Drone Regulations FAQ: Australia

Drone operations in Australia are governed by the Civil Aviation Act 1988 and the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998 (CASR) Part 101. CASR Part 101 specifically addresses unmanned aircraft and rockets, establishing the regulatory framework for remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) operations across recreational and commercial use.

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) is the governing body responsible for administering these regulations, issuing licences, and enforcing compliance.

Source: Civil Aviation Act 1988; CASR 1998 Part 101

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) is Australia's national aviation safety regulator, established under the Civil Aviation Act 1988. CASA is responsible for:

• Setting and enforcing safety standards for all drone operations
• Issuing Remote Pilot Licences (RePL) and Remote Operator Certificates (ReOC)
• Approving area approvals for operations in controlled airspace
• Investigating safety incidents and enforcing penalties
• Publishing advisory circulars and guidance material for drone operators

CASA also provides the CASA drone safety app, which helps operators check airspace restrictions before flying.

Source: Civil Aviation Act 1988 Part II; CASA Advisory Circulars

The excluded RPA (remotely piloted aircraft) category under CASR Part 101 provides simplified rules for drones weighing under 2 kg. This category applies to recreational flying and very low risk commercial use, allowing operation without a licence or registration provided the operator follows all standard operating conditions.

Standard operating conditions include:

• Flying below 120 m (400 ft) AGL
• Maintaining visual line of sight (VLOS) at all times
• Flying only during daylight hours
• Not flying over populated areas
• Keeping at least 30 m from people
• Not flying within 5.5 km of a controlled aerodrome
• Not flying in controlled airspace

Source: CASR 1998 Part 101 Division 101.A; CASA Advisory Circular 101-10

Yes. Australia distinguishes between recreational and commercial drone operations under CASR Part 101.

• Recreational operators flying drones under 2 kg can operate under the excluded RPA category without any licence or registration, provided they follow the standard operating conditions.
• Commercial operators using drones under 2 kg may also use the excluded category for very low risk commercial work, subject to the same standard operating conditions.
• Commercial operators using drones 2 kg or heavier, or operating outside the standard conditions, must hold a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) and operate under a Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC) issued by CASA.

Registration with CASA is required for drones between 250 g and 25 kg used for commercial purposes outside the excluded category.

Source: CASR 1998 Part 101 Divisions 101.A, 101.F, 101.G

Under CASR Part 101, drone registration with CASA has been required since January 2021 for drones weighing between 250 g and 25 kg that are used for commercial purposes outside the excluded RPA category.

Registration is not required for:

• Drones under 250 g
• Drones used purely for recreation under the excluded category
• Drones under 2 kg used commercially under the excluded category standard operating conditions

Operators must register through the CASA online portal and display their registration number on the aircraft.

Source: CASR 1998 Part 101 Division 101.B; Civil Aviation Legislation Amendment (Remotely Piloted Aircraft and Model Aircraft) Regulations 2020

A Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) is issued by CASA under CASR Part 101 Division 101.F and is required for pilots who:

• Fly drones 2 kg or heavier for commercial purposes
• Fly any drone commercially outside the standard operating conditions of the excluded RPA category

To obtain a RePL, applicants must:

• Be at least 16 years old
• Pass an aviation English language assessment
• Complete training with a CASA-approved training provider
• Pass both theory and practical examinations
• Hold an Aviation Reference Number (ARN)

The RePL may include category-specific endorsements for different drone weight classes and types of operation.

Source: CASR 1998 Part 101 Division 101.F; CASA Form 101-04

A Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC) is issued by CASA under CASR Part 101 Division 101.G to organisations conducting commercial drone operations. A ReOC is required when:

• Operating drones 2 kg or heavier for commercial purposes
• Operating any drone commercially outside the excluded RPA category standard operating conditions

To obtain a ReOC, the applicant organisation must:

• Demonstrate a safety management system
• Provide an operations manual detailing procedures
• Employ pilots holding valid RePL licences
• Maintain appropriate maintenance procedures for the aircraft

The ReOC specifies the types of operations and aircraft approved for the certificate holder. It is the organisation's certificate, while the RePL is the individual pilot's licence.

Source: CASR 1998 Part 101 Division 101.G; CASA Advisory Circular 101-01

An accredited operator is an alternative pathway under CASA's regulatory framework for certain commercial drone operations. Accreditation is required for operators using drones 2 kg or heavier commercially, or for any commercial operation that does not meet the excluded RPA category standard operating conditions.

The accreditation pathway is designed for operators who need to fly outside the excluded category but may not require a full ReOC. Accredited operators must:

• Hold appropriate qualifications
• Demonstrate competency in safe drone operations
• Follow CASA-approved procedures
• Register their drones with CASA (for drones 250 g to 25 kg)

For operators needing to conduct more complex or higher-risk commercial operations, the full ReOC + RePL pathway remains the standard requirement.

Source: CASR 1998 Part 101; CASA Advisory Circular 101-10

An Aviation Reference Number (ARN) is a unique identifier required by CASA for anyone applying for a RePL, ReOC, or drone registration. To obtain an ARN:

• Visit the CASA online portal at myCASA
• Create an account and complete the application form
• Provide proof of identity (passport, driver's licence, or equivalent)
• There is no fee for obtaining an ARN

The ARN is used across all CASA licensing and registration systems and remains with you permanently. You will need it before enrolling in any CASA-approved RePL training course.

Source: Civil Aviation Act 1988 Section 3; CASA online portal procedures

The age requirements for drone operations in Australia vary depending on the type of flying:

• Recreational flying under the excluded RPA category: there is no specific minimum age set by CASA, but operators must be able to understand and comply with all standard operating conditions
• Remote Pilot Licence (RePL): applicants must be at least 16 years old to apply under CASR Part 101 Division 101.F

CASA recommends that children flying drones recreationally should be supervised by a responsible adult who understands the standard operating conditions. The supervising adult is responsible for ensuring compliance with all regulations.

Source: CASR 1998 Part 101 Division 101.F; CASA guidance material

The maximum permitted altitude for drone operations in Australia is 120 metres (400 feet) above ground level (AGL), as specified under CASR Part 101 standard operating conditions.

This limit applies to:

• All excluded RPA category operations (recreational and low-risk commercial)
• Most ReOC operations unless specific approval is granted by CASA

Operations above 120 m AGL require specific CASA approval and may be granted to ReOC holders on a case-by-case basis with appropriate risk assessments and safety documentation.

Source: CASR 1998 Part 101; CASA standard operating conditions

Under CASR Part 101 and the Airspace Act 2007, drones must not be flown in the following areas without specific CASA approval:

• Within 5.5 km of a controlled aerodrome (tower-controlled airport)
• In controlled airspace (Class A, B, C, D, or E)
• Restricted areas (designated by the Department of Defence or other authorities)
• Prohibited areas (permanently restricted zones)
• Near emergency operations (bushfires, search and rescue, accidents)
• Within 3 nautical miles of a non-controlled aerodrome unless specific conditions are met

CASA recommends using the CASA drone safety app (OpenSky) to check airspace restrictions before every flight. The app shows controlled airspace, aerodromes, restricted areas, and other no-fly zones in real time.

Source: CASR 1998 Part 101; Airspace Act 2007; CASA Advisory Circular 101-10

Night flying rules depend on the category of operation:

• Excluded RPA category: night flying is not permitted. The standard operating conditions require flying only during daylight hours (between official sunrise and sunset).
• ReOC holders: may apply for specific CASA approval to conduct night operations. This requires demonstrating appropriate risk mitigation including lighting, crew qualifications, and operational procedures.

Night operations under a ReOC typically require:

• Anti-collision lighting on the drone visible from at least 3 nautical miles
• Additional crew members for visual observation
• Specific night operations procedures in the operations manual
• Documented risk assessment

Source: CASR 1998 Part 101 standard operating conditions; CASA Advisory Circular 101-01

Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) is a fundamental requirement under CASR Part 101 for all drone operations in Australia. VLOS means the pilot must be able to see the drone with unaided vision (excluding corrective lenses) at all times during flight.

Key VLOS requirements:

• The pilot must maintain continuous visual contact with the drone to monitor its flight path and avoid collisions
• First-person view (FPV) goggles or monitors alone do not satisfy the VLOS requirement
• FPV flying is permitted only if a second person maintains VLOS and can take immediate control
• Flying Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) requires specific CASA approval, available only to ReOC holders with documented safety cases

Source: CASR 1998 Part 101; CASA standard operating conditions

Under the excluded RPA category standard operating conditions in CASR Part 101, drones must be kept at least 30 metres from people who are not directly associated with the operation.

Additional restrictions include:

• Do not fly over populated areas (beaches, parks with crowds, sporting events, outdoor gatherings)
• Do not fly over or near areas affecting public safety
• ReOC holders may apply for approvals to fly closer to people, subject to comprehensive risk assessments and safety mitigation measures

The 30 m rule is a minimum standard. CASA recommends maintaining greater separation distances where practical, particularly with larger or heavier drones.

Source: CASR 1998 Part 101 standard operating conditions

Flying drones near airports is heavily restricted under CASR Part 101:

• Controlled aerodromes (tower-controlled): no drone operations within 5.5 km without CASA approval
• Non-controlled aerodromes: specific rules apply within 3 nautical miles, including altitude restrictions and communication requirements

ReOC holders may apply for area approvals to operate in controlled airspace or near aerodromes. Area approvals are issued by CASA and specify:

• The geographic boundaries of the approved area
• Maximum altitudes
• Communication requirements with air traffic control
• Any special conditions or limitations

Use the CASA drone safety app to identify aerodrome locations and controlled airspace boundaries before planning any flight.

Source: CASR 1998 Part 101; Airspace Regulations 2007; CASA area approval procedures

Penalties for drone regulation violations under the Civil Aviation Act 1988 and CASR Part 101 are significant:

• Individuals: fines up to AUD 15,550 (50 penalty units) for breaches of standard operating conditions
• Corporations: fines are typically five times the individual penalty amount
• Criminal penalties: under Section 29 of the Civil Aviation Act 1988, endangering the safety of an aircraft can result in imprisonment of up to 2 years or significant fines, or both

CASA may also issue:

• Infringement notices for minor breaches
• Suspension or cancellation of RePL or ReOC for serious or repeated violations
• Direction notices requiring specific corrective actions

Source: Civil Aviation Act 1988 Section 29; CASR 1998 Part 101; Crimes (Aviation) Act 1991

Yes. Under the Civil Aviation Act 1988, CASA and authorised officers have enforcement powers that may include:

• Seizure of the drone as evidence in the investigation of serious breaches
• Issuing directions to cease operations immediately
• Suspension or cancellation of any associated RePL or ReOC

In cases involving endangerment of aircraft safety under Section 29 of the Civil Aviation Act 1988, the Australian Federal Police may also become involved, and the drone may be seized as part of a criminal investigation.

CASA takes a risk-based approach to enforcement, prioritising cases that pose the greatest safety risk to manned aviation and people on the ground.

Source: Civil Aviation Act 1988 Sections 28, 29, 30; CASA Enforcement Manual

CASA employs multiple methods to monitor drone compliance under the Civil Aviation Act 1988 and CASR Part 101:

• Public reports: CASA encourages the public and other pilots to report unsafe drone operations via its online reporting system
• Air traffic control: ATC facilities report drone sightings in controlled airspace
• Pilot reports (AIREP): manned aircraft pilots report drone near-misses
• CASA surveillance officers: conduct audits and inspections of ReOC holders
• Coordination with police: state and federal police assist with enforcement and evidence gathering

Near-miss incidents near airports are treated with the highest priority. CASA publishes quarterly drone safety reports and near-miss statistics to promote awareness.

Source: Civil Aviation Act 1988 Part III; CASA surveillance and enforcement procedures

Commercial drone operation requirements in Australia depend on the weight of the drone and type of operation under CASR Part 101:

• Under 2 kg (excluded category): no licence or registration needed if all standard operating conditions are met. Suitable for very low risk commercial work such as basic photography.
• 2 kg or heavier, or outside standard conditions: the pilot must hold a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) and operate under a Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC) issued by CASA.
• 250 g to 25 kg (outside excluded category): drone registration with CASA is required.

All commercial operators should also:

• Carry appropriate aviation liability insurance (strongly recommended by CASA though not legally mandatory)
• Maintain flight logs and maintenance records
• Follow manufacturer guidelines for the aircraft

Source: CASR 1998 Part 101 Divisions 101.A, 101.F, 101.G

Drone insurance is not legally mandatory in Australia under current regulations. However, CASA strongly recommends that all commercial operators carry appropriate aviation liability insurance.

Key considerations:

• Many clients and contracting organisations require proof of insurance as a condition of engagement
• Standard public liability policies typically exclude aviation activities, so specific drone/aviation insurance is needed
• Coverage typically includes third-party liability for property damage and personal injury
• Some policies also cover hull damage (damage to the drone itself)
• Premiums vary based on drone type, operations, and coverage limits, typically ranging from AUD 500 to AUD 2,000+ per year for commercial operators

Operating without insurance exposes the operator to significant personal financial liability in the event of an accident.

Source: CASA Advisory Circular 101-01; industry best practice guidelines

Area approvals are authorisations issued by CASA that permit ReOC holders to conduct drone operations in areas that would otherwise be restricted, such as:

• Controlled airspace (Class C, D, or E)
• Within 5.5 km of controlled aerodromes
• In restricted areas (with landowner/authority permission)

To obtain an area approval, ReOC holders must:

• Submit an application to CASA with detailed operational information
• Provide a comprehensive risk assessment
• Demonstrate appropriate communication procedures with air traffic control
• Specify maximum altitudes, geographic boundaries, and operational times
• Show evidence of pilot competency relevant to the proposed operations

Area approvals are typically granted for a defined period and may include specific conditions such as mandatory ATC coordination before each flight.

Source: CASR 1998 Part 101; CASA area approval application process

It depends on the drone weight and operating conditions under CASR Part 101:

• Yes, without a licence: if you use a drone under 2 kg and comply with all excluded RPA category standard operating conditions, including flying below 120 m (400 ft) AGL, maintaining VLOS, keeping 30 m from people, staying outside 5.5 km of controlled aerodromes, flying in daylight only, and not over populated areas.
• No, a licence is required: if you use a drone 2 kg or heavier, or if the property is in a location where you cannot meet the standard operating conditions (e.g., near a controlled aerodrome or in a populated area). In this case, you need a RePL and must operate under a ReOC.

Many real estate properties in urban areas fall within controlled airspace or populated areas, which may make the excluded category conditions difficult to meet in practice.

Source: CASR 1998 Part 101 Division 101.A; CASA guidance for commercial operators

Before your first drone flight in Australia, complete these essential steps to comply with CASR Part 101:

• Know the rules: familiarise yourself with the standard operating conditions for the excluded RPA category — below 120 m (400 ft) AGL, VLOS, daylight only, 30 m from people, not over populated areas, and at least 5.5 km from controlled aerodromes
• Download the CASA drone safety app: check airspace restrictions for your intended flying location
• Read the manufacturer's manual: understand your drone's capabilities and limitations
• Check the weather: avoid flying in strong winds, rain, or low visibility conditions
• Inspect your drone: perform a pre-flight check of batteries, propellers, and firmware
• Choose a safe location: select an open area away from people, buildings, roads, and airports
• Register if required: drones 250 g to 25 kg used commercially outside the excluded category must be registered with CASA

Source: CASR 1998 Part 101; CASA 'Know your drone' guidance material

The following official resources provide authoritative information on Australian drone regulations:

• CASA website (casa.gov.au): the primary source for all drone regulations, advisory circulars, application forms, and guidance material
• CASA drone safety app (OpenSky): free mobile app for checking airspace restrictions and no-fly zones in real time
• Federal Register of Legislation (legislation.gov.au): access the full text of the Civil Aviation Act 1988, CASR 1998 Part 101, and the Airspace Act 2007
• CASA Advisory Circulars: AC 101-01 (unmanned aircraft operations) and AC 101-10 (excluded RPA) provide detailed compliance guidance
• CASA 'Know your drone' educational portal: plain-language explanations of the rules for recreational and commercial operators
• CASA-approved training providers: listed on the CASA website for RePL training courses

Source: CASA official resources; Civil Aviation Act 1988; CASR 1998 Part 101