As an aerial work operator, you need an SMS if you are:
- transporting marine pilots
- carrying fireground personnel
- operating multi-engine transport category rotorcraft with a MTOW of more than 3,175 kg
- operating multi-engine aeroplanes with a MTOW of more than 5,700 kg
- operating an aeroplane powered by a turbofan or turbojet engines.
By 1 September 2026, you must:
- submit your SMS procedures
- nominate your safety manager.
By 1 December 2026, you must:
- implement your safety management system (SMS)
- have your safety manager accepted by CASA.
The size of your organisation will affect who you can nominate as your safety manager and the sample manuals available for you to use.
Safety management system
An SMS is a structured, organised way for you to manage safety. It brings together reporting, risk assessment, training and communication into a system that everyone uses.
We have created templates to help you implement an SMS that meets the SMS framework and regulatory requirements. Use and adapt these templates to meet your operational requirements. You can also choose to develop your own content.
The templates include a:
- sample SMS manual
- sample SMS manual for micro-operators
- sample emergency response plan
- Safety management system sample manual form templates (ZIP, 2.31 MB)
- guide to using the documents.
IMPORTANT: Using the templates on their own do not translate into having an SMS that meets compliance requirements.
The policies and processes contained in the SMS manuals and their supporting documents provide the framework for you to modify and implement and operate an SMS that is suitable for your operations.
Safety manager
Who you can nominate as your safety manager will depend on the size and nature of your operation.
There are 2 operator types:
- micro-operator (10 or less operational safety critical personnel)
- non-micro-operator (11 or more operational safety critical personnel).
Your operator type determines:
- who you can nominate as safety manager
- which manual you may use (if using a CASA sample manual)
- what you must have in your exposition and procedures.
Use the information below to find what applies to your operation.
Micro-operator
Your safety manager may be:
- your CEO
- your HOO
- any other personnel.
This is permitted by CASA Exemption EX17/26.
Your safety manager will need to demonstrate competency in the role. Read the section below on safety manager competency for the requirements and evidence you need to provide.
We encourage micro-operators to use the SMS sample manual for micro-operators. You may also choose to develop and submit your own procedures.
Non-micro operator
Your safety manager may be:
- your Head of Training and Checking (HOTC)
- any other personnel.
Your safety manager cannot be your CEO or HOO.
Safety manager competency
Your nominated safety manager will need to demonstrate competency in the role. They can do this by either:
- completing our online safety manager assessment course via AviationWorx (removing the need for interview/assessment)
- providing us with a:
- copy of their CV showing previous experience as a safety manager
- copy of other certificates or educational qualifications
- other evidence to show competency as a safety manager.
We encourage you to use the SMS sample manual for operators. You may also choose to develop and submit your own procedures.
Submission process
Follow the simple step by step process to submit your documentation to us.
Documentation must be submitted by 1 September 2026 to enable us to:
- update the records we hold about you
- accept your safety manager nomination.
Complete submissions will receive written acknowledgment (email) to commence using the submitted procedures and details of your safety manager.