives at sea. If a vessel gets into trouble, working radio equipment means they can call for help on standard distress frequencies (like Channel 16 VHF or 2182 kHz). The regulations ensure ships can communicate with coast stations (shore-based radio stations) and other vessels, and that someone is always listening for distress calls during \"silence periods\" (set times when all radio traffic stops so emergency calls can be heard).\n\n**Penalties:**\nBreaching these regulations can result in fines up to $500 (as set in the 1980s/90s—this amount may have been updated by subsequent legislation)."},"issue_detection":{"absurdities":[],"contradictions":[]}},"importantCases":[],"_links":{"self":"/api/acts/w-a-marine-radiotelephony-regulations-1981","history":"/api/acts/w-a-marine-radiotelephony-regulations-1981/history","analysis":"/api/acts/w-a-marine-radiotelephony-regulations-1981/analysis","conflicts":"/api/acts/w-a-marine-radiotelephony-regulations-1981/conflicts","importantCases":"/api/acts/w-a-marine-radiotelephony-regulations-1981/important-cases","documents":"/api/acts/w-a-marine-radiotelephony-regulations-1981/documents"}}