A key message to anyone wanting to upgrade to Standard is to find out what is involved so that they can make an informed decision.
It is important to have a commitment in terms of time and effort over a number of weeks. Standard requires knowledge of a wider range of topics, many of which will be in more depth than in Foundation. This is necessary to reflect the greater operating privileges given to this level.
There is no textbook that is specifically aimed at the Standard level but the following texts are recommended. Radio Theory Handbook - Ronald Bertrand and Radio Theory Handbook for Amateurs - Fred Swainston, available from the Wireless Institute of Australia
The pass grade is a minimum of 21 correct answers
If you have no Amateur Radio licence the following assessments will be requiredACMA recognition certificate (Standard) Syllabus and examination information
Amateur Radio Victoria offers an on-line tutorial when there is sufficient demand.
Amateur Radio Victoria offers on line assessments for all levels of amateur radio qualifications, contact Peter Cossins VK3BFG vk3bfg@amateurradioamateurradio.com.auau
Amateur Radio Victoria
Remote Examination Process
ACMA Recognition Certificate
Australian Communicatons and Media Authority (ACMA) is responsible for managing all the radio spectrum in Australia and also the administration of Amateur Radio assessments.
Your first action is to send an email to your selected Assessor with the following information.
Clearly indicate which assessments are required.
If you are already have a Foundation level then you will not need to repeat the practical.
The remote examination process necessitates two video sources with Internet access. For instance, you can utilise a single PC equipped with its camera alongside a laptop or mobile phone, the latter providing a clear view of the work area.
Remote assessment
The communication is conducted using Zoom. You'll receive a link via email, and all you need to do is click on it at the scheduled time. There's no requirement for Zoom to be installed on your PC.
A second link will be sent to connect you to view the examination paper on the PC facing you. It's essential to ensure your workspace is visible at all times.
At the end of the allocated time, close the examination paper link. Then, scan or take a photo of the answer sheet and promptly send it to me via email.
We will then undertake the practical by Q and A and simulations if that component has not been undertaken previously.
Your Driver's License or Passport will also need to be viewed for formal identification purposes. If you have already achieved a Recognition Level and you are upgrading, then you will not need apply for a callsign unless you wish a change.
After the assessment the assessor will mark your paper, advise you of the result and upload it to the ACMA.
Before being able to operate, the candidate has to apply to the ACMA and receive:
Visit Qualifications to operate amateur radio
ACMA Fees and Charges: to 30 June 2024
Peter Cossins VK3BFG
ACMA Specialist Assessor
Amateur Radio Victoria
vk3bfg@amateurradioamateurradio.com.auau
Assessments can also be undertaken in the Amateur Radio Victoria rooms in Ashburton.
These options will be dependent on government regulations for a safe environment.
After successfully acheiving a pass grade you can apply to the ACMA for a callsign.
View the publically available callsigns before making a decision.
All callsigns allocated in Victoria have a VK3 prefix. Eg VK3XYZ.
Any operator with a callsign may keep it when upgrading. The letter R is reserved for Repeaters. eg VK3RML.