Forward regulatory program

Simplifying health arrangements

Category(s)

Class 4 medical progression

Updated 29 July 2025

View Simplifying health arrangements timeline

Publication(s)

Simplifying health arrangements

Category(s)

Progress development of a Class 4 medical certificate assessed and certified by specialist general practitioners.

Deliverables

A comprehensive post-implementation review (PIR) of the Class 5 self-declared policy will be an opportunity to review and consider the effectiveness of the policy. The PIR will also inform the development of the proposed Class 4 medical certificate

Start date:

Q2 2025

End date:

Q2 2027

Status

In progress

View Improving pilot licensing rules timeline View Airworthiness and maintenance timeline

Recognition of military qualifications

Updated 30 July 2025

Publication(s)

Category(s)

Airworthiness and maintenance

We will continue to work with Defence on pathways for recognition of military qualifications for pilots and Licenced Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (LAME).

Deliverables

We will consider a recognition approach for Defence technical staff responsible for maintenance of communications, navigation and surveillance infrastructure
We will review pilot and pilot instructor recognition
We will consider recognition of Defence maintenance authorisations for LAME licensing

Start date:

Q2 2025

End date:

Q3 2026

Status

In progress

Streamline flight examiner rating approvals

Updated 29 July 2025

Publication(s)

Category(s)

Current approaches to flight examiner rating approvals may not be flexible enough for the range of aviation operations. We aim to streamline efficiency by considering the size, complexity and compliance of operations.

Deliverables

Undertake a scoping exercise to determine and define timeframes for a phased approach to delivery

Start date:

Q2 2025

End date:

Q2 2026

Status

Not started

Rationalise pilot licensing exemptions for general aviation

Updated 29 July 2025

Publication(s)

Category(s)

We will undertake a scoping activity to rationalise current exemptions related to general aviation.

Deliverables

A review of exemptions will be undertaken to further reduce regulatory burden while maintaining safety standards, especially for smaller or non-commercial operators.

Start date:

Q4 2025

End date:

Q4 2026

Status

Not started

Aerial application review

Updated 29 July 2025

Publication(s)

Category(s)

Review fire-bombing requirements under the helicopter low-level rating, alongside broader enhancements to low-level and aerial application operations.

Deliverables

Undertake a scoping activity to determine deliverable phases and to plan likely timeframes for a phased approach for delivery.

Start date:

Q4 2025

End date:

Q4 2026

Status

Not started

Flight crew licensing review

Updated 6 August 2025

Publication(s)

Category(s)