The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has introduced the new Australian Waters Qualification (AWQ) for using VHF marine radio.

Previously, to use VHF marine radio in Australian Territorial Waters (within 12 nautical miles off the coast), you needed to obtain a Certificate of Proficiency or an equivalent overseas qualification. Now all you need is an AWQ instead – a much more appropriate, streamlined option for boaties.

Marine radios save lives. The AWQ teaches users how to use the radio properly, how to respond in an emergency, the correct protocols and frequencies to use and how and when to use an EPIRB. Knowledge of distress and safety procedures helps everyone involved in an emergency.

The AWQ is available from any registered training organisation (RTO) that offers it. Most volunteer marine rescue groups are either an RTO in their own right or have a relationship with an RTO, so they are able to test boaters for the AWQ and issue a statement of attainment.

There is also an online training package available at the Australian and New Zealand Safe Boating Education Group (ANZSBEG) website to help boaters prepare for the assessment.

As part of the changes, ACMA's other existing marine radio qualifications have been renamed:

• Marine Radio Operator Certificate of Proficiency (MROCP) has become the Long-Range Operator Certificate of Proficiency

• Marine Radio Operator VHF Certificate of Proficiency (MROVCP) has become the Short-Range Operator Certificate of Proficiency.

These certificates remain unchanged and are issued for life, so you will not need to re-take them.

There are significant penalties for operating a VHF marine radio without the appropriate qualification – so it's best to make sure you're properly qualified!

For more information on VHF marine radio qualifications, >Head to the ACMA website.