Learn about Wireless Communications and Amateur Radio

Become a Radio Amateur

Amateur radio is an exciting and rewarding hobby that appeals to people of all ages, interests, and abilities.

Many professionals in electronics and communications began their careers with an early interest in amateur radio. Later in life, many retirees discover amateur radio as a vital and fulfilling pastime.

Whether you’re experimenting with wireless technology or building new friendships, amateur radio offers endless possibilities.

Here, you’ll learn how to become a licensed radio amateur in Australia and explore the fascinating world of wireless communications.

Scroll down to follow the links and discover more, but first, click the button below to watch recent videos about amateur radio in the 21st century.

Collage showing amateur radio activities, building and experimentation, radio orientering, antenna building, DX-peditions, parks and peaks operation, and a man using ham radio in a vehicle.

What can Amateur Radio do for You ?

Lots - Here are just a few examples.

  • Woman examining a circuit board in a laboratory

    Curious about How Things Work ? Love a Challenge ?

    Amateur radio is your gateway to an exciting world of technical exploration. Dive into the fascinating realms of electronics, wireless communications, antenna design, signal propagation, space communications, and more.

    You can track and send you signals through orbiting amateur radio satellites and even talk to astronauts on the International Space Station.

  • Person with a backpack and antenna using a radio in a forested mountainous area.

    Passion for Adventure ?

    Summits on the Air (SOTA) and Parks on the Air (POTA) groups are for people who love the great outdoors.

    Some radio amateurs operate their equipment from majestic peaks, or national parks, and compete for national and international awards. Reach for the skies with amateur radio.

  • Chad, WE9V sitting in his contesting station with multiple radios and monitors.

    Competitive Spirit ?

    People with a competitive spirit will love amateur radio contesting.

    Radio amateurs compete against each other and collect awards for greatest number of countries or regions contacted, or the greatest number of stations contacted in a period of time.

    Also, teams of radio amateurs go on DX-peditions, where they set up stations in very rare, remote, or inaccessible counties or islands, (DX is code for long distance).

    Photo: Thanks to Chad WE9V

  • SUV on top of Big-Red sand dune in the Simpson Desert, Australia. Tall whip antenna on the front with a red flag to warn drivers coming the opposite direction.

    Feeling Alone ?

    Boaties, 4WD enthusiasts, remote area travellers, and adventurers of all sorts, appreciate the added safety of having reliable communications.

    Unlike mobile phones that don’t work everywhere, or satellite services that don’t work in bad weather, amateur radio works everywhere, anytime.

    With amateur radio you are never alone.

    Photo: Top ‘Big Red’ sand dune, Simpson Desert, QLD.

  • A group of people, mostly young, sitting at tables engaged in electronics projects. They are using soldering tools and various components. An event banner for 'Jaycar' is visible in the background. Other individuals are standing or walking around, observing or participating in the activity.

    A Hobby For All Ages

    Younger people particularly enjoy on-air competitions, learning to solder and building simple electronic circuits, or just mucking about and learning what they can do with radio.

    Students gain practical hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies in wireless and Information technology (including AI), with highly experienced people willing to mentor and provide guidance.

    For older people, amateur radio presents a dynamic, challenging, and rewarding pastime with a strong social network.

  • Group photo of eight men in white shirts in front of trees, with a radio antenna overhead, on a sandy surface near the ocean.

    Friends Everywhere

    Join a network of passionate individuals who share your interests, exchange knowledge, and form lasting friendships. With amateur radio you will make new friends near and far.

    Local amateur radio clubs are located throughout Australia and are a great resource for obtaining your amateur radio licence and getting started.

Get on Air - Step 1