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

Overview

We would like your feedback on the draft advisory circular (AC) 101-06 v1.0.

Draft AC 106-01 explains how to apply the Australian specific operation risk assessment (AusSORA) methodology to classify the risk of remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) operations. The AusSORA methodology adapts elements of the Joint Authorities for Rulemaking on Unmanned Systems (JARUS) specific operation risk assessment (SORA), to the Australian operational and regulatory context.  

CASA will use the AusSORA methodology for all SORA based applications made under Part 101 of the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998 (CASR) commencing 13 April 2026. The final AC may include changes informed by this consultation.

Intended audience

Draft AC 101-06 will be relevant to industry applicants planning to submit SORA based applications to CASA for approval under Part 101 of CASR. The guidance clarifies the steps applicants should take when preparing submissions for approval of complex RPA operations. 

This draft AC provides guidance on:

• grid resolution selection to support the determination of the intrinsic ground risk class
• ground risk class determination
• ground risk mitigations
• adjacent area and containment methodology
• application of operational safety objectives
• transition to AusSORA applications

and a reference matrix to support AusSORA applications.

Why your views matter

We are seeking feedback as to whether:

• the content and structure of the guidance provided is clear and sufficient
• the guidance is fit for the purpose to support SORA based applications for approval.
• there are any significant safety issues that the guidance has not considered.

We recognise how valuable your contribution is to the regulatory development process. Your feedback will increase our understanding of your needs and whether the draft AC provides adequate guidance on assessment requirements and criteria for SORA based applications.

How to submit feedback

Please submit your comments on the draft AC through the Consultation Hub using the survey provided. If you are unable to provide feedback this way, please email us at regulatoryconsultation@casa.gov.au.

Please read the AC document before providing your feedback.

What happens next

At the end of the response period, we will:                                                               

• review all comments received
• make responses publicly available on the consultation hub (unless you request your submission remain confidential)
• publish a Summary of Consultation which summarises the feedback received and outlines any intended changes and next steps.

Feedback that improves the guidance will be incorporated into the final guidance.

Related Documents

All relevant documents are attached in the ‘Related’ section at the bottom of the overview page. They are:

• Draft AC 101-06 v1.0
• MS Word copy of online consultation for ease of distribution and feedback within your organisation.