1800 406 406, the new help line for queries about distress beacons

AMSA has announced that a new freecall number, 1800 406 406 has been established for the public to use to make enquiries about registration of distress beacons and MMSI numbers and general issues with regard to distress beacons.

The freecall number will operate between 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM weekdays. The number will be answered by staff responsible for the maintenance of the registration database who have a fairly extensive knowledge of distress beacons and the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system supporting search and rescue.

In the event of a urgent search and rescue matter, the freecall number for the Rescue Coordination Centre in Canberra, 1800 641 792 that operates 24 hours a day should be used.

International callers can reach the advice desk on +61 2 6279 5766 and, for urgent SAR matters, RCC Australia on +61 2 6230 6811.