Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) Compliance & Field Operations Section Operations, Services and Technology Branch
Overview Who is the ACMA How are Radiocommunications regulated LIPD Class licence What happens when things go wrong (effects) Examples of when things have gone wrong How ACMA responds to interference complaints How to minimise the risk of problems Reporting interference and non compliance Summary Questions
Who is the ACMA? The Australian Communications and Media Authority (the ACMA) is the Australian Government regulator for broadcasting, the internet, radiocommunications and telecommunications. The ACMA has responsibilities under four principal Acts - the Broadcasting Services Act 1992, the Telecommunications Act 1997, the Telecommunications (Consumer Protection and Service Standards) Act 1999 and the Radiocommunications Act 1992. The ACMA regulates use of the radio spectrum for the benefit of all Australians.
Spectrum Management Radiocommunications devices are primarily regulated through the use of licences. There are many different types of licences, however the three main types of licensees used are: Spectrum Licences Apparatus licences Class licences
Spectrum Management Class licence > Some wireless links between buildings > Garage door openers > DECT cordless phones > Baby monitors > RFID devices > WiFi > Radio controlled vehicles > Security systems > Remote car keys
Interference There are a number of issues that can cause interference, but the most common reasons are; 1. Faulty devices 2. Use of Non-Standard devices 3. Failure to comply with, or obtain a licence
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Interference Investigation Compliance and Field Operations Section (CFOS) Profile National service delivery model Inspectors located in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne; A fleet of 20 vehicles including 4 purpose built vans; All vehicles are equipped with communications monitoring and direction finding equipment. Access to 27 spectrum monitoring sites around Australia.
Interference Investigation
Interference Investigation The ACMA offers an interference diagnostic service to radiocommunications licensees and consumers of domestic television and radio broadcasting services. Compliance and enforcement role: > Transmitter licensing compliance > Compliance labelling arrangements > Interference management
Minimising the risk of interference What Is the ACMA doing? Priority Compliance Areas for 2015 /2016 > Radiocommunications transmitter licensing compliance > Light-emitting diode (LED) lighting compliance
Minimising the risk of interference Priority Compliance Areas > Transparent approach to cases of non-compliance > Focusing compliance activities on high risk matters > Adopting a range of compliance strategies > Allows for efficient escalation of high risk matters > Compliance achieved through partnering with industry and other regulators > Prevent non-compliance through targeted communications strategies > Supports escalated enforcement action in high risk cases
Supplier obligations > Supply only equipment compliant to the relevant Australian Standard. > Ensure equipment is operating in the correct frequency band > Look for the compliance mark when purchasing equipment
Importer and manufacturer obligations > Ensure equipment meets EMC regulatory requirements > Ensure devices meet all Australian standards > Hold compliance folders where required > Apply RCM labels where required > If unsure of requirements, engage a consultant
Resources http://www.acma.gov.au/theacma/library/industry-library/suppliers Reporting non-compliance to the ACMA http://www.acma.gov.au/theacma/equipment-compliance-andlabelling-complaints or Compliance.Operations@acma.gov.au
Summary > Wireless devices may cause harmful interference to other users > Look for the compliance mark when purchasing equipment > Equipment manufactures, importers and suppliers have a number of regulatory obligations > Penalties for causing interference can be substantial > Causing interference may result in safety to life
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