The Amateur's Code, written by Paul M. Segal (W9EEA) in 1928, has been printed in many American Radio Relay League (ARRL) publications over the years. This modified extraction (in bold) is from the 2005 Wireless Institute of Australia Callbook of All Australian Amateur Callsigns. Although its origins are American, the Code is worth considering as a general amateur operating code of conduct.
1. The Amateur is Considerate ... - He never knowingly uses the air in such a way as to lessen the pleasure of others.

Amateurs' interests, and their individual ability to enjoy them, cover a wide range. We are not all interested in the same things. We don't all drive the same cars yet we have equal rights to use the road. The considerate amateur respects the rights of others whose interests may differ to enjoy the hobby relative to their interests without putting them down or otherwise denigrating them or their activities.

2. The Amateur is Loyal ... - He offers his loyalty, encouragement and support to his fellow radio amateurs, his local club and to the Wireless Institute of Australia, through which Amateur Radio is represented.

The loyal amateur actively supports his local club and fellow amateurs and assists them in achieving their aims.

3. The Amateur is Progressive ... - He keeps his station abreast of science. It is well-built and efficient. His operating practice is above reproach.

It is getting harder and harder to keep abreast of science. However, we can all do our best to ensure that our operating practices are above reproach. These days, readily available scanning receivers mean that people from all walks of life are listening. Is your on-air conduct, and comments, a positive advertisement for amateur radio and likely to attract them or negative and likely to turn them away? Think about it!

4. The Amateur is Friendly ... - Slow and patient sending when requested, friendly advice and counsel to the beginner, kindly assistance, cooperation and consideration for the interests of others; these are the marks of the amateur spirit.

A friendly nature doesn't allow him to publicly admonish those who may, at times, appear other than perfect or, appear ignorant of what he might see as general practices or courtesies, or don't share his views.

5. The Amateur is Balanced ... - Radio is his hobby. He never allows it to interfere with any of the duties he owes to his home, his job, his school or his community.

It is only a hobby - and a good one at that. Although they may encroach at times, other things can, and should be, more important.

6. The Amateur is Patriotic ... - His knowledge and his station are always ready for the service of his country and his community.

The patriotic amateur is always proud to offer his equipment to assist those who need it. It is the public spirited thing to do.
Created 2005 by Kevin Crockett. Comments and suggestions may be e-mailed to