Skip to main content
Skip navigation

You are here: Home > Communications > HF Radio Communications

  • print
  • email

HF Radio Communications

To contact the RFDS by HF radio 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 who can be found in the yellow pages under ‘radio’.  

How to Contact the RFDS via HF Radio Emergency Call Button Facility

Please note that the Emergency Call Facility is no longer available in Western Australia and Cairns, Queensland (as at 1 October 2010)

An emergency call is when you may need medical assistance from an RFDS Doctor.

  • Select the appropriate frequency for the Base you wish to contact, and then transmit the Emergency call by pushing and holding the Emergency Call button on the radio for at least 20 seconds. Newer model radios have a timer that allows you to press the button for a few seconds and then let go and the timer will activate for a period of time.
  • The RFDS system will respond within a minute if our equipment has detected the call. It takes our system 10 seconds of continuous emergency tone monitoring before it activates.
  • If you do not get a response, select another frequency and try again.
  • Once you get a response, there is no need for further activations of the Emergency Call button.

Alternatively

In Western Australia:
  • If you have a Selcall equipped radio please try the Selcall numbers listed on the HF Radio Frequency page, click here.
  • Select the appropriate frequency and transmit your emergency by voice. If you do not get a response, select another frequency and try again.
In Queensland:
  • If you have a Selcall equipped radio please try the Selcall numbers listed on the HF Radio Frequency page, click here.  

Please Note - Voice initiated calls are NOT monitored by RFDS Queensland although scanning of these frequencies may occur outside of RFDS Queensland. If you do not get a response from a voice initiated emergency call, select another frequency and try again; or alternatively

Licensing of Radio Equipment

You will need an Outpost Non-assigned Radio Licence to transmit using an HF Radio. Information as to the cost and the relevant application forms may be obtained from:


Australian Communications and Media Authority. Check the White Pages for your nearest office or email