Beacons

Register or update your distress beacon/MMSI

Beacons news

Communications

AMSA is transitioning from using paper based to electronic communication for contacting beacon owners about their accounts.

Starting 1 July 2024, we will no longer provide paper registration confirmations and reminder letters.

These will be provided via email or SMS.

 

Prepare to survive

Changes to EPIRB laws for DCVs

From 1 January 2021, new laws covering the carriage of emergency position indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs) will apply to certain types of domestic commercial vessels.

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No matter whether you’re travelling by land, sea or air, a GPS equipped distress beacon can mean all the difference in a life- threatening situation. Beacon registration can be completed online for free.

Torres Strait rescue highlights importance of distress beacons

Published May 2024

AMSA successfully coordinated the rescue of three people in the Torres Strait. A registered beacon can allow AMSA to immediately respond.

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Beacon information

Buying a beacon

  1. Find which beacon is right for you
  2. Select a beacon approved in Australia
  3. Why is GPS best?
  4. Buying a second hand beacon
  5. Register your new beacon

Looking after your beacon

  1. Keep your registration up to date
  2. Replace your batteries before they expire
  3. Store your beacon correctly
  4. Test your beacon
  5. Dispose responsibly
  6. Service your beacon after use

Using your beacon

  1. In a life-threatening situation, activate your beacon
  2. Ensure you deploy your beacon correctly
  3. What happens after you activate your beacon