Australia Drone Bible v3.0 — MmowW Drone Compliance SSOT

Version: v3.0 (Gold Standard)

Last Verified: 2026-05-01

Author: ジャック君🦅 + ポッポ🦉 品質ゲート

Primary Sources: 20 official URLs — casa.gov.au / legislation.gov.au / atsb.gov.au only

Scope: Australia drone regulations — all 5 compliance flows (F1–F5)

Regulatory Authority: CASA (Civil Aviation Safety Authority)

Legal Basis: Civil Aviation Safety Regulations (CASR) Part 101; Civil Aviation Act 1988

Market Priority: Strong commercial drone market — ~3,100 ReOC holders; 7-year retention = highest record-keeping burden of all MmowW markets

Table of Contents

1. [Regulatory Framework Overview](#chapter-1-regulatory-framework-overview)
2. [F1 — Pilot Registration & Certification](#chapter-2-f1--pilot-registration--certification)
3. [F2 — Aircraft Registration & Remote ID](#chapter-3-f2--aircraft-registration--remote-id)
4. [F3 — Flight Planning & Airspace Authorization](#chapter-4-f3--flight-planning--airspace-authorization)
5. [F4 — Flight Logging & Record Keeping](#chapter-5-f4--flight-logging--record-keeping)
6. [F5 — Insurance & Maintenance](#chapter-6-f5--insurance--maintenance)
7. [Penalties & Enforcement](#chapter-7-penalties--enforcement)
8. [Key Dates & Regulatory Timeline](#chapter-8-key-dates--regulatory-timeline)
9. [Industry-Specific Compliance Guide](#chapter-9-industry-specific-compliance-guide)
10. [🦉🐣🐮 Compliance Dialogue](#chapter-10--compliance-dialogue)
11. [Primary Sources Index](#chapter-11-primary-sources-index)

• [Appendix A — Glossary](#appendix-a--glossary)
• [Appendix B — Quick Reference Card](#appendix-b--quick-reference-card)

Chapter 1. Regulatory Framework Overview

1-1. Governing Body

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) is Australia's sole national aviation safety regulator, established under the Civil Aviation Act 1988 (Cth). CASA administers and enforces the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998 (CASR), with drone-specific rules concentrated in Part 101 — Unmanned Aircraft and Rockets.

Accident and incident investigation is handled by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB), an independent statutory agency operating under the Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003 (Cth). ATSB investigations are safety-focused and separate from CASA enforcement action.

Primary statutory authorities:

• Civil Aviation Act 1988 (Cth): https://www.legislation.gov.au/C2004A03656
• Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998 Part 101: https://www.legislation.gov.au/F1998B00220
• Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003 (Cth): https://www.legislation.gov.au/C2004A01135

1-2. AU-Specific Regulatory Framework — Not UK/EU Three-Category

⚠️ Australia does NOT use the UK/EU Open/Specific/Certified framework. Australia operates its own distinct system based on operational risk, weight, and purpose.

CASR Part 101 reference for category framework:

• CASR Part 101 overview and categories: https://www.casa.gov.au/drones/rules/drone-categories

1-3. Standard Operating Conditions (Applies to ALL Categories)

All drone operations (recreational and commercial) must comply with standard operating conditions under CASR Part 101.055 unless specifically approved otherwise:

CASR Part 101.055 standard conditions reference:

• https://www.casa.gov.au/drones/rules/standard-operating-conditions

1-4. MmowW AU Target Market

MmowW AU targets ReOC holders — businesses holding a Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operator's Certificate. This group:

• Numbers approximately 3,100 active ReOC holders (CASA 2026 data)
• Employs an estimated 43,200+ RePL holders as remote pilots
• Carries the highest record-keeping burden in the MmowW portfolio — 7 years for all operational, maintenance, and training records
• Operates primarily in mining inspection, agricultural survey, infrastructure inspection, emergency services, and construction — all sectors with high compliance risk and client-mandated insurance requirements

Chapter 2. F1 — Pilot Registration & Certification

2-1. Remote Pilot Licence (RePL)

The Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) is the professional licence required for pilots conducting commercial drone operations outside the Excluded Category.

RePL application and information:

• https://www.casa.gov.au/drones/get-your-rpl-or-reoc/remote-pilot-licence

RePL Training Requirements

RePL training must be conducted through a CASA-approved training organisation (previously called "Approved Testing Authority / ATA"). Training includes:

1. Theory component: Air law, meteorology, navigation, human factors, RPAS systems
2. Practical component: Pre-flight checks, flight manoeuvres, emergency procedures
3. Assessment: Written theory exam + practical flight test conducted by examiner

RePL holders must maintain recency — minimum flight hours within the preceding 90 days (specific requirements in CASR Part 101). Failure to maintain recency does not revoke the licence but prevents the pilot from conducting operations.

CASR Part 101 Subpart F full text:

• https://www.legislation.gov.au/F1998B00220

2-2. Operator Accreditation (Excluded Category)

For low-risk commercial operations with drones ≤2 kg under standard operating conditions, pilots do NOT need a RePL. They require:

• CASA Operator Accreditation — completed online via my.casa.gov.au
• Drone must be registered (all commercial drones regardless of weight)
• Must follow all standard operating conditions

This accreditation is lower friction but limits operational scope. MmowW's primary target users (ReOC holders) operate beyond this level.

Operator accreditation portal:

• https://www.casa.gov.au/drones/get-your-rpl-or-reoc/operator-accreditation

2-3. Chief Remote Pilot (CRP)

Every ReOC must designate a Chief Remote Pilot (CRP) — the individual responsible for all safety and compliance within the ReOC business.

The CRP role is a significant compliance obligation unique to Australia's ReOC system. MmowW's CRP dashboard directly supports this obligation.

2-4. F1 Compliance Checklist

[ ] RePL obtained through CASA-accredited training organisation
[ ] RePL subcategory matches drone weight class being operated
[ ] Pilot recency maintained (90-day currency requirement)
[ ] CRP designated on ReOC (for ReOC operations)
[ ] CRP RePL appropriate to scope of operations
[ ] All pilots listed on ReOC with current ARN (Aviation Reference Number)
[ ] Pilot fitness self-declaration current (no known medical disqualification)

Chapter 3. F2 — Aircraft Registration & Remote ID

3-1. Drone Registration Requirements

Under CASR Part 101, drone registration applies to:

Registration is annual. Drones over 500 g incur an AU$40 annual registration levy.

Each registered drone receives:

• A unique CASA registration number displayed on the drone
• Entry in the CASA drone register (not publicly searchable, but accessible to CASA and authorities)

Drone registration portal:

• https://www.casa.gov.au/drones/registration

CASA's my.casa.gov.au registration system:

• https://mycasa.casa.gov.au

3-2. Drone Marking Requirements

Under CASR Part 101:

• Registration number must be displayed on the drone
• Display must be legible without tools (not hidden inside battery compartment)
• For small drones (<250 g recreational): no marking required if below registration threshold
• For commercial operations: marking required on all drones

3-3. Remote ID — Current Status in Australia (2026)

⚠️ Australia has not yet mandated Remote ID broadcast for existing drones. This is a key difference from the US (mandated September 2023) and EU (mandated since 2024).

Current AU Remote ID status as of 2026-05-01:

• CASA is monitoring international developments (FAA, EASA implementations)
• No Remote ID broadcast mandate is currently in force for existing drones
• CASA's UTM (Unmanned Traffic Management) roadmap includes Remote ID as a future component
• New drone models sold in Australia from certain manufacturers may include Remote ID hardware voluntarily
• CASA's strategic roadmap indicates Remote ID requirements are likely to emerge as part of the broader UTM framework

CASA UTM and Remote ID policy:

• https://www.casa.gov.au/drones/remotely-piloted-aircraft/remote-identification

3-4. Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operator's Certificate (ReOC)

The ReOC is the cornerstone credential for commercial drone businesses in Australia — analogous to an Air Operator's Certificate (AOC) for conventional aviation.

ReOC Application Requirements (CASR Part 101.270)

ReOC information and application:

• https://www.casa.gov.au/drones/get-your-rpl-or-reoc/reoc
• https://www.casa.gov.au/drones/remotely-piloted-aircraft-operators-certificate

CASA ReOC Holder Public Search

CASA maintains a publicly accessible ReOC holder search portal. Clients can search for operators by:

• Business name
• Certificate number
• Operation type (aerial photography, survey, inspection, etc.)
• Geographic area

This transparency increases accountability and is a key trust mechanism in the AU market. MmowW's member badge system directly reinforces this existing trust infrastructure.

3-5. F2 Compliance Checklist

[ ] All commercial drones registered at my.casa.gov.au
[ ] Registration number displayed legibly on each drone
[ ] Annual registration levy paid (AU$40 for drones >500 g)
[ ] ReOC held and current (initial 12 months; subsequent renewals)
[ ] All drones listed on ReOC operations documentation
[ ] Operations Manual current and reflects actual drone fleet
[ ] Remote ID hardware checked for compliance with any CASA updates

Chapter 4. F3 — Flight Planning & Airspace Authorization

4-1. Pre-Flight Planning Obligations

Before every flight, ReOC holders must conduct risk assessment consistent with their Operations Manual requirements under CASR Part 101. Key pre-flight obligations:

4-2. Controlled and Restricted Airspace

Australian airspace is classified under the Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) administered by Airservices Australia.

Airspace map and NOTAMs:

• https://www.airservicesaustralia.com/aip/aip.asp
• https://www.notaminfo.com/australiamap

4-3. CASA Drone Safety Apps and Airspace Tools

CASA endorses specific drone safety apps verified for accurate AU airspace data:

• Airspace visualisation: Apps showing Class C/D airport circles (5.5 km radius), R-areas, P-areas, and temporary restrictions
• NOTAM integration: Current NOTAMs affecting planned area
• Local council overlays: Some apps include council-specific restrictions (note: app data does not substitute for direct airspace authority consultation for complex operations)

CASA-verified drone safety app guidance:

• https://www.casa.gov.au/drones/rules/where-can-i-fly

4-4. Operations Over or Near People (OONP) Approvals

Flying within 30 m of uninvolved persons requires OONP (Operations Over or Near People) approval from CASA. This is one of the most common operational approvals required by ReOC holders.

2025 update: CASA simplified OONP administration — ReOC holders with existing OONP approval automatically have permission for populated area operations that were previously separately required. This reduces administrative burden for professional operators.

OONP approval is embedded in the ReOC Operations Manual and requires:

• Risk assessment methodology for populated environments
• Specific crew briefing procedures
• Emergency procedures for failures near people

4-5. Individual Operation Approvals (Case-by-Case CASA Approval)

Operations outside standard conditions and beyond the ReOC's approved scope require individual CASA approval:

CASA approvals and exemptions:

• https://www.casa.gov.au/drones/approvals-exemptions

4-6. State and Territory Variations

⚠️ Australia's federal structure creates significant state/territory-level complexity. CASR governs the airspace; state/territory and local laws govern the land.

4-7. F3 Compliance Checklist

[ ] Airspace class confirmed via current AIP and NOTAM check
[ ] CASA-verified drone safety app consulted pre-flight
[ ] Weather assessment completed (wind, visibility, precipitation)
[ ] 5.5 km airport clearance verified (for drones >250 g)
[ ] OONP approval current if operating within 30 m of people
[ ] State/territory land access permissions obtained where required
[ ] Restricted/prohibited area check completed
[ ] Operational release completed per Operations Manual
[ ] Individual CASA approval obtained if outside standard conditions

Chapter 5. F4 — Flight Logging & Record Keeping

5-1. The 7-Year Rule — Australia's Strictest Requirement

⚠️ Australia mandates the LONGEST record retention period of all 10 MmowW markets.

Retention period comparison:

CASR Part 101 record-keeping requirements:

• https://www.casa.gov.au/drones/remotely-piloted-aircraft-operators-certificate/record-keeping

5-2. Required Record Fields for Each Flight

For each flight or operation, ReOC holders must record under CASR Part 101.395:

Operational Records:

• Date, start time, end time, total duration
• Operation location (take-off and landing coordinates or description)
• Name and ARN of each remote pilot involved
• RPA type (make/model), serial number, registration number
• Mode of operation (VLOS / EVLOS / BVLOS)
• Operational release number (if applicable)
• Maximum altitude reached
• Whether RPA was serviceable at end of operation
• Any CASA instrument or approval reference number in effect
• Any safety occurrence, incident, or accident during operation
• Environmental conditions (approximate wind, visibility, weather)

Maintenance Records (drones >2 kg):

• All maintenance performed (scheduled and unscheduled)
• Parts replaced (part number, batch number, source)
• Person performing maintenance (name, qualification)
• Date and flight hours at time of maintenance
• Next scheduled maintenance date/hours
• Any defects found and rectification actions

Training Records:

• Pilot name and ARN
• Training type and content
• Dates of training
• Assessment results
• Instructor/assessor name and qualification
• Retained for 7 years after pilot ceases to operate under the ReOC

5-3. CASA Oversight and Audit Rights

CASA has broad inspection rights under the Civil Aviation Act 1988:

• CASA inspectors may conduct unannounced inspections of ReOC operations
• Records must be produced to CASA on request — no advance notice required for spot checks
• CASA conducts risk-based surveillance — high-activity ReOC holders, operators with incident history, or those in sensitive environments receive more frequent oversight
• Annual compliance declarations may be required as part of ReOC renewal

Failure to maintain required records or refusing CASA access to records constitutes a serious compliance breach under the Civil Aviation Act 1988.

CASA enforcement framework:

• https://www.casa.gov.au/about-us/newsroom/regulatory-enforcement

5-4. Chief Remote Pilot Record Oversight Obligations

The CRP is responsible for ensuring all records are:

• Completed within 24 hours of each operation (industry best practice; specific timeframes in Operations Manual)
• Stored securely and protected from loss or alteration
• Available for CASA inspection on demand
• Retained for the full 7-year period even if pilots leave the organisation

5-5. Incident and Accident Reporting

Under the Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003 and CASR Part 101:

ATSB Reportable Occurrences (immediate reporting required):

• Death or serious injury caused by or related to drone operation
• Serious damage to property (structural, significant economic loss)
• Near-collision with another aircraft (drone or manned)
• Loss of control resulting in uncontrolled flight

CASA Reportable Occurrences:

• Airspace incursions (entering controlled airspace without clearance)
• Equipment malfunctions during operations
• Any breach of operating conditions

ATSB drone safety reporting:

• https://www.atsb.gov.au/reporting/

CASA safety reporting:

• https://www.casa.gov.au/safety-alerts-and-advice/incident-reporting

5-6. F4 Compliance Checklist

[ ] Flight log completed within 24 hours of each operation
[ ] All required fields populated (date/time/location/pilot/drone/mode)
[ ] Operational release documented pre-flight
[ ] Maintenance records current for all drones >2 kg
[ ] Training records maintained for all pilots (7 years post-departure)
[ ] Records stored securely with access controls
[ ] ATSB report filed for any reportable occurrence (same day)
[ ] CASA report filed for any airspace incursion or condition breach
[ ] Record retention schedule confirmed (7 years minimum)
[ ] CASA audit readiness — all records accessible within 24 hours of request

Chapter 6. F5 — Insurance & Maintenance

6-1. Insurance — The AU Position

⚠️ Unlike UK and EU, Australia has NO blanket mandatory drone insurance requirement under aviation law. However, the practical reality makes insurance effectively mandatory for professional operations.

Comparison:

6-2. Practical Insurance Expectations

For ReOC holders operating commercially in AU:

Mining Sector: Sites typically require AU$20–50 million public liability. Mine operators' insurance requirements are often specified in site access agreements.

Agriculture: Contract arrangements often require minimum AU$5–10 million. Crop spraying operations may have additional specific requirements.

Infrastructure Inspection: Asset owners (utilities, rail, roads) typically mandate AU$10–20 million with specific additional insured endorsements.

Construction: Tier 1 and Tier 2 contractors routinely require AU$20 million minimum.

MmowW presents insurance as "industry standard and client-required" rather than "legally required" — accurately reflecting the AU regulatory position while not understating the practical necessity.

6-3. Maintenance Requirements Under CASR Part 101

Maintenance obligations depend on drone weight:

For drones >2 kg operated under a ReOC, CASR Part 101 requires:

1. Maintenance schedule — documented in the Operations Manual, based on manufacturer recommendations and operational experience
2. Maintenance sign-off — all maintenance recorded with person responsible, date, and description
3. Defect reporting — any identified defects recorded before next flight; grounding if airworthiness is in doubt
4. Component life-tracking — critical components (motors, ESCs, rotors) tracked to service life or hours
5. Battery management — cycle counts, capacity testing, storage procedures documented

Advisory Circular AC 21-57 (Maintenance for RPAS):

• https://www.casa.gov.au/sites/default/files/2023-01/ac21-57.pdf

6-4. Night Operations and Special Approvals

Night operations are not permitted under standard operating conditions. ReOC holders may apply for night operations approval as an amendment to their ReOC scope, requiring:

• Risk assessment specific to night conditions
• Additional lighting on the drone (navigation lights)
• Specific crew procedures and briefing requirements
• Training evidence for night operations

BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight):

CASA is actively developing the BVLOS framework as of 2026:

• Trial BVLOS pathways exist for approved operators under specific conditions
• EVLOS (Extended Visual Line of Sight) using observers being trialled
• Full BVLOS framework expected to follow international developments
• Operators planning BVLOS must apply for individual CASA approval with detailed safety case

CASA BVLOS developments:

• https://www.casa.gov.au/drones/rules/beyond-visual-line-of-sight

6-5. F5 Compliance Checklist

[ ] Insurance coverage reviewed against client contract requirements
[ ] Public liability minimum confirmed (AU$20M recommended)
[ ] Maintenance schedule documented in Operations Manual
[ ] All drones >2 kg on formal maintenance program
[ ] Maintenance records current and complete
[ ] Battery cycle counts and capacity testing documented
[ ] Critical component life-tracking current
[ ] Defect log checked before each operation
[ ] Night operations approval held if night flying is planned
[ ] BVLOS individual approval obtained if applicable

Chapter 7. Penalties & Enforcement

7-1. Civil Aviation Act 1988 Penalty Framework

Penalties for drone compliance violations in Australia are among the highest of all MmowW markets.

Civil Aviation Act 1988 — penalty provisions:

• https://www.legislation.gov.au/C2004A03656

7-2. CASA Enforcement Approach

CASA uses a graduated enforcement model:

1. Education and guidance — for first-time or minor contraventions where no harm occurred
2. Infringement notices — on-the-spot fines for clear breaches
3. Enforceable voluntary undertakings — operator commits to specific remedial actions
4. Suspension/cancellation — ReOC or RePL suspended or cancelled for serious breaches
5. Criminal prosecution — reserved for the most serious violations involving risk to public safety

CASA actively uses aviation safety inspectors in the field to observe and investigate drone operations. The CASA Safety Reporting portal allows the public to report unsafe drone operations.

CASA enforcement and regulatory action:

• https://www.casa.gov.au/about-us/newsroom/regulatory-enforcement

7-3. ATSB Investigation Powers

The ATSB can investigate drone incidents independently of CASA enforcement. Key principles:

• ATSB investigations are safety-focused, not blame-focused
• Statements made to ATSB during investigation are generally not admissible in civil proceedings
• ATSB findings are safety recommendations to CASA, not penalties
• Cooperation with ATSB investigations is a professional obligation

ATSB investigation authority:

• https://www.atsb.gov.au/about-the-atsb/legislation/

Chapter 8. Key Dates & Regulatory Timeline

8-1. Historical Milestones

8-2. Upcoming and Emerging Developments (2026)

CASA regulatory roadmap:

• https://www.casa.gov.au/about-us/news-media/consultation-hub

8-3. Advisory Circulars and Civil Aviation Orders

Chapter 9. Industry-Specific Compliance Guide

9-1. Mining Sector — Australia's Highest-Volume Drone Market

Australia's mining sector is the largest commercial drone market by volume and revenue. Key compliance considerations:

Typical operations:

• Pit volume calculations and stockpile surveys (photogrammetry)
• Equipment inspection (haul trucks, conveyors, mill structures)
• Tailings dam monitoring
• Environmental compliance surveys

Compliance profile:

Unique challenges:

• Mining sites frequently involve restricted areas and require site-specific access approvals from mine operators
• Dust and particulate environments affect drone airworthiness — maintenance records must reflect operational conditions
• High-altitude sites (e.g., Broken Hill, Pilbara) may affect drone performance; operational limitations must be documented
• Remote operations often require EVLOS planning with multiple crew members

MmowW value for mining operators:

MmowW's 7-year automated record retention solves the #1 compliance pain point for mining operators who must demonstrate regulatory compliance to CASA, clients, and insurance underwriters across multi-year contracts.

9-2. Agriculture — Precision Farming and Crop Protection

Australia's agricultural sector uses drones extensively for crop monitoring, precision application, and farm management.

Typical operations:

• Multispectral NDVI crop health surveys
• Livestock monitoring and mustering assistance
• Weed and pest mapping
• Agricultural spraying (expanding rapidly in AU market)

Compliance profile:

AU-specific agricultural context:

• Australia's vast agricultural landmasses mean BVLOS operations are commercially attractive — CASA BVLOS framework is particularly relevant for AU agricultural operators
• Drone spraying is growing rapidly — chemical application requires APVMA permits and state EPA compliance in addition to CASA Part 101 compliance
• NT Indigenous land — large agricultural operations in NT may overlap with Indigenous Land Trust areas requiring separate access permits

MmowW value for agricultural operators:

Automated flight log generation ensures APVMA compliance records (chemical application traceability) are maintained alongside CASA operational records — a dual compliance benefit unique to AU agricultural drone operations.

9-3. Infrastructure Inspection — Utilities, Rail, and Construction

Australia's infrastructure inspection market is the fastest-growing commercial drone segment, driven by aging infrastructure and mandatory inspection regimes.

Typical operations:

• High-voltage powerline and transmission tower inspection
• Gas pipeline corridor surveys
• Bridge and road infrastructure assessment
• Building and facade inspection (CBD and commercial)
• Rail corridor and track inspection
• Wind turbine blade inspection

Compliance profile:

Unique challenges:

• Electromagnetic interference (EMI) near high-voltage infrastructure — documented risk assessment required in Operations Manual
• Confined space operations (bridge undersides, culverts) — beyond standard VLOS; may require individual approval
• Client mandatory requirements — tier 1 asset owners (AusGrid, TransGrid, ARTC, etc.) have their own drone safety management specifications that must be met alongside CASA requirements
• Worker safety integration — WHS plans must integrate drone operations with site construction activities

MmowW value for infrastructure operators:

MmowW's digital evidence management (F👀D-adapted for drone context) enables infrastructure inspection operators to package CASA compliance records with client deliverables — turning regulatory obligation into competitive differentiator.

Chapter 10. 🦉🐣🐮 Compliance Dialogue

A conversation between three MmowW users exploring AU drone compliance. 🦉 = experienced CRP at a mining survey company; 🐣 = new RePL holder starting a drone business; 🐮 = agricultural operator expanding from landholder to commercial operations.

Turn 1

🐣: I just got my RePL last month. Do I need a ReOC to start taking on commercial clients, or can I operate under someone else's?

🦉: Great question to get right from the start. Yes, you need a ReOC to operate commercially under your own business name. A RePL is your personal pilot licence — it proves you can fly safely. But the ReOC is the business certificate — it covers your company's operations, safety systems, and record-keeping obligations. If you're working under someone else's ReOC as a contracted pilot, that's different — you'd be operating under their certificate and their Operations Manual.

🐣: So what does getting a ReOC actually involve?

🦉: You'll need an Operations Manual — this is the big one. It describes every type of operation you plan to conduct, your risk assessment methodology, emergency procedures, how you manage pilots and equipment. CASA reviews this document carefully. You also need to nominate yourself as the Chief Remote Pilot, list all your drones, and demonstrate you have maintenance procedures for any drone over 2 kg. First ReOC is issued for 12 months; after that, you can get 24–36 month renewals if you've operated cleanly.

Turn 2

🐮: I've been flying on my own land as a landholder for three years — up to 25 kg, no problems. But I want to start doing commercial survey work for neighbouring properties. Does that change everything?

🦉: It changes a lot, yes. The landholder exclusion under CASR Part 101 is specifically for your own land and your own use. The moment you're flying for another property owner and receiving payment, you're in commercial territory. You'll need: RePL for yourself, drone registration for all your drones even if they're already registered recreationally, and a ReOC if you're operating as a business.

🐮: What weight class matters? I have drones from 2 kg up to 18 kg.

🦉: RePL subcategories are <7 kg and <25 kg — you'll want the <25 kg endorsement to cover your 18 kg machine. The <7 kg endorsement only covers up to 7 kg. Training is more intensive for the heavier class but it's the same licence, just a different rating.

🐮: And my maintenance records — I've been keeping informal notes for three years. Are those useful?

🦉: They show good practice, but once you're on a ReOC, your maintenance records need to be formal — specific fields, dated, signed. And critically, you need to keep them for 7 years. That's not 7 years from now — CASA expects that your records from the start of ReOC operations are maintained for 7 years from the date of each record. MmowW was built specifically for this 7-year obligation. Spreadsheets work until CASA comes knocking.

Turn 3

🐣: I've heard CASA can do unannounced inspections. How does that actually work in practice?

🦉: CASA aviation safety inspectors can show up at any operation they observe or receive a report about. They'll ask to see your ReOC, your Operations Manual, and your records for recent flights. If you're carrying a tablet with MmowW open, you can pull up the last 30 flights immediately. If you're running a spreadsheet on a laptop that you left in the ute, you're having a bad day.

🐣: What if I don't have everything they ask for on the spot?

🦉: You can provide records within a timeframe if they're not immediately available — but failing to produce them at all is a breach of the Civil Aviation Act 1988. Inspectors aren't looking to ruin good operators; they're looking for systemic non-compliance. But 'I'll email it to you later' is not a great look when the record should exist in real time.

Turn 4

🐮: I want to do some work after dark — thermal imaging of crops for pest detection. Is that manageable?

🦉: Night operations are one of the most commonly requested ReOC scope extensions. It's not a new ReOC — you apply to CASA to amend your existing ReOC to include night operations. You'll need to update your Operations Manual with night-specific procedures: how you brief the crew, what navigation lighting your drone must display, your emergency procedures if you lose visual contact. You also need evidence that your pilots have done night flying training.

🐮: How long does the approval take?

🦉: Typically 4–8 weeks if your application is well prepared and your Operations Manual is already in good shape. CASA has been improving processing times. If you have a good track record as a ReOC holder — no incidents, clean inspection history — the process tends to be smoother.

🐮: And the lights on the drone?

🦉: Your drone must display navigation lights that make it visible and allow observers to determine its orientation. The specific requirements are in your ReOC approval conditions. Most professional drone operators running night operations fit aftermarket lighting systems certified for the purpose.

Turn 5

🐣: What about flying in Canberra? I have a client near Parliament House.

🦉: Canberra is one of the most complex airspace environments in Australia for drone operators. Parliament House and the surrounding diplomatic precincts fall within Prohibited Area P-165. No drone access without specific CASA authorisation — and that authorisation requires coordination with multiple agencies including the Australian Federal Police. Even outside P-165, Canberra Airport (Class D) and RAAF Fairbairn create overlapping control zones. Get your airspace check done thoroughly before you even quote on a Canberra job.

🐣: Is there a planning tool that shows all of this?

🦉: The CASA-verified drone safety apps show the official airspace map. But for complex environments like Canberra, I always cross-reference with the current AIP and check NOTAMs within 24 hours of the flight. Apps are helpful; they're not infallible. CASA's airspace website is the authoritative source.

Turn 6

🐮: My biggest client is a mining company in the Pilbara. They've asked me to inspect tailings dam structures — some of this work is over water. Anything I need to know?

🦉: Operations over water have specific considerations under CASR Part 101. The 30 m rule from people still applies to any vessel operators on the water. More practically, your Operations Manual needs to address the emergency procedures for water operations — flotation devices, crew awareness, reporting of any drone loss in waterways. If the tailings dam contains process water with environmental significance, check with the site's environmental team about any additional regulatory overlay.

🐮: What about flying beyond line of sight to get the full dam perimeter?

🦉: BVLOS is the key constraint here. If the dam perimeter is large enough that you can't maintain VLOS from a single ground position, you have three options: use spotters at intervals (EVLOS), get individual BVLOS approval from CASA for this specific site, or fly it in multiple VLOS legs. BVLOS approval takes 8–16 weeks minimum for a well-prepared application. CASA's BVLOS framework is evolving — worth checking current status before committing to the client timeline.

Turn 7

🐣: I need to understand the insurance situation. My clients keep asking for certificates of currency. Is there a standard minimum?

🦉: There's no legally mandated minimum under AU aviation law — but the market has effectively set one. Most commercial clients require at least AU$10 million public liability. Mining and infrastructure clients typically want AU$20 million. Some tier-1 construction projects specify AU$50 million. You should have an insurance broker who understands commercial drone operations — not all insurers are equal for RPAS coverage.

🐮: What does the policy actually cover?

🦉: Public liability covers third-party property damage and bodily injury. Hull insurance covers your own drones. Professional indemnity is relevant if you're selling deliverables like survey data or inspection reports. Most professional ReOC holders carry all three. The certificate of currency your client wants is specifically the public liability policy — make sure the certificate shows your business name, policy number, coverage amount, and expiry date.

Turn 8

🐣: If one of my drones crashes and damages property, what do I have to report and to whom?

🦉: Two separate reporting streams, and both matter.

First, ATSB — if there was serious injury, death, or significant property damage, this is a reportable occurrence under the Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003. ATSB reports go to atsb.gov.au. ATSB investigations are safety-focused and separate from enforcement.

Second, CASA — any airspace incursion, loss of control, or breach of operating conditions needs to be reported to CASA via their safety reporting portal. CASA may then decide whether enforcement action is warranted — but early self-reporting is viewed more favourably than incidents discovered through third-party complaints.

🐣: Is there a timeframe for reporting?

🦉: Reportable occurrences to ATSB must be reported as soon as practicable — for serious occurrences, that means within hours, not days. CASA safety reports should be filed promptly. Both agencies have online portals. Your insurance broker should also be notified immediately if there's any property damage or injury — delay in notification can affect coverage.

Turn 9

🐮: The CASA ReOC search portal — my potential client mentioned they'd checked my ReOC there before hiring me. What does it show?

🦉: CASA's public ReOC search shows your certificate number, business name, the types of operations you're approved for, and the geographic scope of your approval. It's CASA's transparency mechanism — clients can verify you're legitimate before hiring you. This is actually a strong selling point for professional operators: it puts a floor of credibility on any commercial operator.

🐮: What if a competitor lists operations they're not actually approved for in their marketing?

🦉: That's a compliance issue — operating commercially beyond your ReOC scope is exactly the kind of breach CASA targets. The public search portal lets clients verify what you're actually approved for. If a competitor is claiming capabilities their ReOC doesn't cover, that's a safety and regulatory matter the client can raise with CASA.

Turn 10

🐣: What's the single biggest mistake new commercial operators make in Australia that creates compliance risk?

🦉: Underestimating the Operations Manual. Most new operators treat it as a box-ticking exercise for the ReOC application and then forget about it. But the Operations Manual is a living document — it must reflect your actual operations. If you start doing a new type of work (say, adding night ops, or a new drone model, or operations in a new geographic area that changes your risk profile), your Operations Manual needs to be updated. CASA's right to inspect means they can compare what your manual says against what you're actually doing. Any gap is a compliance issue.

🐣: And the second biggest?

🦉: Record-keeping. Specifically, relying on informal systems — personal notes, WhatsApp messages to yourself, spreadsheets maintained inconsistently. The 7-year requirement is real, and it's not just about having records — it's about having complete records in a retrievable format. MmowW exists precisely because spreadsheets fail at the scale and duration that Australian commercial operators need. When CASA asks for your flight log from 2021, you need to produce it in 24 hours. That's not a system you can build under pressure.

🐣: Last one — what's the best signal that a ReOC business is well run?

🦉: They can answer any CASA question without scrambling. Their CRP knows the current status of every pilot's recency, every drone's maintenance schedule, and every record going back 7 years. That's what MmowW was built to enable.

Chapter 11. Primary Sources Index

All regulatory content in this Bible is traceable to the following 20 official government sources.

Supplementary references (not primary sources — for context only):

• Airservices Australia AIP: https://www.airservicesaustralia.com/aip/aip.asp
• ATSB — About ATSB legislation: https://www.atsb.gov.au/about-the-atsb/legislation/
• CASA regulatory enforcement: https://www.casa.gov.au/about-us/newsroom/regulatory-enforcement
• CASA consultation hub: https://www.casa.gov.au/about-us/news-media/consultation-hub

Appendix A — Glossary

25 key terms for AU drone compliance.

Appendix B — Quick Reference Card

For MmowW AU Users — The Essential Checklist

AM I OPERATING LEGALLY? (Decision Tree)

Are you receiving payment or conducting operations for a business?
    │
    ├── NO → Recreational. Online accreditation + standard conditions.
    │
    └── YES → Commercial.
           │
           ├── Drone ≤2 kg + standard conditions only?
           │       └── Excluded Category: Operator Accreditation + register drone.
           │
           └── Drone >2 kg OR outside standard conditions?
                   └── Licensed (Standard Category):
                       ├── RePL required for pilot
                       ├── ReOC required for business
                       ├── All drones registered
                       └── 7-year records mandatory

THE 7 NUMBERS EVERY AU DRONE OPERATOR MUST KNOW

KEY CONTACTS

RECORD KEEPING ESSENTIALS (Per Flight)

Required minimum fields for every commercial flight log:

1. Date and time (start and finish)
2. Location (takeoff and landing)
3. Pilot name and ARN
4. Drone type, serial, registration number
5. Operation mode (VLOS/EVLOS/BVLOS)
6. Whether serviceable at end of operation
7. Any occurrences or incidents

Retain all records for 7 years from date of operation.

Built with care by MmowW 🐮🦉

Strong, Kind, Beautiful — Flying together 🕊️

MmowW 2026. All regulatory information sourced from CASA official publications as of 2026-05-01. Users should verify current regulations at https://www.casa.gov.au/drones. This document is for compliance guidance purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. MmowW is a compliance management tool, not a certification authority.