Drone Rules in Australia

Drone operations in Australia are regulated by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). The remote pilot is responsible for checking the current rules, airspace restrictions and local requirements before every flight.

Recreational drone rules

• Do not fly higher than 120 metres above ground level.
• Keep the drone at least 30 metres from other people and never fly over anyone.
• Keep the drone within visual line of sight, using your own eyes rather than a screen or goggles.
• Fly only one drone at a time.
• Fly only during daylight.
• Do not fly over populous areas such as crowded beaches, parks, events or sporting grounds in use.
• Do not create a hazard to aircraft, people or property.
• Do not fly over or near emergency operations without approval.
• Respect other people’s privacy.

Airports and aircraft

Rules near airports and helicopter landing sites depend on the type of aerodrome and the drone’s weight. Always check a CASA-verified drone safety app before take-off. Give way to all crewed aircraft and land as soon as it is safe if one approaches.

Business and work use

If you fly for business or as part of your job, registration and operator accreditation may be required, even for a micro drone. Operations outside the excluded category may require a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL), a Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operator’s Certificate (ReOC) or specific CASA approval.

Rules can change. Check the current CASA drone rules and use a CASA-verified drone safety app before every flight.