The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has officially made the Radiocommunications Equipment (General) Amendment Rules 2026 (No. 1), dated 15 January 2026.
This amendment updates the Radiocommunications Equipment (General) Rules 2021 to extend labelling and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) exemptions for electric-vehicle suppliers who are members of the Electric Vehicle Council. All other technical and safety requirements under the Radiocommunications Act 1992 and the Radiocommunications Equipment (General) Rules 2021 remain fully in effect.
This update applies only to members of the Electric Vehicle Council, and does not alter compliance responsibilities for non-member manufacturers or general radio equipment suppliers.
Background
The amendment forms part of ACMA’s ongoing work to support the development and deployment of low-emission and electric transport technologies in Australia. Under the Radiocommunications Act 1992, all equipment that emits or receives radiofrequency energy must generally comply with labelling, record-keeping, and EMC obligations. However, to encourage innovation and streamline compliance pathways for electric vehicle systems, ACMA has introduced limited exemptions for qualifying suppliers.
Changes to the Labelling Rules
The amendment modifies section 5.3 and Schedule 4 of the Radiocommunications Equipment (General) Rules 2021. It introduces a new exemption category for suppliers of radiocommunications transmitters and receivers used in electric vehicles, provided those suppliers are members of the Electric Vehicle Council.
Under this change, eligible suppliers are no longer required to affix the Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM) or maintain related labelling records for equipment used solely within EV systems. This adjustment recognises the specialised nature of automotive radio technologies and removes duplicated compliance requirements where equivalent standards are already met through other regulatory frameworks.
Expansion of EMC Exemptions
In addition to labelling relief, the amendment extends electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) exemptions for certain radio transmitters and receivers integrated into electric vehicles. These exemptions apply specifically to equipment used for communication, control, or monitoring functions within EV platforms, where the risk of interference with other radio systems is minimal.
ACMA’s decision aligns with broader regulatory goals to simplify pathways for emerging transport technologies while maintaining protections against harmful interference. The amendment supports manufacturers and suppliers in bringing compliant, energy-efficient vehicle technologies to the Australian market more efficiently.
To read the official documentation, access below:
Let Us Help You
At C-PRAV Australia, we help manufacturers, importers, and suppliers understand and comply with ACMA’s evolving regulatory framework.
Our team provides expert support in radiocommunications equipment testing, EMC compliance, documentation review, and labelling guidance to ensure your products meet Australian requirements with confidence.
Whether you’re developing wireless modules for electric vehicles or managing compliance for broader radio-enabled systems, C-PRAV delivers a clear and reliable pathway to certification and market access. Contact us today here.