Our Drone Articles

From CASA Non-significant change: here.

More details from CASA on Very your ReOC: here.

Definition of Significant change

The definition of what is considered a significant change depends on the Part. You can find a list of significant changes in the relevant legislation. While these changes are not the same across the different legislation, there are some common significant changes across legislation. These can include: changes to operational locations changes to organisational structure other changes that do not maintain or improve, or are not likely to maintain or improve, aviation safety. Approval of a significant change is chargeable under the Civil Aviation (Fees) Regulations 1995. You will receive an estimate of costs to assess these changes.

For drones Significant changes:

Definition of Non-significant change

A non-significant change is any other change that doesn’t fall into the definition of a significant change. You must notify us of non-significant changes to your RPAS Operations Manual within 21 days after the change occurs. We do not review these changes, so you can start using the new procedures immediately. There is no fee for making non-significant changes.

Examples of non-significant changes include:

• adding a new RPA to Schedule 1 of your RPAS Operations Manual, as long as it is within the approved scope of your ReOC

• updating or removing serial numbers in Schedule 1 of your RPAS Operations Manual, if required by your ReOC

• removing RPA from Schedule 1 of your RPAS Operations Manual

• correcting spelling errors or formatting issues

• improving aviation safety:

• adding procedures for a safety observer or spotter

• enhancing training and checking process

• implementing remote pilot recency requirements

• setting limits on driving and flying hours

• increasing inspection or replacement periods for parts based on maintenance trends.

General preparation / steps

1. Important Pre-Requirements

Before submitting the change to CASA, ensure:

• You have successfully passed the T100 Type Rating Assessment.

• CASA has officially issued the T100 type rating on your RePL.

• You can confirm this through your myCASA portal under Licences.

• Do not submit the ReOC change until the T100 endorsement is visible.

2. Why This Is a Non-Significant Change

• Both T50 and T100 fall under the Medium Multirotor (25-150kg) category.

• The addition does not affect operational risk level, company structure, or safety assurance system.

• No changes to the type of operation, airspace category, or operational area.

• Therefore, it qualifies as a non-significant change under CASA Part 101 MOS.

3. Required Documents to Update

Prepare the following before submitting through myCASA:

How to Submit (2methods)

You can either 

1. submit the form and supporting documents via email, OR 

2. via myCASA portal, attach the supporting documents (generally faster)

CASA form via email

1. Log in at https://mycasaservices.casa.gov.au

2. Go to "Organisations" > Select your ReOC

3. Click “Submit Variation / Change to ReOC”

4. Choose "Non-significant change – Aircraft addition (Medium category)"

5. Upload updated documents:

• Revised Operations Manual pages

• Revised Procedures (if applicable)

• Copy of RePL with T100 endorsement

• Cover letter explaining the change

6. Submit the application. CASA typically takes 5–15 business days to update.
   
   

Email the updates to: [email protected]

Include:

• ReOC Change Summary

• Filled and Signed ReOC Non-Significant change update form

• Updated ReOC manual (all docs)

• Updated RePL Copy (including your updated type ratings)

Via myCASA portal (recommend as faster)

1. Create or log in to your myCASA portal account.

2. Go to your ReOC holder profile (either individual or business).

3. Click Manage certificates and select your ReOC certificate from the list.

4. Click “Notify CASA of a non-significant change”, fill in what is required.
   
   

Provide the required details:

• State you are adding the DJI T100 to your operational aircraft list.
  
  

• Confirm that it is a medium multirotor, eg. same category as DJI T50.
  
  

• Confirm no change to organisational structure, safety systems or operational risk.

Upload supporting documents:

• Updated sections of Operations Manual and Procedures Library.

• Copy of your RePL with T100 endorsement.
  
  

Submit the notification.

• CASA will send an email acknowledgement—no assessment or fee is required for non-significant changes.

What a fantastic weekend at the Murrumbateman Field Days! Our team — Oscar, Nick, Charlie, Chloe, Ali and George — had a brilliant two days meeting hundreds of growers, graziers, and rural innovators who stopped by to learn about the latest in agricultural drone technology.

We showcased the DJI Agras T100, T50, and T25 spray drones, along with the DJI M4 Multispectral (M4T) for animal spotting and precision mapping. Our demo flights on the main oval drew big crowds and plenty of conversation — proving just how fast this technology is transforming the way farms handle spraying and spreading.

It wasn’t just about showing off what drones can do — we also learned a lot from the locals. From broadacre growers keen to automate spraying, to graziers looking for better ways to manage pasture and weeds, to hobby farmers exploring drone use around small blocks — even a few military and emergency services visitors with ideas for surveillance and mapping applications. The insights and enthusiasm we heard from across the community were inspiring.

Across the weekend, we were approached by many local farmers from Murrumbateman, Yass, Goulburn and surrounding regions, keen to see how drones can boost productivity, reduce costs, and help them get the job done faster.

This was our third year exhibiting, and we’re already looking forward to making it our fourth next year. After 11 years in operation, Drones For Hire remains the go-to agricultural drone partner for setup, training, and support across the region.

Thanks to everyone who stopped by — and to those who missed us, we’ll be back even bigger next year!

 Learn more about how drones are changing farming at dronesforhire.com.au

Hi all, we have been super busy with DJI T40 demonstrations and customer setups since the units arrive in late 2022. Please see a variety of images and videos below and please feel free to reach out with any questions or for a list of upcoming demo dates and locations. Thanks to AJ, Simpko, Oscar, Damo and Danny for all your hard work to get these days organized and executed. As a team we have learned a lot about the system in the past few months and feel very confident in addressing customer questions regarding spraying and spreading methods, prescription mapping, Terra , NDVI, nozzle types and just about everything. We have also stipped down a T40 in order to understand its components and inner workings more thoroughly.

Henty Machinery Field Days 2025 

Our DJI Agriculture Authorised Service Center (ASC) at Mummel NSW

Mummel NSW, February 2024

St Helens QLD, November 2023

Murrumbateman Field Days 2023

Warroo NSW, October 2023

Harcourt VIC, October 2023

Henty Machinery Field Days 2023

Previous T40 setup days & demo days

Register your interest to attend 

Limited numbers. Registered individuals are welcome to attend after receiving a confirmation email from us.  

Returning to the full service overview? Read the original DFH article:

Get Your ReOC with DFH (Drones For Hire)

1. What is the difference between a ReOC and a RePL? Why do I need a ReOC?

• RePL (Remote Pilot Licence): A personal licence that allows you to fly drones commercially under someone else’s ReOC, or in limited excluded category operations. 

It is held by an individual and certifies that you’ve completed CASA‑approved training, including aeronautical theory, at least five hours of flight time, and a practical flight assessment.

• ReOC (Remote Operator’s Certificate): An certificate held by business or organization (including sole traders), it is issued by CASA that allows you (or your company) to operate drones commercially, supervise other RePL holders, and expand operational capabilities via CASA approvals (e.g., EVLOS, BVLOS, night flying, restricted airspace).
  
  

👉 Simply put:
RePL = your permission to fly the drone.
ReOC = your right to operate and supervise drone operations professionally.

To dive deeper into what’s required for a RePL in 2025 and how that differs from ReOC, check out this guide: RePL: Licensing for Drone Operations in Australia (2025 Update) (Drones For Hire).

2. Do I need a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) or Type Rating before applying for a ReOC?

Yes. You must already hold a RePL, and we strongly recommend you to hold the Type rating you want before applying for a ReOC.

• Any Type Ratings (TRs) (e.g., DJI Agras T50/T100, heavy-lift drones) you want included on your ReOC must already be on your RePL.
  
  

• If you add TRs later, CASA requires a ReOC Variation (Form 101-02) with additional fees and processing. (We can help with that, inquire us for the price)

3. What information and paperwork are required for a ReOC application?

To start your application, you’ll need:

• ARN (Aviation Reference Number) and ID.

• Entity details (individual sole trader or company/ASIC extract).

• Ops scope (what you plan to do) and your aircraft list.

• Completed CASA Form 101-06, DFH intake form, and supporting documents.

4. What do I need to apply for a ReOC?

In addition to the paperwork, you’ll need to:

• Decide if you’re applying as an individual or a company.

• Be willing to go through an interview with a CASA Delegate.

• Prepare a mission pack (Job Safety Assessment, Risk Assessment, Flight Authorisation).
  
  

DFH provides intake forms, templates, and coaching to make this smoother. Steps to prepare a mission pack and the interview will be sent to you after enrolment.

5. How does the ReOC application process work with DFH?

Here’s the workflow:

1. You choose Fast-Track or Lightweight package.
   
   

2. DFH sends you an intake form + checklist.
   
   

3. You complete CASA Form 101-06 and supply docs.
   
   

4. DFH packages and submits to our Delegate.
   
   

5. Delegate issues custom manual, scenario, and booking link.
   
   

6. You complete the scenario & mission pack, and book a date for an interview with the delegate (online).
   
   

7. Interview with Delegate → Knowledge Deficiency Report (KDR) if needed → fix & resubmit.
   
   

8. Delegate lodges with CASA → CASA issues ReOC.
   
   

6. How long does it take to obtain a ReOC?

The exact timeframe depends on CASA’s workload and how quickly you return your documents and amendments, but with DFH’s packaging and Delegate pathway, most applicants receive their ReOC in 2–3 weeks on average. Faster turnarounds are possible if you are ready and responsive.

Typical timeline once all documents are submitted:

• Time to first contact / pre-interview call
  As soon as we receive your registration, we send you the initial info pack. You’ll need to return two key documents from that email. Once we have everything, allow about 1 week for us to review your application and request amendments if needed.
  
  

• Pre-interview to scenario issue
  The Delegate will send you your assessment scenario 4 days before your interview.
  
  

• Average wait to an interview slot
  Usually 7–10 days to secure an interview with the Delegate once you’re ready.
  
  

• From interview to CASA issue
  After your interview (and closure of any Knowledge Deficiency Report, if issued), the Delegate makes a recommendation to CASA. CASA generally issues the ReOC within 3–5 business days.
  
  

👉 Overall: If you’re organised and contact the Delegate quickly, a ReOC can typically be issued in 2–3 weeks.

7. How much does it cost to get a ReOC? What’s the difference between Fast-Track and Lightweight packages?

• Fast-Track ($2,380): Full support, 2 × 60-min coaching calls, DFH packaging, custom Operations Manual, email support until interview, access to DFH resource kit.
  
  

• Lightweight ($1,980): One 30-min consult, basic packaging, Delegate-provided manual, access to resource kit (ongoing 1:1 help billed separately). 

👉 Choose Fast-Track if you want speed, certainty, and coaching. Choose Lightweight if you’re confident and independent.

8. What is in the ReOC interview?

The Delegate will test your knowledge of:

• Your Operations Manual (how your organisation runs safely) → the manual will be provided to you after enrolment.

• Risk assessments (JSA/RA) and flight authorisation forms.

• CASA regulatory knowledge (Part 101, airspace, safety rules).

• Scenario-based planning (showing how you would manage a mission).

9. What is the assessment process?

• Submit application docs → DFH/Delegate check for completeness.

• Receive scenario + prepare mission pack.

• Attend an interview (online or phone).

• If gaps are found, Delegate issues a Knowledge Deficiency Report (KDR) → you address it.

• Delegate submits documents to CASA

• Wait for CASA approval → ReOC issued.

10. Does a ReOC need to be renewed, and what is the process?

• An initial ReOC is valid for 12 months.

• Renewals are then valid for up to 3 years.

• The nominated CEO can renew the ReOC online up to 3 months before expiry, but only if there are no changes to the organisation or its operations.

Important: You cannot renew an expired ReOC. If it lapses, you must apply for a completely new certificate, pay the fees again, and complete the full application assessment.

• Renewal involves updating your Ops Manual (if needed), ensuring personnel details are current, and resubmitting through CASA.
  
  

• DFH offers consultancy services for renewals, Type Rating additions, area approvals, and other ReOC Variations (Form 101-02).
  
  

11. What is a change to a ReOC — CASA Form 101-02 (Variation)

CASA splits changes into significant and insignificant:

Significant Changes

You must submit these through myCASA or using the appropriate form. They typically result in a variation or re‑issue of the ReOC. Examples include:

• New key personnel (e.g., CRP, CEO, Chief RePL Instructor),

• Adding Type Ratings (new aircraft types),

• Expanding operational scope (e.g., BVLOS, night ops),

• Major revisions to your Operations Manual or safety procedures.

Use CASA Form 101‑02: “Application RPA Operators Certificate (ReOC) – initial issue/variation/renewal”
👉 [Download the form here]

Non-Significant Changes

These are minor edits that do not affect operational safety or scope. Examples include:

• Correcting spelling or formatting errors,

• Updating serial numbers,

• Tweaks to scheduling or safety protocols that enhance safety,

• Adding a new drone within the already approved scope,

These changes are non-chargeable and typically processed quickly. You can notify CASA via the myCASA portal under “Manage Certificates” → select your ReOC → “Notify CASA of a non-significant change.”
👉 [Download the form here]

👉 Ready to apply? DFH takes care of packaging, manuals, and interview prep so you can get your ReOC faster and with confidence.

Previously, there has been a heated debate on whether the T100 is considered the Medium or Large RPA category. 

Globally, DJI lists Max Takeoff Weight (MTOW) up to 175–177 kg for certain T100 configs → that would be Large RPA (>150 kg). Two weeks ago, DJI limited Australian T100 operations to a maximum gross weight of 149.9 kg. Under CASR 101.022, that places the T100 in the Medium RPA category (>25 kg and ≤150 kg). 

Not just selling the T100, DFH can assist you get compliant fast: RePL, ReOC application support, arrange Type rating exams. We also provide operations setup days.

▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mz0rcCpcQ7g

What changed?

• Weight & category: With operations capped at 149.9 kg MTOW, T100 use in Australia falls under Medium RPA (CASR 101.022)
  
  

• Why that matters: Medium RPA thresholds trigger specific licensing and operational requirements (RePL upgrade - Type Rating, ReOC ops, procedures, documentation).

What you’ll likely need to operate the T100

1. RePL + Type Rating for the T100 type
   You will need the Standard RePL first. Then a type rating assessment on the T100 is required to legally operate it. DFH is now getting our own TR on T100, we are also happy to assist our customers in arranging the exams.
   
   

2. Operate under a ReOC with appropriate documentations
   For paid/commercial work, you’ll need a ReOC with matching scope, manuals, procedures, and risk controls. Civil Aviation Safety Authority
   
   

3. If you already have the ReOC.

You will need to submit a ReOC significant change to CASA to include the T100 in your operation manual and library. To do it, you need to have obtained the T100 Type rating first. Give us a call if you need assistance.

Please make sure the manual, library, maintenance, RA/JSA, emergency procedures and more, everything is aligned to Medium RPA risk.

How DFH helps

• T100 sales, commissioning & tech support

• Authorised sales of DJI Agras T100 with options for finance and insurance referrals.

• Setup Day (on-site or at DFH): commissioning, firmware, app setup, crew roles, weight & fill calculations (≤149.9 kg), brief on workflow, maintenance & record-keeping, and more!

• Tech support: phone/email escalation, warranty handling, spares & repairs, firmware/update guidance, and operational troubleshooting.
  
  

• RePL standard course & T100 type training – we can arrange training for you.
  
  

• ReOC application support – we prepare or co-prepare compliant manuals, forms, and evidence packs, then coordinate with a CASA delegate for initial ReOC approval.
  
  

Fast-track option: Already flying T50 or other AGRAS drones? We can assist you in how to amend your current systems to Medium RPA requirements, fill the gaps, and schedule your upgrade pathway.

FAQ

1. Is the T100 “Large RPA”?
   No. In Australia, Large RPA is >150 kg; Medium RPA is >25 kg and ≤150 kg. At 149.9 kg, T100 is Medium RPA.

2. Can I fly the T100 under the “excluded” category?
   Most commercial work will require a ReOC and RePL (Medium).

3. I already have a Small RPA RePL—what’s my upgrade path?
   The Part 101 MOS sets standards for upgrading from small to Medium RPA. You will need a Type rating T100 exam to obtain the rating.

4. I already have a Medium RPA RePL (for T50 type) and a ReOC. What do I need to add to operate the T100?

You’ll need a T100 type endorsement. For the ReOC, ensure your Ops Manual explicitly includes DJI Agras T100 and related procedures Then, submit a ReOC variation (Form 101-02) with updated manual/procedures, and all related documents.
Also, register the T100 with CASA and update insurance (if applicable).

5. Do I need new manuals?
   Yes, each Medium RPA ops has their own manuals and procedures, maintenance etc. You will need to update your current ReOC and submit it for CASA’s approval.

Get started with DFH

• Give us a call: On the type of drones you are interested in. We will advise the documents required.
  
  

• RePL upgrade & T100 type training: We’ll arrange your training plan, no worries.
  
  

• ReOC application: Choose DFH-prepared manuals or co-prepared with a CASA delegate

Call 1300 029 829 today to secure your slot for the next T100 intake.

Drones are transforming the agricultural industry by improving efficiency and reducing costs through aerial spraying, crop monitoring, and livestock management. However, it’s essential to comply with CASA regulations when operating drones in farming or commercial settings. Below is a guide to the current rules and requirements.

Weight Categories & Basic Requirements

≤250 g (Micro) / >250 g to ≤2 kg (Very Small)

• Operator Accreditation if operating commercially (free, valid 3 years).
  
  

• Drone Registration: (Free for drones ≤500 g, valid for 1 year).
  
  

• Operating Conditions: Must follow Standard Operating Conditions (SOC) at all times.
  
  

>2 kg to ≤25 kg (Small)

Own Land (Landowner/ Private Landholder Excluded Category):

• Operator Accreditation if operating commercially (free, valid 3 years).
  
  

• Drone Registration (1-year validity).
  
  

• Keep operational records.
  
  

• Cannot accept payment for services.
  
  

Commercial / Any Land:

• RePL required for the type/class of RPA.
  
  

• Must operate under a ReOC (or under another operator’s ReOC).
  
  

• Drone Registration (1-year validity).
  
  

• Maintain operational records.
  
  

• Compliance with SOC unless CASA approval is granted for EVLOS, BVLOS, spraying, or swarm operations.
  
  

>25 kg to ≤150 kg (Medium)

For drones over 25 kg, even if operating over your own land, CASA requires:

• RePL with a Type Endorsement for the specific machine (e.g. T50 Type rating).
  
  

• Drone Registration (1-year validity).
  
  

• Keep operational records.
  
  

• Cannot accept payment for services under excluded category.
  
  

Complex Operations (Require CASA Approvals)

Extended Visual Line-of-Sight (EVLOS)

• RePL + ReOC or operate under a ReOC holder.
  
  

• EVLOS procedures in your operations manual (CASA template available).
  
  

• CASA approval required.
  
  

• IREX no longer required for EVLOS.
  
  

Beyond Visual Line-of-Sight (BVLOS)

• RePL + ReOC or operate under a ReOC holder.
  
  

• Pass IREX (or operate under supervising RePL with IREX).
  
  

• CASA approval required.
  
  

• Note: CASA is developing a new BVLOS exam to replace IREX in future.
  
  

Swarm Operations (Multiple Drones)

• RePL + ReOC or operate under a ReOC holder.
  
  

• CASA approval required.
  
  

Spraying Operations

• Own land: No CASA approval required if operating one drone only.
  
  

• Commercial spraying: Requires CASA approvals under ReOC and compliance with local chemical regulations.
  
  

• Check state or territory laws for chemical rating licences, Chemicals License Requirement.

Drones For Hire offers RePL training, ReOC application assistance, and type endorsement courses for agricultural drones such as the DJI T50. We also provide consulting for EVLOS, BVLOS, and swarm approvals.

Contact us today to get started:
Phone: 1300 029 829 | Email: [email protected]

Disclaimer This article provides general information only and does not replace CASA regulations or legal advice. Always refer to the latest CASA legislation and guidance before conducting any drone operations. For official information, visit casa.gov.au.

Purpose and Use Case

DJI T100:
Designed for large, open, and relatively flat properties (300+ ha), the T100 excels in broadacre operations. Its size, speed, and liquid capacity make it ideal for covering long, uninterrupted runs with minimal obstacles like trees or steep hills.

DJI T50:
While the T50 is also suitable for broadacre work, it's more compact and agile-making it better suited to mixed terrain including hills, paddock edges, and tighter spaces. Though it covers less ground per hour than the T100, its versatility is a strength.

Productivity and Performance
T50:
- Already available and field-proven.
- June sale pricing: $27,500 ex GST for the 3-battery bundle.
- Two T50s can cover up to 26 ha/hour combined (13 ha/hour each at 25 L/ha application rate).
- Flow rate: 24 L/min.
- Tank capacity: 40 L.
- Cruise speed: ~28 kph.

T100 (estimated):
- Not yet released; real-world performance still to be confirmed.
- Estimated coverage: ~21 ha/hour at 25 L/ha.
- Flow rate: up to 40 L/min.
- Tank capacity: 75 L.
- Likely spray speed: ~38 kph.

In theory, the T100 could be ~1.5x more productive than a single T50. However, it's still slightly less productive than two T50s combined-though simpler logistically, with just one aircraft to manage and fewer battery swaps.

Labour and Logistics
2x T50s:
- Requires 2 operators.
- More equipment to manage.
- Greater trailer space and more setup time.
- Can operate side-by-side or in different paddocks simultaneously.

T100:
- Operable by a single person.
- Bulkier, but designed to be disassembled for easier transport.
- Easier to manage day-to-day from a staffing perspective.

Reliability and Maturity
T50:
- Well-tested and reliable in Australian conditions.
- A known issue with some battery batches has now been resolved.

T100:
- Brand new platform.
- As with most new tech, expect some initial firmware issues.
- DJI generally responds quickly with updates.

Cost Comparison and ROI
Option A: Two T50s
- 2x T50 kits (3 batteries each): $55,000 ex GST
- 2x Spreaders: $4,000
- 24 kVA generator required
- Total: ~$59,000 ex GST

Option B: One T100
- T100 kit (3 batteries): ~$44,000 ex GST (expected)
- 1x Spreader: $2,000
- 16 kVA 3-phase generator required
- Total: ~$46,000 ex GST

Additional Considerations:
- The T100 will likely hold its value longer due to newer tech.
- T50s are eligible for the instant asset write-off before June 30.
- With two drones, you gain operational redundancy and more flexibility.

Final Thoughts
If you need a solution right now that is proven, versatile, and cost-effective-two T50s are a smart move, especially while EOFY deals and tax incentives are active.

If your primary goal is broadacre efficiency with simpler logistics and you're comfortable waiting (and taking a chance on a new platform), the T100 may be worth holding out for.

We hope these insights help with your decision. For tailored advice, contact the DronesForHire.com.au team on 1300 029 829 or [email protected]

Spec Comparison

Charging and Battery Comparison

View T100 bundles for sale - with option to reserve a kit from our first shipment

View 30 min first impressions video below

For broadacre work, we speculate (we don’t have our first unit yet as at the time of writing – 15/7/25), that the DJI T100 will cover up to 26 ha of crops like cotton per hour  (at 20L per ha application rate (one drone).

For spot spraying, compared to a quick spray, you should expect to be roughly 3x as efficient and be using 20%-60% less chemical to get the same kill rate (spray drones are famous for their efficacy because they have the advantage of their big rotors pushing droplets  down, and circulating them throughout the target.

If you are an existing spray drone operator , operating a T50 or T40, you may perceive the T100 as a very big machine, designed just for large broadacre properties – this is not necessarily the case – the T100 has a new lidar sensory system which will enable it to much more confidently move around tricky country – steep, rocky sections, gullies, trees surprisingly well for a relatively big fella! This lidar system will also, in some cases,  negate the need to pre map the operating area  – because the aircraft is more capable of sensing its surrounding environment on the fly and making more confident (less hesitation ) manoeuvres as a result.

Let’s say you’re doing 500 ha a day with your SP sprayer. You might only need 2x or at most 3x T00 drones to do the same, but it’s important to note an SP sprayer costs about 20x as much ($800k or more), requires a lot more maintenance, and can’t operate on soft (wet) ground. So whilst a T100 is not an SP sprayer, it punches way above its weight considering its size, cost, and versatility. Not to mention its modular design, uncomplicated maintenance program, low cost of parts, no diesel expense, and much more efficient use of inputs.

Keep in mind, operating one or more spray drones requires battery changes and liquid/granular refills as a steady workflow as you’re going. You’re not sitting in the cab of an SP sprayer – rather,  your running an ag drone pit crew!

View T100 bundles for sale - with option to reserve a kit from our first shipment

View 30 min first impressions video below