Using the RCM in Australia

Comtest Group
Monday, 01 March, 2021


Using the RCM in Australia

Most manufacturers understand the use of the CE mark signifies the product meets all the applicable European directives. Australia and New Zealand are not part of the EU and therefore cannot legislate the use of these directives.

Not even the UK will be able to use the CE mark for much longer — UKCA will be the new mark required in the UK, and came into effect earlier this year.

Laws have been created in Australia and New Zealand to ensure the electrical products are compliant and bear the correct marks.

There are different regulatory schemes that electrical products have to comply with:

EESS (Australia and New Zealand)

Under EESS, certain kinds of equipment require an RCM. Those that do not require the RCM still must meet Australian and New Zealand electrical safety standards.

ACMA (Australia only)

Under the ACMA, the RCM indicates the product meets the applicable requirements for:

  1. Telecommunications
  2. Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)
  3. Radiocommunication
  4. Electromagnetic Radiation (EMR) or Human Exposure

What about New Zealand? The RSM

Products to be distributed in New Zealand are subject to the RSM scheme.

This means the RCM is used to indicate a product meets EMC standards or, in some cases, the NZ Radiocommunications standard.

The RNZ mark must be used where the applicable NZ radio standard is not harmonised with the ACMA standard.

New Zealand’s telecommunications requirements are controlled by a permit system by carriers and further requirements by the NZ Ministry of Health.

Whichever scheme your product falls under, you are required to maintain records of compliance.

Hefty penalties apply for suppliers who:

  • distribute products that do not comply with the applicable regulatory schemes
  • use incorrect markings, ie, using a CE mark
  • fail to keep proper records

To summarise, the RCM is used under the ACMA and EESS, but in some cases the RSM.

What suppliers can do

We understand this is a complex process for retailers and suppliers, which is why we have provided a few options:

1. Compliance Folder Management

Comtest Group can compile your compliance documentation for you, ensuring you have the correct test reports or certification.

We can also act as an Australian representative, registering you as a supplier if necessary and liaising with authorities.

This eliminates the hassle and potential repercussions of having the wrong documentation.

2. Testing

You don’t have to know what regulatory schemes or exact standards you are testing for. Upon consultation, we can determine the standards the product needs for Australia and NZ, then arrange relevant testing.

This saves time arranging each individual electrical test.

You’ll also receive upfront quotes and we will only test what you need.

3. Virtual Compliance Manager

This is our most comprehensive option.

We start at the very beginning of a product’s life cycle, where we review the design of your product to avoid unnecessary production costs.

As a cooperation partner of TÜV SÜD, we arrange your testing and certification through our network.

Then Comtest Group handles your ongoing compliance, investigating product faults, liaising with authorities, and updating your documents if you change your product.

If you have any electrical or telecommunications devices, we’re here to help manage your compliance. Contact us below.

Email: comtest@comtest.com.au
Phone: +613 9645 5933

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