Flying drones on campus

You must have approval to operate a drone on any UQ campus or site, or in any activity related to your employment at UQ.

If you’re planning on flying a drone (unmanned aircraft), you need to be aware of the regulations in place to ensure safety and manage risk.

Both the recreational and commercial flying of drones places liabilities on you, your employer and the aircraft owner under the Airspace Act, Civil Aviation Act and Damage by Aircraft Act. This is known as strict liability.

What you must do when operating a drone at UQ 

Step 1: Prepare to operate a drone

  • Familiarise yourself with the rules and regulations: CASA Drone Rules.
  • Apply for your individual Aviation Reference Number (ARN): CASA ARN Application.
  • Complete either your operator accreditation (free online) or remote pilot licence (1-week course): Operator Credentials.
  • Contact the Chief Remote Pilot to ensure the drone is registered under UQ’s ARN: Drone Registration Requirements.
  • Complete the UQ drones training module in Workday (not yet available).
  • Consider the HSW risks, ethical concerns, and privacy implications associated with your planned operation.

Step 2: Plan and seek approval

For enquiries and operational support, contact drones@uq.edu.au.

Ensure compliance if you use a drone service 

If you are engaging an external party to operate drones in activities associated with the University, refer to the Contractor Safety Management Procedure.

Consult the Chief Remote Pilot to record the necessary contractor details related to drone operations. These details include:

  • a certificate of currency for the contractor’s public liability and professional indemnity insurance
  • evidence of relevant licences, certificates, and accreditations
  • CASA certificate of registration for the drone(s).