WIA asks for Changes to Sub-Antarctic Callsign Prefixes

The Wireless Institute of Australia has responded to the regulator's request for input on its Five-Year Spectrum Outlook, spanning 2026 through to 2031, and its Work Program, spanning 2026-2027. It is asking that the Australian Communications and Media Authority improve spectrum access to support experimentation and emerging technologies; modernise regulation of repeaters and beacons; and develop a staged EME competence framework that will give amateurs greater access to operating at increased power safely. The WIA has been actively seeking greater power for hams since 2013. It told the ACMA that increased power for the class licence should be backed up by training, certification and communications industry best practices.

The WIA has also asked that the callsign prefixes be changed in the sub-Antarctic, restoring VKØ for operations on Heard Island and Macquarie Island, which are now assigned the VK9 prefix of Australian external territories. The WIA is also proposing that the VK9 prefix be restored for Lord Howe Island, which is presently assigned VK2.  

The response to the consultation highlights ham radio's key role in STEM, innovation and emergency communications, noting that a number of the issues it has raised address barriers to ham radio's growth and operators' participation and efficiency.

Closure of BBC Radio 4 on Long Wave (LW)

Radio 4’s Long Wave (LW) service will close on the 27th June 2026. We will broadcast daily on-air reminders to help everyone switch to other ways of listening.

Why the LW service is closing

The company that owns and operates the LW broadcast equipment has confirmed that the system is reaching the end of its life. As LW is an older broadcasting technology, recent years have seen a decline in listener numbers, with the majority now opting for FM and DAB digital platforms. Given these factors, investing in upgrading the LW equipment is not considered a cost-effective solution for licence fee-funded services. You can verify the services available at your location by visiting our transmitter checker.

Supporting listeners through the change

To facilitate this transition away from LW and ensure it is as smooth as possible, we will be producing comprehensive guidance on alternative ways to listen through our website and helpline, outlining alternative methods for accessing BBC Radio 4 content. Visit our new factsheet for advice on how to keep listening, How to Continue Listening to Radio 4 after the Closure of LW.

Information for users of RTS electricity meters

Some older electricity meters use a system called the Radio Teleswitching Service (RTS) that is carried within the LW signal. This service is run by the energy industry, not the BBC. If you need advice about replacing or upgrading an RTS meter, please contact your energy supplier or the relevant energy regulator. The BBC does not manage or control the RTS system.

This information is also accessible through a recorded telephone message at 0203 977 1480.