New infrastructure planning guidelines released today will support the safe, secure and environmentally-considerate integration of drones and electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicles into communities and broader transport networks.
The drones and emerging Advanced Air Mobility sector will create new jobs, industries and markets, with the capacity to connect our cities and regions using less capital investment than other transport modes.
Drones are expected to save up to $525 million by 2040 for parcel, food and medical deliveries. The demand for drone food deliveries in Australia is estimated to grow up to 65 million trips in 2040, with an average cost per delivery of just $1.49.
These new guidelines will support governments to consider development proposals for drone delivery services, and help drone operators understand their regulatory requirements.
They provide guidance on how aviation regulations apply to drone delivery services, and make recommendations about the infrastructure and land use planning considerations to support delivery operations that use small drones of less than 25 kilograms.
The guidelines were developed through extensive public, industry and government consultation to ensure they are fit-for-purpose and provide practical guidance for planning authorities and drone delivery operators.
This forms part of the department's ongoing work to provide regulatory, policy and other support for people, businesses and industry to adopt new and emerging aviation technology.
Find out more
- Read the guidelines.