If the aircraft was not carrying an ELT or PLB then the pilot will be in contravention of the CAO 95.55 exemption.
3.2 Except in the case of a flight that is to take place wholly within a radius of 50 miles from its departure point, a 2-place aeroplane to which this Order applies may be flown only if it carries:
(a) an approved ELT, or an approved portable ELT, as defined in regulation 252A of CAR 1988; or
(b) a personal locator beacon that has been approved by CASA for use with such an aeroplane.
Note Regulation 252A of CAR 1988 does not apply to single-seat aircraft (see subregulation 252A (7) of CAR 198
That can open a whole new can of worms.
Kaz