Application
This unit describes the skills required to process, transmit and receive messages utilising Defence messaging systems.
This unit was developed for communications and information systems operators working within Defence but may be relevant to others who work in this field.
The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures must be consulted and adhered to.
Those undertaking this unit would work independently and as part of a team, under direct and/or indirect supervision within specific communications environments. They would use discretion and judgement, and take responsibility for the quality of their outputs while performing specific tasks in a range of sometimes unpredictable contexts.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENTS | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions section. |
1. Prepare and transmit messages | 1.1 Process messages. 1.2 Transmit messages. |
2. Receive and distribute messages | 2.1 Receive messages. 2.2 Distribute messages. |
3. Maintain communication circuits | 3.1 Maintain communications circuits and services to facilitate the flow of messages. 3.2 Ensure circuit engineering conforms with organisational procedures and workplace practices. |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the candidate must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on at least one occasion.
configuring basic circuits
handling classified material correctly
identifying basic equipment faults
operating communications equipment
processing messages
preparing communication equipment
complying with WHS/radiation hazard policy
complying with emission control policy
maintaining security
Evidence of Knowledge
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the depth of knowledge demonstrated must be appropriate to the job context of the candidate.
basic communications procedures
basic radio propagation
classified material handling procedures
communications ancillary equipment
composition of teams and roles and responsibilities of team members
emission theory and control
information exchange systems terminology and basic operations
message format
work health and safety (WHS) practices
OTAT/OTAR procedures
radiation hazard(RADHAZ) procedures and awareness
satellite communications systems terminology and basic operations
security procedures
task specific equipment configuration/operation
work environment layout
Assessment Conditions
Competency should be assessed in an actual workplace or in a simulated environment, with access to equipment and infrastructure appropriate to the outcome. Competency should be demonstrated over time to ensure the candidate is assessed across a variety of situations.
Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.
Foundation Skills
The foundation skills demands of this unit have been mapped for alignment with the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF). The following tables outline the performance levels indicated for successful attainment of the unit.
ACSF levels indicative of performance:
Further information on ACSF and the foundation skills underpinning this unit can be found in the Foundation Skills Guide on the GSA website.
Competency Field
Communications