Radio Compliance Approval
for Australia
Understanding ACMA Radio Compliance
In Australia, the use and sale of radio communications devices are regulated by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). To ensure that your device can be legally sold and operated in Australia, it must comply with the relevant ACMA standards and regulations. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps for obtaining radio communication approval, including the use of pre-certified modules, compliance with local standards, and the labeling requirements.
Key Standards for RF Exposure:
Low-Power, Short-Range Devices (SRDs)
Short-Range Devices (SRDs), such as Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth gadgets, and garage door openers, typically operate under a Class Licence in Australia. This means they do not require an individual license but must comply with specific technical standards and conditions set by ACMA.
If your device uses a pre-certified radio module (e.g., CE or FCC compliant), it may simplify the approval process, but you must still ensure it meets Australian requirements.
Short-Range Devices (SRDs)
Frequency Bands: Often operate in license-exempt bands such as 2.4 GHz or 433 MHz.
Regulatory Focus: Must comply with limits on output power and spurious emissions to avoid causing interference.
Long-Range Devices
Frequency Bands: Operate in licensed bands, meaning they require a license to use.
Regulatory Focus: These devices must meet rigorous requirements for frequency stability, power output, and emission control
Standards for Radio Compliance
International standards, specifically those from Europe (EN) and the United States (FCC), often serve as a baseline for testing and certification. However, these standards must be cross-referenced with ACMA’s specific requirements to ensure full radio compliance in Australia.
EN Standards (European Norms)
EN 300 220 (Short-Range Devices):
This standard applies to SRDs operating in the 25 MHz to 1,000 MHz frequency range. It includes devices such as remote controls, alarms, and telemetry systems..
EN 300 328 (2.4 GHz SRDs):
Covers wideband SRDs operating in the 2.4 GHz ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) band, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi devices.
EN 300 330
Radio equipment in the frequency range 9 kHz to 25 MHz. his standard covers low-frequency SRDs, including RFID systems and inductive loop devices, typically used for access control and tracking.
EN 300 440
For, SRDs operating in the frequency range 1 GHz to 40 GHz, including systems like radar detectors and vehicle radar.
EN 301489 :
This standard ensures that radio devices and telecommunications equipment can coexist without causing or suffering from electromagnetic interference. EN 301 489-17 covers the specific EMC aspects for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other short-range devices (SRDs), while EN 301 489-3 is for keyless entry systems and RFID.
EN 301 893
Applies to wireless LAN (WLAN) equipment operating in the 5 GHz frequency band, including Wi-Fi routers and access points.
EN 303 413
Satellite Earth Stations and Systems (SES); Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers; Radio equipment operating in the 1164 MHz to 1300 MHz and 1559 MHz to 1610 MHz frequency bands, applicable for GPS devices.
EN 301 908 (Long-Range Devices):
For Cellular base stations, LTE, UMTS, and GSM equipment.
EN 302 502 (5 GHz Broadband Wireless Access):
For fixed wireless access systems in the 5 GHz band. Like, Broadband wireless networks, point-to-point communications.
FCC Standards (United States)
FCC Part 15 (Short-Range Devices):
For Unlicensed devices, including most SRDs. Like, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, wireless microphones.
FCC Part 15.247
Frequency Bands Covered: 902-928 MHz, 2400-2483.5 MHz, and 5725-5850 MHz. Common devices include Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, and some cordless phones.
FCC Part 15.249
Frequency Bands Covered: 902-928 MHz, 2400-2483.5 MHz, 5725-5875 MHz, and 24.0-24.25 GHz. Common applications include simple RF remote controls, some RFID systems, and garage door openers
FCC Part 22 (Long-Range Devices – Public Mobile Services):
For Cellular base stations and mobile phones.
FCC Part 90 (Private Land Mobile Radio Services):
For Public safety and industrial communication systems. Like, Police and fire communication systems, private business radios.
ACMA Approval Process
To ensure your device is compliant with Australian standards, even if it includes a pre-certified radio module, it must adhere to the specific requirements of AS/NZS 4268 which is the key standard that applies to radio equipment operating in ISM bands (such as 915 MHz, 2.4 GHz, and 5.8 GHz). It’s crucial to verify that the operating frequencies and power levels align with Australian specifications, as these may differ from those in Europe or the United States.
Additionally, the combination of the radio module and the host device must not exceed the tested and certified configuration. If your device’s configuration or operational parameters differ from the module’s original certification (such as CE or FCC), additional testing may be necessary. This testing should be conducted by accredited laboratories familiar with both international and Australian standards. Obtaining valid test reports that demonstrate compliance with AS/NZS 4268 or any other relevant standards is essential.
Supplier Declaration of Conformity (SDoC)
Is a critical document for radio compliance in Australia affirming that your device meets all relevant ACMA standards. This document should be compiled in a compliance folder along with test reports, technical documentation, and any other supporting materials. The SDoC must be signed by the responsible supplier, whether that’s the manufacturer or importer.
Once your device meets all compliance requirements, it must be labeled with the Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM). To do this, register your business with ACMA through the Electrical Equipment Safety System (EESS) if you haven’t done so already. This registration authorizes you to use the RCM on your device. The RCM should be affixed to the device itself, or if not practical, it can be applied to the packaging or included in the user manual.
Finally, maintaining ongoing compliance is crucial. This involves keeping a detailed compliance folder with all relevant documentation, including test reports, SDoCs, and technical specifications. Regularly reviewing your device’s compliance, particularly if there are changes to its design, components, or the regulatory environment, ensures that it continues to meet all required standards and is prepared for any potential audit or inspection by ACMA.
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Why C-PRAV?
We offer expert guidance through the complexities of Australian regulations. As a NATA-accredited lab, we ensure your devices meet all ACMA standards, including AS/NZS 4268, with precise testing and certification. Our tailored services streamline the compliance process, from testing to labeling with the RCM, ensuring your products are fully compliant and market-ready. With C-PRAV, you gain a reliable partner committed to quality, efficiency, and your product’s successful entry into the Australian market.
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The timeline varies depending on testing needs and documentation preparation but can take several weeks.
Yes, ACMA may accept test reports from accredited overseas labs, but they must align with Australian standards.
AS/NZS 4268 for short-range devices.
An SDoC is a document that declares your device meets all relevant ACMA standards. It must be prepared by the responsible supplier (manufacturer or importer) and is a critical part of the compliance process.
A Class Licence covers low-power devices that don’t need an individual license, while a specific radio licence is required for higher power or specialized devices.
You may need to re-test the device and update your compliance documentation, including the SDoC.
Regulatory Updates for AU/NZ
Australia: ACMA establishes framework for upper 6 GHz spectrum band
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has announced the establishment of a regulatory framework for the upper 6 GHz spectrum band (6425–7125 MHz), a significant step towards enhancing wireless communication capabilities in the country. The consultation will begin from first half of 2024. This consultation will investigate its potential
ACMA Updates RALI FX16 for Improved Spectrum Management
Effective May 17, 2024, ACMA’s updated Radiocommunications Assignment and Licensing Instruction (RALI) FX16 introduces enhancements for better spectrum coordination and management. New Criteria and Guidance: Additional criteria and detailed guidance aim to improve frequency coordination with spectrum licensed services, ensuring more efficient spectrum use. Revised Assignment Strategy: For two-frequency fixed
ACMA’s Initiative: Revamping Regulations for Public Telecommunication Services and Cellular Mobile Telecommunication Devices
The consultation period for the revision of the Radiocommunications Licence Conditions (PTS Licence) Determination 2013 and Radiocommunications (Cellular Mobile Telecommunications Devices) Class Licence 2014 instruments concluded on December 1, 2023. After carefully reviewing the received submissions, ACMA has made the decision to remake the instruments and introduce amendments to the