Australian Drone Laws

Stay up-to-date with Australian drone laws and regulations. Learn how to fly legally and safely with expert insights and the latest CASA guidelines.

Australia’s drone laws are among the most comprehensive in the world, ensuring both the safety of the public and the responsible use of airspace. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) oversees these regulations, and they apply to both recreational and commercial drone pilots. Whether you’re flying for fun or for business, it’s crucial to understand your legal obligations under Australian law.

Recreational vs. Commercial Flying

For recreational pilots, you must follow basic safety rules, such as keeping your drone within line of sight and not flying higher than 120 metres. You also need to avoid flying within 5.5 kilometres of controlled airports and never fly over people or populous areas such as beaches or sports events.

For commercial operators, the rules are stricter, and you are required to have a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) and possibly an Operator’s Certificate (REOC) depending on your operations. Commercial flights often involve greater responsibility, including risk management and flight planning, and the penalties for non-compliance can be severe, including fines and legal repercussions.

Recent Changes in Drone Laws

Over time, CASA has made several updates to drone laws in response to technological advancements and the growing number of drones in Australian skies. It’s important to stay current with these regulations, as they frequently change. For example, CASA introduced the mandatory registration of drones weighing more than 250 grams for both commercial and recreational use. Additionally, all operators are required to obtain an Aviation Reference Number (ARN) as part of their registration process.

What Happens If You Violate Drone Laws?

Failure to comply with Australian drone laws can result in fines and legal action. CASA has the authority to impose penalties for dangerous or illegal drone activity, and with the increasing use of technology such as drone detection systems, it’s easier than ever for authorities to identify non-compliant pilots.

At Flying Glass, we make sure that you’re not just flying with creativity but also with responsibility. Our drone training courses ensure you’re fully equipped with the knowledge to fly legally, minimising risks while maximising opportunities.