A Personal Locator Beacon is a small, handheld distress device that transmits your GPS coordinates to emergency services when activated. It works via the global Cospas-Sarsat satellite system and requires no mobile coverage, no subscription, and no ongoing cost beyond registration.
For anyone heading into remote Australian terrain, a PLB is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment you can carry. This guide explains what a PLB is, how it differs from other beacon types, and what you need to know before buying and registering one.
The Three Types of Distress Beacons
There are three categories of 406MHz distress beacon. They are often confused, but they serve distinct purposes.
PLB – Personal Locator Beacon
PLBs are the correct beacon type for bushwalking and hiking. They are small, lightweight, and designed for personal use on land. When activated, they transmit your location to the Cospas-Sarsat satellite network, which relays the signal to the relevant rescue coordination centre.
If you are a hiker looking for a distress beacon, a PLB is what you need.
EPIRB – Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon
EPIRBs are designed for marine use. They are built to float upright in water and use the water surface as a reflector to improve satellite signal. The ballast required for this makes them heavier and bulkier than PLBs. They are not suitable for bushwalking and should not be purchased for that purpose.
EPIRBs and PLBs are frequently confused. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) specifically requests that the correct terminology be used. If it’s for bushwalking, it’s a PLB.
ELT – Emergency Locator Transmitter
ELTs are aviation devices, typically fixed units installed in aircraft that activate automatically on impact. They are not designed for personal use and are not relevant to hikers.
Buying a PLB in Australia
All 406MHz PLBs must be registered with AMSA. Registration is free and can be completed at beacons.amsa.gov.au.
Some internationally purchased beacons are not compatible with the Australian system. The simplest way to avoid this is to purchase from a reputable Australian retailer. If buying from overseas, confirm the unit is compatible with the Australian system before purchasing.
Accidental Activation
If your PLB is accidentally activated, switch it off immediately and contact AMSA on 1800 641 792. There is no penalty for accidental activation, but notifying AMSA promptly prevents an unnecessary search and rescue response being initiated.
Using an Australian PLB Overseas
The Cospas-Sarsat system is global. An Australian PLB can be detected anywhere on Earth if deployed correctly. However, there are important considerations before travelling with one.
Carrying or activating a PLB on land is illegal in some countries. Before travelling, check the regulations for your destination via the Cospas-Sarsat SPOC directory or the National Regulations for PLBs.
If you activate your beacon overseas, the rescue coordination centre of the country where the signal is detected will manage the response, not Australia. AMSA will provide registration details and support information but does not coordinate the rescue. Response quality varies significantly by country and is affected by available resources, terrain, and weather conditions at the time.
Check with your airline before travelling as requirements for carrying distress beacons vary between carriers and airports.
Using an International PLB in Australia
A PLB purchased overseas can be activated in Australia and Australia will coordinate the search and rescue response. The device needs to be coded and registered to your country of residence. If you are relocating to Australia permanently, re-register the beacon with AMSA.
A Note on Reliability
A PLB is a last-resort device. Activating one sets a significant rescue operation in motion. It does not replace preparation, navigation skills, or sound decision-making on the trail — but it provides a critical safety net when everything else has failed.
Keep your registration current, check the battery expiry date before major trips, and ensure your emergency contacts know you’re carrying one. For guidance on battery replacement, see the PLB battery replacement guide. For tips on keeping your beacon in good working order, download the PLB tips guide. For more information visit the AMSA website.
