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RPAS Tiered Competency Project


Building the workforce framework for the next generation of drone operations

AAUS is working with Industry Skills Australia to develop a fit-for-purpose, tiered competency framework for Australia’s remotely piloted aircraft systems workforce.

The project will identify the skills required for increasingly complex drone operations and recommend clearer pathways for training, competency development, licensing and professional progression.

Status: In progress
Project completion: 22 March 2027


Project overview

This project will deliver a modern, RPAS competency framework that defines clear tiers of operator capability. These tiers will align to:

  • RPAS types and technical complexity
  • Operational risk levels
  • Industry-specific needs
  • Advanced activities such as Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations and multi-drone missions

The framework will be designed to integrate with existing aviation qualifications and supported by an international scan, extensive industry consultation, and a comprehensive safety risk analysis. The final deliverable will provide CASA with a detailed proposal to inform the future of RPAS licensing as the sector continues to mature.

What it means for industry

A tiered competency model will:

  • Provide guidance for industry to map the skills required for different RPAS systems, based on system capabilities and complexity.
  • Support safer, more consistent operation practices.
  • Create structured and attractive career pathways.
  • Help industry to keep pace with fast-moving technological advancements.

For CASA and the broader aviation ecosystem, this work also supports a smoother transition toward the future licensing reforms in the RPAS and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Roadmap. By laying the groundwork now, this project strengthens safety of RPAS operations and positions Australia to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global market.

What will be delivered

  • A draft Tiered Competency Framework for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems
  • a final report to Industry Skills Australia and the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, including:
    • The proposed tiered competency and licensing framework
    • Evidence-based analysis of Australian industry needs
    • Mapping to current nationally endorsed drone qualifications:
      • AVI30419 Certificate III in Aviation (Remote Pilot)
      • AVI40422 Certificate IV in Aviation (Remote Pilot – BVLOS)
    • AVI59922 Diploma of Aviation (Chief Remote Pilot)
  • Recommendations for integrating career pathways within the broader aviation and RPAS ecosystem.

How AAUS is approaching the project

AAUS is undertaking a structured, industry-led research program that is informed by CASA.

1. Research and international comparison

Reviewing competency and licensing approaches used by CASA and international regulators, including EASA, the UK CAA, Transport Canada and the US FAA.

2. Industry surveys

Collecting evidence from:

  • ReOC holders;
  • excluded-category operators;
  • remote pilots;
  • training providers; and
  • regulators.

3. Interviews and workshops

Undertaking targeted engagement to examine competency needs across different aircraft, operations, sectors and organisational roles.


4. Risk and competency analysis

Connecting operational hazards and risk controls with the knowledge, practical skills and organisational capabilities required to manage them.


5. Framework development

Developing potential competency tiers and specialist endorsement pathways.


6. Industry validation

Testing the proposed framework with subject-matter experts and industry stakeholders before final recommendations are made.

Current project status
Current phase: Industry research and consultation
AAUS is gathering evidence on:

  • shortcomings in existing competency pathways;
  • skills required for current and emerging operations;
  • inconsistencies in training and assessment;
  • industry workforce and career-pathway needs;
  • competencies not adequately addressed by the current RePL framework; and
  • appropriate boundaries between pilot competency and organisational capability.

Have your say

The framework must reflect the real competencies required by industry—not simply existing regulatory or qualification structures.

AAUS is seeking input from organisations and individuals involved in:

  • routine and complex RPAS operations;
  • agricultural and high-capacity RPA;
  • infrastructure and industrial inspection;
  • emergency services and public safety;
  • training and assessment;
  • BVLOS and automated operations;
  • research and development; and
  • employment or procurement of remote pilots.

AAUS contact:

Greg Tyrrell
Executive Director  

Australian Association for Uncrewed Systems
info@aaus.org.au


Project contact:

Haidee Whiteley
Project Manager
Industry Skills Australia
haidee.whiteley@isajsc.org.au


Contact Us

PO Box 496
Glen Waverley VIC 3150

Australia

info@aaus.org.au


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