SUBARU 4WD CLUB NEWS
Essential Distress Beacon Information
After 1 Feb 2010, it will be illegal to use a 121.5 MHz Distress beacon for ANY purpose. From 1 February 2009, 121.5 MHz distress beacons are no longer detected by satellite – you must switch to a 406 MHz distress beacon as soon as possible. Do not risk your life by using a 121.5 MHz distress beacon. Supply The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has done everything that it can to stimulate supply of 406 MHz distress beacons that meet Australian Standards. Ultimately, market supply is a matter for manufacturers and distributors. If you experience shortage of supply please contact the manufacturers and distributors directly. A list of distress beacon models approved and available for sale in Australia can be viewed here.
Warning 121.5 MHz distress beacons should no longer be offered for sale without the seller advising you that they will no longer be licensed for distress alerting from 1 February 2009 and will no longer be detected by satellite from this date. Please advise AMSA if you are offered a 121.5 MHz distress beacon without an appropriate warning. Page 30