Communication with the outside world is desirable and safe. At least one vehicle should carry either an HF radio and be registered with the RFDS, or a satellite telephone. Find out more about hand held satellite phones from Globalstar at www.globalstar.com.au
 
In order to operate an HF radio, you need to obtain an outpost license and call sign from the Australian Communications Authority. Visit them at http://www.aca.gov.au

Codan area an Adelaide based company that manufacture high quality HF radios. Visit them at http://www.codan.com.au
 
The Australian National Four Wheel Drive Radio Network is a volunteer radio network. VKS-737 offer voice call (radio telephone) services, Safety Logging, Road Condition and Weather information Schedules on HF frequencies. For more information, check out their website.
 
It makes sense to have a UHF radio fitted in all vehicles. Not only is it handy to talk between vehicles, but there is an ever increasing range due to the establishment of repeaters in the Outback. There is now repeater access almost all the way from Marree to Marla along the Oodnadatta Track and out to Dalhousie. Etadunna Station on the Birdsville Track also has a repeater (channel 40). A UHF radio is not a complete solution as it will only work between vehicles or in some areas where there is a repeater available. At absolute minimum an eperb emergency beacon is better than nothing. Don't go off road in the outback without the right communications!