The report was highly anticipated. During the 18 month period of
consultation with operators, regulators and businesses, the eSenate
Inquiry committee heard that Australia is at the forefront of
drones. Australia's aviation regulator, the Civil
Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), estimates there
are now more than 50,000 users of recreational drones and well over
1,000 commercial operators in Australia.
It was recognised that the main challenge in establishing an
effective regulatory regime for drones is to foster innovation
while still balancing community concerns in relation to safety,
privacy, security, and social and economic benefits.
The Senate Inquiry report recommendations are likely to lead to
a suite of significant amendments to Australia's current drone
regulations over the next 12 months.
