What channels are reserved for specific uses?
Both AM and UHF CB have a number of channels dedicated for specific use. These channels are reserved by the government body responsible for regulating radiocommunications – the ACMA (Australian Communications and Media Authority).
The following is a list of reserved channels for both systems:
Reserved AM Channels
Channel | Frequency | Purpose | Description |
8 | 27.055 | Highway | Used for calling other CB radio users who are operating their radios on the highway. |
9 | 27.065 | Emergency Calling | Used only for placing emergency calls to other CB radio users. |
11 | 27.085 | General Calling | Used for calling other CB radio users in Australia. Once you have established contact, you must move to another channel as soon as reasonably possible. |
16 | 27.155 | LSB International Calling | Used for calling other international CB radio users. Once you have established contact, you must move to another channel as soon as reasonably possible. |
Reserved FM Channels
Channel | Frequency | Purpose | Description |
5 | 476.520 | Emergency – Repeater Output | Used only for placing emergency calls to other CB radio users. Ensure the “duplex” or “repeater” button is pressed if an emergency repeater is available in your area. |
11 | 476.650 | General Calling | Used for calling other CB radio users in Australia. Once you have established contact, you must move to another channel as soon as reasonably possible. |
22 | 476.950 | Data Only | Reserved for telecommand and telemetry use – voice communications are not allowed. This channel is predominantly used in rural areas for controlling gates, pumps etc. |
23 | 476.975 | Data Only | Reserved for telecommand and telemetry use – voice communications are not allowed. This channel is predominantly used in rural areas for controlling gates, pumps etc. |
35 | 477.275 | Emergency – Repeater Input | Used only for placing emergency calls to other CB radio users. You should never need to use this channel. |
40 | 477.400 | Highway Calling | Used for calling other CB radio users who are operating their radios on the highway. |
61 | N/A | Reserved | Reserved for future use – use of this channel is currently not permitted. |
62 | N/A | Reserved | Reserved for future use – use of this channel is currently not permitted. |
63 | N/A | Reserved | Reserved for future use – use of this channel is currently not permitted. |