What is a ReOC?
If you’ve looked into flying drones commercially in Australia, you’ve probably come across the term ReOC. For many people, it can feel like confusing aviation jargon. So, what exactly is a ReOC, and do you need one?
Breaking it Down
ReOC stands for Remote Operator’s Certificate. It’s issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and gives a business or individual the approval to run a commercial drone operation.
Think of it like a business licence for drones. While a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) is for individual pilots, a ReOC is for the company that employs those pilots.
Why Do You Need a ReOC?
You’ll need a ReOC if:
You want to run your own drone business.
You employ or manage other drone pilots.
You want to take on jobs that require special permissions, such as flying at night, near controlled airports, or beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS).
Without a ReOC, you’re limited in the kind of work you can legally do, even if you already hold a Remote Pilot Licence.
What’s Involved in Getting One?
Applying for a ReOC means submitting documents and procedures to CASA. This usually includes:
Operations Manual – a detailed plan outlining how your business will manage safety and compliance.
Operations Library – supporting documents like risk assessments and checklists.
Evidence of qualified personnel (at least one RePL holder, often a Chief Remote Pilot).
Once approved, you’ll receive your certificate and be able to legally manage commercial drone operations under CASA’s framework.
Do Hobbyists Need a ReOC?
No. Recreational drone flyers don’t need a ReOC. This approval is specifically for commercial operators running their own business or team.
Why Work with a Business that Holds a ReOC?
A ReOC shows that a drone business is committed to operating legally, safely, and professionally. It means CASA has approved their processes and that they can apply for special permissions when needed.
At Enclave Media, we hold the required CASA licences and approvals, giving our clients peace of mind that every project is carried out safely, legally, and to the highest standard.
Final Thoughts
A ReOC is more than just paperwork — it’s what allows a drone business to operate professionally in Australia. If you’re considering starting your own commercial drone company, it’s an essential step.
And if you’d rather skip the complexity and hire professionals who already have the approvals, get in touch with us at Enclave Media. We’ll handle the flying and compliance so you can focus on the results.