Communications

The RFDS across Australia provide a HF radio network for both travellers and people residing in rural and remote parts of Australia, which is referred to as our “Mantle of Safety”.

Access to a RFDS radio base may vary from state to state.

In Western Australia, Derby, Port Hedland, Carnarvon, Meekatharra and Kalgoorlie are remote controlled back to Perth at Jandakot airport providing state-wide coverage 24hrs. Voice and alarm monitoring is available.

In South Australia – Alice Springs is remote controlled back to Port Augusta, voice and alarm monitoring is available.

In NSW – Broken Hill is the only radio base and has voice and alarm monitoring

In Queensland – there are bases at Charleville, Mount Isa and Cairns which can only be contacted via emergency alarm buttons, ie there is no voice monitoring.

You will need an HF transceiver fitted with RFDS frequencies for the area of operations you need to talk to us. Transceivers are available from a number of suppliers. An Outpost Radio Licence is also required to legally operate the transceiver and is obtained via the Australian Communications Authority.

For a list of the RFDS HF radio frequencies see page HF & UHF Radio