State and territory rules

In addition to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's drone safety rules which apply nationally, states and territories also have different rules about drone use. Some rules even vary by local government area or the particular site. It is important to know and understand any state, territory and local council flight requirements and restrictions.

State and territory rules

You should carefully research the local regulations for drone use in the area where you intend to fly a drone before you do so, especially if you intend to operate in a special area, such as a sensitive environmental area or near a national monument, or at a special event, such as a concert or sporting event.

For example, drones are prohibited in Kakadu National Park, near many marine parks, around Parliament House in Canberra, at Sydney Olympic Park, at declared major events in New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia or near correctional facilities.

You should also check the rules regularly, as they may change quickly and without notice.

In some jurisdictions you could be subject to a substantial penalty for breaking a drone use rule. In some cases you must obtain a permit before using the drone in a specific area, such as a national park.

A selection of helpful resources are below.

Local drone rules map

See the first release of the local drone rule map here, featuring information on laws around parks and corrections facilities.

Australian Capital Territory

ACT Government - Use of emerging aviation technologies in the ACT

New South Wales

NSW Government - Drones in parks policies
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service - Drones in parks
Major events in NSW - Major Events Act 2009

Northern Territory

Northern Territory Government - Flying drones in parks
Parks Australia - Flying drones in Uluru-Kata Tjuta and Kakadu National Parks

Queensland

Queensland Government - Queensland Drones Strategy
Queensland Government - Drones in business
Queensland Government - Queensland Parks and Reserves
Major events in Queensland - Major Events Act 2014
Local governments - How councils can use and manage drones
Brisbane City Council - Launching drones from council parks

South Australia

National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia - Drones and aircraft
South Australia's Department of Environment and Water National Parks Guidance - Know before you go
City of Adelaide - Flying a model aircraft or drone
Major events in South Australia - Major Events Act 2013

Tasmania

Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service - Drones in parks
TasPorts - Drone flight request

Victoria

Parks Victoria - RPA and drone filming and photography permit application guidelines
Victorian Government - School drone use guidance
Victorian Government - Flying drones near correctional and youth justice facilities
City of Melbourne - RPA and drone filming guidelines

Western Australia

Western Australia Parks and Wildlife Service - Drones in parks
City of South Perth - Flying of drones
City of Sterling - Motorised model Aeroplanes Policy
City of Canning - Flying of drones
City of Cockburn - Drone use
City of Belmont - Drone use
City of Fremantle - Flying of drones

Important note

Information on this website should not be considered a complete guide to the use of new aviation technologies in Australia. It is your responsibility to ensure you are following the rules that apply to your particular place or situation.