10 Essential Rules for Flying Drones in Australia

Here are the top 10 essential rules for flying drones in Australia to keep in mind:

1. Always fly your drone within visual line-of-sight (VLOS). This means that you must be able to see your drone at all times with your own eye (rather than through a device, screen or goggles).
2. Never fly your drone higher than 120 metres (400 feet) above the ground. This is to ensure that your drone does not interfere with other aircraft or pose a safety hazard to people or property on the ground.
3. Do not fly your drone within 5.5 kilometers (3 nautical miles) of a controlled aerodrome. A controlled aerodrome is an airport with an air traffic control tower. If you need to fly your drone within this area, you must obtain permission from the air traffic controller.
4. Be cautious when flying your drone within 5.5 kilometers (3 nautical miles) of a non-controlled aerodrome (or helipad). A non-controlled aerodrome is an airport without an air traffic control tower. When flying in this area, you must give way to aircraft and avoid flying in their approach or departure paths.
5. Do not fly your drone in restricted airspace. Restricted airspace includes national parks, military bases, prisons, and other areas where drone flying is prohibited. You can find a list of restricted airspace areas on the CASA website.
6. Do not fly your drone over people or crowds. This could cause a safety hazard or invade someone’s privacy.
7. Do not fly your drone under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This could impair your judgment and ability to operate the drone safely.
8. Always follow the instructions of air traffic controllers. If an air traffic controller asks you to change your course or altitude, do so immediately.
9. Register your drone with CASA if it weighs more than 250 grams. This will help CASA track drone usage and identify potential safety hazards.
10. Get a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) if you want to fly your drone for commercial purposes. This will require you to pass a theory test and a practical flight test.
    
    Disclaimer
    Please be advised that the drone rules and regulations in Australia are subject to change. It is your responsibility to stay up-to-date on the latest information by regularly checking the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) website. Failure to comply with the current drone rules and regulations can result in fines or even imprisonment.