Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB), are used on ships or boats and Personal Locator Beacons (PLB's) are used on persons. PLBs are not a substitute for EPIRBs when adhering to State and Territory marine regulations.

For more detailed information on distress beacons or to register your 406MHz distress beacon visit the Australian Maritime Safety Authority website

Ensure you have the correct distress beacon for your own safety and the safety of your crew. For information on the individual State and Territory carriage requirements, click on the link to the relevant state authority below:

NEW SOUTH WALES    NORTHERN TERRITORY    QUEENSLAND    SOUTH AUSTRALIA   TASMANIA    VICTORIA    WESTERN AUSTRALIA

IMPORTANT DISTRESS BEACON INFORMATION

Since 1 February 2010, old analogue EPIRBs and PLBs operating on 121.5 MHz are no longer licensed for use and since February 2009 have not been detectable by satellites. If you have an old 121.5MHz unit, you must switch to a 406 MHz unit before your next adventure.

Registration of your 406 MHz Distress Beacon is valid for two years. A registration sticker will not be issued until your beacon registration details are validated as current. A fine may result if a current sticker is not affixed to a beacon during a safety equipment inspection.