Unit of competency details

Unit Descriptor 

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

Application of the Unit 

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.

Employability Skills 

This unit contains employability skills.

Pre-requisite Unit /s 

Nil

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a Unit of Competency.

Performance Criteria describe the required performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the Required Skills and Knowledge and/or the Range Statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the Evidence Guide.

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 AND KNOWLEDGE 

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
• occupational health and safety (OH&S) 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 GUIDE 

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 OH&S/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.

Method of assessment 

In a public safety environment assessment is usually conducted via direct observation in a training environment or in the workplace via subject matter supervision and/or mentoring, which is typically recorded in a competency workbook.

Assessment is completed using appropriately qualified assessors who select the most appropriate method of assessment.

Assessment may occur in an operational environment or in an industry-approved simulated work environment. Forms of assessment that are typically used include:

• direct observation
• interviewing the candidate
• journals and workplace documentation
• third party reports from supervisors
• written or oral questions.

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 distribution may include 

DLMS

NAVTIMS

POSEIDON

CMS

MERCURY

BCSS

Communications circuits may include 

Tactical and strategic interfaces

Mobile interfaces

DISCON