Amateur radio uses the radio spectrum that is highly regulated to prevent different radio stations from interfering with each other. Also, because radio signals don’t stop at national borders, the radio spectrum is also strongly regulated internationally.

The International Telecommunications Union (ITU) makes international rules for the use of the radio spectrum and these rules are adopted and administered in Australia (with some changes for local conditions) by the ACMA.

The ACMA issues licenses for the use of the radio spectrum to all transmitting stations. Amateur radio operators are licensed under a ‘Class Licence’ which is a single licence for all.

Applicants are authorised to use the 'Class Licence' after passing a multiple-choice knowledge assessment in the presence of an accredited assessor.

There are no ongoing licence fees after the initial application fee.

The purpose of the knowledge assessment is to ensure a new radio amateur has the skills to operate their transmitting station safely, within the regulations, and not cause interference to other radio users, nationally or internationally.

There are three licence levels, Foundation, Standard, and Advanced. Most people will pass the Foundation assessment with just a weekend’s study. The Standard level is harder but still quite accessible for someone with basic experience in radio technology. The Advanced level is for seasoned radio technologists and may require significant study.

Each licence level has different transmitting privileges, such as permitted frequency bands and power. The Advanced level gives the maximum privileges and is recognised in most other countries should you relocate.

The links below will show you what you need to know for the Foundation Grade (the easiest grade) authorisation. Don’t worry if it’s all new to you - we help you through it.

Photo: South East Radio Group (SERG) training session

Foundation Grade Assessment Framework

Foundation Grade Diagrams and Formula Sheet

Amateur radio training courses are provided by some local radio clubs and several other providers.

Click on the button below to find your closest provider and their contact details. Use the button at the top of the new page to select your State and your nearest club. Check that they do provide training and assessments (not all do and most that do require your attendance).

Other providers do the training on-line, but under current ACMA regulations you will need to personally attend the assessment.

Special assessments are available for people living in remote areas or for people with disabilities that prevent them from travelling.

You do not need to complete a training course so, if you are already knowledgeable on the subject, you can just attend an assessment event.

The cost of training and assessment will vary between providers, but it is very modest.

There are many amateur radio learning resources, both in print and on-line.

Most people will start with the Foundation level, and the most popular and comprehensive resource is the ‘Foundation Licence Manual - Your Entry Into Amateur Radio’ fourth edition edited by Phil Wait and published by the Wireless Institute of Australia.

This manual contains everything you need to know for your Foundation level assessment, plus more. Anyone making a start into wireless technology will find this manual a great resource.

If you are intending to study for the Standard or Advanced levels you will need a more advanced manual such as the ‘Radio Theory Handbook for Amateur Operators’ 6th Edition by Fred Swainston ISBN: 0 646 35449 5

The button below will take you to the WIA bookshop where you can obtain a vast array of information about amateur radio.

Also refer to the relevant Assessment Framework and make sure you are learning the Australian regulations (not some other countries regulations which will be different).