Have your say on proposed annual registration for VH aircraft

Why this is proposed 

The introduction of an annual VH aircraft registration scheme will support improved safety outcomes and data accuracy. Cost‑recovery arrangements will be finalised following consultation.

The annual registration process will provide a simple but effective checkpoint to confirm ownership, operational status and aircraft details. This information is not collected elsewhere in the system and will strengthen the aircraft register.

Key changes

Under the proposed scheme:

• aircraft registration would be renewed each year through a digital registration system
• an aircraft registration levy would apply from 1 July 2028
• registered operators would be responsible for confirming contact and registration details each year
• registered operators would need to provide, or update, certain aircraft information, including operational status.

The proposal is intended to improve the accuracy and integrity of the Australian Civil Aircraft Register, support more effective safety outcomes and provide better information about Australia's aircraft fleet.

What we want feedback on

We want your feedback on:

• annual registration levy model options
• annual registration responsibilities
• additional information collection to support safety outcomes 
• digital registration renewals. 

This consultation does not seek feedback on:

• the levy payable
• detailed system design or implementation delivery
• administrative arrangements 
• renewal dates and transitional arrangements.

Your feedback will help shape the proposed scheme before legislation and implementation arrangements are finalised. Further consultation will be undertaken on the draft legislation and Cost Recovery Implementation Statement (CRIS).

Have your say

Consultation is open until 13 August 2026.

Visit the Consultation Hub to review the policy proposal and provide feedback.