Ministerial Standard 244

Overview

The Radiocommunications (27 MHz Inshore Boating Service) Standards 1990, issued under the authority of the Radiocommunications Act 1992, address the need for specific technical standards for devices used in the 27 MHz Inshore Boating Service. The Radiocommunications Act 1992 empowers the Minister for Transport and Communications to establish these standards, ensuring that devices meet certain technical requirements necessary for their operation within this service. The Act aims to prevent interference and ensure the safe and efficient use of radiocommunications within the specified service. Following the legislative requirement for public consultation, the Minister published a proposed standard and invited comments from interested parties, leading to the finalisation and enactment of these standards on 30 July 1990. These standards apply specifically to limited coast stations, ship stations, and handheld stations designed for the 27 MHz Inshore Boating Service, outlining necessary technical specifications and operational requirements.

Scope and Application

The Ministerial Standard 244, issued under the Radiocommunications Act 1992, governs the technical standards for radiocommunication devices, specifically limited coast stations, ship stations, and handheld stations designed or intended for operation in the 27 MHz Inshore Boating Service. This standard applies to these devices to the extent they are intended for the specified service. The standard encompasses both transmitters and receivers, setting detailed technical requirements and operational standards for these devices to ensure safe and efficient radiocommunications within the designated service. It includes specifications for the performance, design, finish, construction, and necessary markings of these devices to prevent interference and ensure proper operation. The standard is applicable nationwide, ensuring consistency across different jurisdictions. The scope of the standard can be extended or modified through subordinate instruments as necessary to adapt to technological advancements or changes in radiocommunications needs. The standard was developed through a public consultation process, with a proposed standard published in the Gazette and circulated for comment among relevant stakeholders. The final standard was signed by the Minister for Transport and Communications on 30 July 1990, reflecting a comprehensive approach to establishing and maintaining technical standards for radiocommunication devices in Australia. The standard does not explicitly state any exclusions or exemptions but applies to the specified devices within the defined scope.

Key Provisions

The Ministerial Standard 244, issued under the Radiocommunications Act 1992, sets out specific technical requirements for devices used in the 27 MHz Inshore Boating Service, including limited coast stations, ship stations, and handheld stations. Clause 4 of the standard mandates that certain information must be visibly displayed on these devices, while Clause 5 requires that any adjustment mechanisms that could enable operation contrary to the technical requirements of the standard be restricted to prevent misuse. Clause 6 ensures that devices powered by batteries are protected against damage caused by the batteries themselves. Clause 7 details the operational requirements for transmitter channels, while Clause 8 stipulates that devices must meet the operating standards outlined in Parts 3 and 4 when used within specified temperature and voltage ranges. The standard imposes a range of obligations on the parties it governs. Clause 10 specifies emission modes and limits the type of information that can be transmitted on certain channels, while Clause 11 restricts operational frequency channels to those listed in item 2 of the Schedule. Clause 12 sets maximum limits for carrier frequency error, and Clause 13 ensures that transmitters are capable of operation on mandatory distress channels. Clause 23 requires receivers to be capable of demodulating specified emissions, and Clause 24 mandates that receivers be fitted for reception of distress channels. These requirements are designed to ensure the safe and efficient operation of devices within the 27 MHz Inshore Boating Service. Breaches of the Ministerial Standard 244 may lead to various consequences under the Radiocommunications Act 1992. While the standard itself does not specify penalties, non-compliance with the Act's provisions can result in both civil and criminal penalties. For instance, under section 147 of the Act, an individual or entity found to be in breach of a standard may be subject to a fine of up to $5,000 for each offence, while corporations may face fines of up to $25,000 for each offence. Additionally, under section 149, a person who contravenes a direction given under the Act may be liable to a fine of up to $1,000 for each offence. These penalties underscore the importance of adhering to the technical requirements set out in the Ministerial Standard 244.