This article explains how wireless microphones work, the legal requirements for using them in Australia,and how your parish can check which frequencies are allowed in your area.
When running parish events or services, you may need to amplify sound for speakers or musicians.
Using wireless microphones is a safer and more flexible option than running cables across the floor.However, they require some basic technical knowledge and must be used within legal frequency limits.
A wireless microphone system has two components:
These two devices “communicate” with each other via ultra-high-frequency (UHF) radio signals.
UHF signals exist between 300MHz and 3GHz of the radio frequency spectrum. However, thisbandwidth is not just used by wireless microphones, but also television broadcasting, mobile phones, satellite communication, and other applications. This is why wireless audio equipment can only be legally operated within certain UHF frequencies, and the permissible frequencies vary geographically.
Wireless audio equipment must only use frequencies allowed by law. Using the wrong frequency can cause interference and lead to significant fines.
As of 1 January 2015, the legal frequency ranges in Australia are:
However, not all frequencies in these ranges are available everywhere. Some may overlap with local TV stations or other services. Two ranges currently reserved for wireless microphones are:
*These may change in the future, so it’s important to check regularly.
Visit the ACMA website and use the search tool to enter your parish address. This will show which frequencies are safe and legal to use.
You don’t need a licence to use wireless microphones. Just follow the Low Interference
Potential Devices (LIPD) class licence rules.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) regulates all UHF usage in Australia. They manage broadcasting, radio communications, and internet and phone services.
