CASA and Home Affairs are seeking industry input into two separate drone security and safe-operation proposals.
CASA’s consultation is seeking feedback on a draft policy regarding the operation of drones over or near people.
According to the Authority, the proposed policy aims to:
- reduce burden for lower-risk drone operations;
- focus effort on higher-risk operations;
- maintain strong safety outcomes for people on the ground;
- better match rules to risk;
- give clear guidance on when approvals are needed; and
- improve clarity and consistency.
CASA wants to hear opinions from drone operators concerning: when drones of 250 grams or less can operate over or near people without approval; operations with barriers where separation reduces risk; and an updated approval framework for approvals for drone operations over or near people.
Feedback is due by 20 May and can be made via the consultation web page. Interested parties should first read the policy proposal document listed on the consultation page.
Balancing act
The federal Department of Home Affairs, meanwhile, has opened a consultation on drone security risks, as outlined in the Drone Security Public Consultation Paper 2026.
According to the Department, the paper “explains how the Australian Government proposes a range of potential measures to improve drone security outcomes, while supporting people and businesses to use drones in safe and helpful ways”.
It also suggests a set of guiding principles that aim to:
- focus on higher‑risk places and activities, such as critical infrastructure and large public events;
- be flexible, so that the rules will still work as technology changes over time;
- cover drones that operate in the air, on land and at sea; and
- balance safety and innovation, so that responsible users are not unfairly restricted.
Feedback is due by 25 May can be made via the consultation web page. Those interested in making a submission should first read the consultation paper linked to above.
