Maritime Safety information | Maritime Mobile Service Identity | AUSREP and REEFREP
Do you know about the GMDSS?
Can you use a DSC Radio correctly?
Download brochure - Digital Selective Calling, Frequently Asked Questions [
PDF: 404Kb]
You are seeking a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) for use with a marine transceiver equipped with Digital Selective Calling (DSC) or Automatic Identification System (AIS). If your Marine Radio Operator's Certificate of Proficiency (or equivalent) is older than January 1999 your course and qualification may not have included instruction on the GMDSS and DSC transceiver in particular.
If this is the case, AMSA strongly recommends that you gain the necessary knowledge to use your DSC transceiver correctly. This will allow you to gain the full potential benefit of owning and operating a GMDSS-compatible transceiver.
Incorrect use of DSC transceivers and the inadvertent sending of DSC distress alerts places extra load on the search and rescue system and could divert search and rescue resources from a real distress situation.
AMSA recommends that you update your qualifications by completing a current course that includes an explanation of the GMDSS and instruction on the use of DSC transceivers.
Further information about courses can be found by contacting the Office of Maritime Communications (OMC) at the Australian Maritime College (AMC) on 1300 365 262 or the AMC websiteFurther information about GMDSS can be found on the AMSA web site
There is also a wealth of information about GMDSS on the USCG Navigation Center site
The Australian Global Maritime Distress and Safety System Handbook is the recommended textbook for candidates wishing to qualify for the GMDSS General Operator's Certificate of Proficiency. This is also a handy reference manual.It is available from any AMSA office.