AusSORA – Assessment requirements and criteria - Draft Advisory Circular - 101-06 v1.0

We asked stakeholders for their views on draft advisory circular AC 101‑06 v1.0 AusSORA - Assessment requirements and criteria to support SORA‑based approval applications. We further asked participants to identify any gaps or unresolved safety issues.

The consultation was open from 11 to 26 March 2026 and it is now closed. This summary outlines the feedback we received.

About this consultation

The survey asked whether the content of AC 101-06 v1.0 was clear, sufficient, and fit for purpose.

We received 15 responses. Respondents included Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operator’s Certificate (ReOC) holders, Remote Pilot License (RePL) holders, industry and professional associations, technology developers, startups and individuals. Of those who made written submissions, 12 consented to publication and 3 requested their submissions be confidential.

Summary of feedback

Overall, respondents expressed strong support for the direction of the AC and its alignment with JARUS SORA 2.5. They said it improves structure, clarity and consistency compared to TMI 2024-03 and JARUS SORA 2.0. However, they also identified areas that need refinement to improve usability, flexibility and completeness.

Common feedback themes were:

• providing worked examples, templates and use-case scenarios to support practical application of the framework
• improving document structure and readability, including reducing repetition, better placement of tables and simplifying complex descriptions
• explaining clearly how key elements interact, particularly grid resolution and containment methodologies
• concerns that the framework is optimised for aeroplane and multirotor RPAS, and does not adequately cater for novel or non-standard operations, including airships and high-altitude platforms
• the need for a more detailed adjacent area determination and containment methodology, including updating assumptions and consideration of common failure modes
• the need for supporting tools and calculators to reduce complexity and improve efficiency for both applicants and CASA.

Overall, stakeholders consider the AC to be fit for purpose and a positive step forward. They noted its effectiveness depends on additional guidance material and tools.

Some respondents raised issues outside the immediate scope of the AC but were consistent with broader industry feedback. These included:

• providing improved regulatory service delivery, resourcing and approval timeframes
• progression of guidance for higher SAIL operations and air risk integration with crewed aviation
• broader considerations regarding scalability, operator maturity and repeatable approvals across the regulatory system.

This feedback reflects ongoing themes across the uncrewed industry and highlights that, while the AC represents a strong improvement in methodology, its effectiveness will depend on practical implementation, supporting tools and integration into the existing regulatory system.

CASA thanks respondents for their detailed and constructive submissions. The feedback shows strong support for the AC and highlights ways to improve usability, clarity and flexibility. CASA will finalise the AC after incorporating minor amendments, where appropriate, in response to the feedback received.

CASA has revised the expected publication date to 29 April 2026 to allow time for any final refinements and to ensure the guidance is clear and fit for purpose.

CASA acknowledges the need for additional supporting material, including worked examples, templates and tools, to assist applicants. CASA has considered developing complementary guidance to support consistent application.

CASA also recognises feedback on clarity, flexibility and scope, including improving structure, explaining key risk interactions, ensuring proportionality, and accommodating a broader range of operations. These, along with feedback on air risk and broader regulatory alignment, will be considered in future updates or through additional guidance material.