If you’ve spent any time flying drones in Australia — or just talking to people who do — you’ve probably heard a few “facts” that aren’t quite true. Some of them are based on old rules. Others are just plain wrong. The truth is, CASA (Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority) has clear and evolving regulations, but the rumour mill often overshadows reality.
Whether you’re flying for fun, filming for clients, or thinking about becoming a licensed drone operator, it pays to know what’s real and what’s myth. So let’s dive into five of the most common misconceptions about legal drone flying in Australia — and what you should know instead.
Myth 1: “I don’t need to register my drone if I’m just flying for fun.”
This used to be true, but not anymore. Since 2020, CASA requires all drones over 250g to be registered — even if you're flying recreationally. That includes popular models like the DJI Mini 3 Pro (which skirts under the weight) but excludes most larger drones used for content creation or FPV freestyle.
Registration is quick, inexpensive (free for recreational flyers), and tied to your aviation reference number (ARN). If you're flying an unregistered drone that should be registered, you could face fines — even if you're just cruising over a paddock.
Myth 2: “It’s illegal to fly over people — always.”
This is one of the most repeated myths — and one that gets thrown around a lot in forums and Facebook groups. While the standard CASA rules do prohibit flying directly over people, there are official pathways that allow this under certain conditions.
For example, certified commercial operators can apply for an Operations Over or Near People (OONP) exeption to conduct flights over or near people safely. This is especially relevant for filming events, construction sites, or public locations where crowds are unavoidable. The process is complex, but it’s entirely legal — and many production companies rely on this kind of approval for their work.
So while the default answer is “no,” with proper planning and documentation, the real answer is “yes, under the right conditions.”
Myth 3: “If I stay under 120 metres, I can fly anywhere I want.”
This one is dangerously misleading. While 120 metres is the maximum altitude for most drone flights in Australia, it’s just one of several airspace rules. Even at low altitudes, you can’t fly near controlled airspace, airports, helicopter pads, or other restricted areas — including national parks, prisons, and emergency scenes.
For example, if you’re filming near Sydney Harbour, you’ll be inside some of the most restricted airspace in the country. Without proper approvals, even flying at 30 metres could land you in legal trouble. That’s why it’s essential to check apps like CASA’s “Drone Fly” or third-party tools like OpenSky or AirMap before every flight.
Myth 4: “Private property means private rules.”
Another common misconception is that if you’re flying on or from private land — like your backyard or a friend’s farm — you’re exempt from CASA regulations. Not true. CASA's authority covers all Australian airspace, regardless of land ownership. If your drone leaves the ground, it’s part of the national airspace system.
This means even if you have full permission from the landowner, you still need to follow CASA rules: no flying over people, no night flights without authorisation, no flying near restricted zones, etc. The only way to gain more operational flexibility is by getting licensed and operating under an OC with specific authorisations.
Myth 5: “Once you have your RePL, you can do anything.”
The Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) is a great first step if you want to fly drones commercially in Australia. But it’s not a magic ticket to unlimited airspace. To fly for clients, you'll also need to work under an Operator’s Certificate (OC) — either your own or someone else's. On top of that, special operations like flying at night, flying beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), or flying over people each require their own separate approvals.
For example, if you want to legally fly over people at an event or in a public space, you’ll need to submit a risk assessment and apply for an OONP — which is not covered by your RePL alone. This distinction is where many new operators get caught out.
Bonus Myth: “It’s all too hard.”
A lot of hobbyists give up on the idea of commercial work or more advanced flying because they assume the paperwork is impossible. In reality, CASA’s systems are improving every year, and the drone industry in Australia is more supportive and structured than ever before. There are clear steps you can take to become licensed, gain approvals, and fly professionally — you just need the right guidance and a bit of patience.
Companies like Flying Glass regularly assist with complex shoots in controlled areas, applying for OONPs and other authorisations as part of their day-to-day work. If you’re passionate and committed, there’s a path for you too.
Final Thoughts
Understanding Australia’s drone laws might seem overwhelming at first, but once you strip away the myths, it becomes a lot more manageable. If you’re ever unsure about what’s allowed — don’t guess. Take a few minutes to check CASA’s rules, or speak to a certified operator.
The sky isn’t the limit — but it is regulated. Fly smart, fly safe, and you’ll find plenty of opportunity out there, no matter your level of experience.
Comments