DEFCO402C
Transmit and receive messages utilising Defence messaging systems

This unit covers the competency required to process, transmit and receive messages utilising Defence messaging systems.

Application

This unit was developed for communications and information systems operators working within Defence.

The processing, transmission, reception and distribution of messages utilising Defence messaging systems are a key component of the communications requirement within Defence and are fundamental requirements for communications and information systems operators.

Typically operators work independently and as part of a team under direct and/or indirect supervision, use discretion and judgement, and take responsibility for the quality of their outputs. All activities are carried out in accordance with relevant organisational policies and procedures.

No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication. In a Defence context, this means that there is no civilian need to hold this unit in order to meet licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements.


Prerequisites

Not applicable.


Elements and Performance Criteria

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Prepare and transmit messages

1.1 Messages are processed in accordance with workplace requirements.

1.2 Messages are transmitted in accordance with specific workplace and Defence procedures.

2. Receive and distribute messages

2.1 Messages are received in accordance with specific workplace and Defence procedures.

2.2 Message distribution is undertaken in accordance with Defence guidelines and workplace requirements.

3. Maintain communication circuits to facilitate the flow of messages

3.1 Communications circuits and services are maintained to an acceptable standard.

3.2 Circuit engineering conforms with Defence procedures and workplace practices.

Required Skills

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit.

Required Skills

configure basic circuits

encourage team members

follow instructions/directives and report information

handle classified material correctly

identify basic equipment faults

operate communications equipment

process messages

provide timely and accurate reports

use a variety of verbal and non-verbal communication techniques

use active listening techniques

use computer keyboard

Required Knowledge

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

techniques for supporting others

work environment layout

Evidence Required

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria, Required Skills and Knowledge, the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Assessment must confirm the ability to:

process, transmit and receive messages utilising Defence messaging systems

correctly prepare communication equipment

correctly configure communication circuit

promptly make reports to appropriate personnel

ensure circuit procedures comply with specific workplace requirements

comply with WHS/radiation hazard policy

correctly handle classified material

comply with emission control policy

maintain security

Consistency in performance

Competency should be demonstrated over time to ensure the individual is assessed across a wide variety of situations within the workplace.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Context of assessment

Competency should be assessed in the workplace or in a simulated workplace environment.

Specific resources for assessment

Access is required to:

Defence communications publications

Defence security publications

specific workplace operating procedures

task specific communications equipment


Range Statement

The Range Statement relates to the Unit of Competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording in the Performance Criteria is detailed below.

Message distributionmay include:

DLMS

NAVTIMS

POSEIDON

CMS

MERCURY

BCSS

Communications circuits may include

Tactical and strategic interfaces

Mobile interfaces

DISCON


Sectors

Not applicable.


Employability Skills

This unit contains employability skills.


Licensing Information

Not applicable.