Drone Laws and Regulations in Australia
Find out whether you are allowed to fly your drone in Australia and what
rules apply or whether it is prohibited in general. We do not assume any liability.
If you find outdated or wrong information or if you want to submit the drone regulations for countries that are currently not listed, feel free to contact us here.
RECREATIONAL DRONE PILOTS (HOBBYISTS)
Is private drone flying allowed in Australia?
Yes, but you need to apply to the rules listed below.
A special permission is not necessary.
Maximum Height
In controlled airspace 120m / 400ft
Outside controlled airspace without a limit
Maximum Distance
None, but must be kept in line-of-sight of the operator at all times
unless approval for beyond line-of-sight has been given
Maximum Take-Off Weight
None
Competence Statement / License
Not required
Day Times
Day time operations only unless approval has been given
Labelling Requirements
Not required, but recommended
Drone Liability Insurance
Not required, but highly recommended
COMMERCIAL DRONE PILOTS (PROFESSIONALS)
Is commercial drone flying allowed in Australia?
Yes, but you need to apply to the rules listed below, register your drone
and apply for an operators certificate in some cases (see information below)
In controlled airspace 120m / 400ft
Outside controlled airspace without a limit
Maximum Height
Maximum Distance
None, but must be kept in line-of-sight of the operator at all times
unless approval for beyond line-of-sight has been given
Not required, but recommended (ARN number)
Labelling Requirements
Maximum Take-Off Weight
< 2kg / 4.4lbs (see rules below)
> 2kg / 4.4lbs (see rules below)
Day time operations only unless approval has been given
Day Times
Drone Liability Insurance
Not required, but highly recommended
< 2kg / 4.4 lbs = Registration required
> 2kg / 4.4lbs = Operators certificate + RPA required
You must notify CASA five days before your first commercial flight here
Competence Statement / License
Drone Ban Zones
State institutes
Federal authority constructions
Regional authority constructions
Airport control zones (CTR)
Vehicles, Boats, Buildings, People (everyone: min. 30m, ReOC: min. 15m)
Hospitals
Operation sites of police, military, search- and rescue forces
You must always yield right of way to manned aircraft!
FOR DJI DRONES ONLY!
Please note that there are several constant and temporary drone ban zones (known as no-fly-zones) that either won't let your drone take-off at all or that will ask for a permission of yours.
Please click at both graphics to spot all blocked / restricted areas near your desired flying location.
Additional links and important email addresses
CASA Guide to fun flying drones in Australia CASA Guide to commercially flying drones (<2kg) in Australia
Submit your countries rules and laws for flying drones in the categories mentioned above
Facebook group for pilots from all around the globe (English)
Check out more drone laws and regulations.
Click here or at the image to see all listed countries.
Or submit the regulations of your country right here.
READ THE DRONE BLOG!