Regulatory Compliance News

ACMA Finalizes Updated Cordless Communications Devices Class License

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) officially remade and finalized the Radiocommunications (Cordless Communications Devices) Class Licence 2024, updating spectrum arrangements and regulatory conditions for short-range voice equipment. Replacing the legacy 2014 regulatory framework prior to its sunsetting date, the modernized class licence governs authorized spectrum access for low-power wireless audio hardware—including residential and commercial cordless telephones, DECT handsets, wireless microphones, and commercial headsets—enabling license-free operation provided devices adhere to strict technical conditions.

A key outcome of the regulatory update includes structural spectrum shifts designed to optimize national frequency allocations. ACMA formally removed authorization for the 857–861 MHz and 861–865 MHz frequency bands from the class licence as part of its long-term re-planning strategy for the 803–960 MHz spectrum. Additionally, the regulator updated technical operating rules within the 1880–1900 MHz band to support advanced Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT) applications and align with broader 1880–1920 MHz band arrangements. Furthermore, following public consultations, ACMA varied the class licence to remove restrictive conditions that limited certain devices strictly to private use, broadening operational flexibility for commercial and enterprise deployments.

Manufacturers, importers, and suppliers placing short-range audio equipment on the Australian market must ensure ongoing compliance with ACMA’s General Equipment Rules, electromagnetic energy (EME) standards set by ARPANSA, and applicable EMC standards. Devices must be verified through a valid Supplier's Declaration of Conformity (SDoC) and affix the Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM) to maintain legal market access. Equipment vendors operating in affected frequency bands should verify their technical construction files to ensure alignment with the updated operational parameters.