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Commercial drone use. Are you covered?

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The commercial drone industry is becoming more and more a part of life for so many Australian businesses. And it’s no surprise really, with many considering Australia as one of the pioneers in drone usage & regulations, infrastructure, and innovation.

Additionally, the economic impact of drones in Australia is expected to reach $14.5 billion by 2040 (up from its current estimate of $5.5 billion), putting us shoulder to shoulder with the likes of the US and China for growth rate by volume.

It’s an exciting time for the drone industry, however working with drones – particularly commercial drones – comes with its own unique set of regulations, perceived challenges, and risks.

Some of the key concerns people have about drone use and misuse relate to privacy and data protection, as well as on-site damages, destruction of property, and even injuries. In fact, drone crash rates are currently doubling every year at a 21% CAGR, based on recent QBE claims data.

So, if you’re interested in utilising a drone for commercial purposes, a sufficient insurance policy is both highly recommended and a worthwhile investment to ensure you, your drone, and your business are properly protected.

Please note: Before you’re able to obtain suitable insurance cover and fly your drone commercially, you will need to acquire a drone pilot license from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).

 

WHAT TYPES OF INSURANCE ARE AVAILABLE FOR COMMERCIAL DRONE OPERATORS?
CASA recommends that commercial operators of drones take out two kinds of insurance:

1. Third party public liability insurance: provides up to $20 million in insurance to cover damages caused by the drone to other third parties. This includes on-site damage, destruction of property, and any injuries caused by the drone.

2. Hull coverage / UAV insurance: this is cover for an agreed value for the loss or damage of your drone and the other equipment you use to operate the drone. Hull insurance is crucial for companies that use high-quality cameras and sensors fitted to the drone as they’re expensive and difficult to replace.

Other insurance considerations to look out for include:

  • Payload – anything the drone is carrying (as long as it’s allowed to), such as cameras, thermal sensors, and LIDARs.
  • Equipment – cover for things like controllers, RTK stations and accessories.
  • Non-owned – for borrowed or leased/rented drones
  • Cybercrime – because drones can be hacked from as far as a kilometre away.
  • Liability – cover for claims against an invasion of privacy that may be contained in an advertisement, broadcast, or telecast captured by the business’s drone
  • Personal injury – for copyright or privacy infringements
  • Transit extension – to cover drone during transportation

 

WHAT IS CONSIDERED COMMERCIAL DRONE ACTIVITY?
You’ll need commercial drone insurance if you undertake activities like these:

  • Creating photos or video content to be sold
  • Inspecting commercial equipment, infrastructure, or sites
  • Monitoring, providing surveillance or security services
  • Creating content for websites where an income is generated from advertising
  • Any drone activities on behalf of your employer

If you’re unsure whether your current liability insurance covers you for drone use as part of your business, please contact us.

Commercial drone use. Are you covered?

Commercial drone use. Are you covered? 
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The commercial drone industry is becoming more and more a part of life for so many Australian businesses. And it’s no surprise really, with many considering Australia as one of the pioneers in drone usage & regulations, infrastructure, and innovation.

Additionally, the economic impact of drones in Australia is expected to reach $14.5 billion by 2040 (up from its current estimate of $5.5 billion), putting us shoulder to shoulder with the likes of the US and China for growth rate by volume.

It’s an exciting time for the drone industry, however working with drones – particularly commercial drones – comes with its own unique set of regulations, perceived challenges, and risks.

Some of the key concerns people have about drone use and misuse relate to privacy and data protection, as well as on-site damages, destruction of property, and even injuries. In fact, drone crash rates are currently doubling every year at a 21% CAGR, based on recent QBE claims data.

So, if you’re interested in utilising a drone for commercial purposes, a sufficient insurance policy is both highly recommended and a worthwhile investment to ensure you, your drone, and your business are properly protected.

Please note: Before you’re able to obtain suitable insurance cover and fly your drone commercially, you will need to acquire a drone pilot license from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).

 

WHAT TYPES OF INSURANCE ARE AVAILABLE FOR COMMERCIAL DRONE OPERATORS?
CASA recommends that commercial operators of drones take out two kinds of insurance:

1. Third party public liability insurance: provides up to $20 million in insurance to cover damages caused by the drone to other third parties. This includes on-site damage, destruction of property, and any injuries caused by the drone.

2. Hull coverage / UAV insurance: this is cover for an agreed value for the loss or damage of your drone and the other equipment you use to operate the drone. Hull insurance is crucial for companies that use high-quality cameras and sensors fitted to the drone as they’re expensive and difficult to replace.

Other insurance considerations to look out for include:

  • Payload – anything the drone is carrying (as long as it’s allowed to), such as cameras, thermal sensors, and LIDARs.
  • Equipment – cover for things like controllers, RTK stations and accessories.
  • Non-owned – for borrowed or leased/rented drones
  • Cybercrime – because drones can be hacked from as far as a kilometre away.
  • Liability – cover for claims against an invasion of privacy that may be contained in an advertisement, broadcast, or telecast captured by the business’s drone
  • Personal injury – for copyright or privacy infringements
  • Transit extension – to cover drone during transportation

 

WHAT IS CONSIDERED COMMERCIAL DRONE ACTIVITY?
You’ll need commercial drone insurance if you undertake activities like these:

  • Creating photos or video content to be sold
  • Inspecting commercial equipment, infrastructure, or sites
  • Monitoring, providing surveillance or security services
  • Creating content for websites where an income is generated from advertising
  • Any drone activities on behalf of your employer

If you’re unsure whether your current liability insurance covers you for drone use as part of your business, please contact us.

Request A Quote
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Beau Runnalls

Beau Runnalls

Senior Insurance Broker

Beau is a senior insurance broker at Midland with seven years of industry experience supporting businesses across Australia. He works across a broad range of sectors, with particular expertise in earthmoving, heavy equipment, trades, and the winery industry.

Known for his attention to detail and measured approach, Beau focuses on delivering insurance solutions that are clear, practical, and free from unnecessary complexity. He remains actively engaged in professional development, ensuring his advice reflects current industry standards and best practice.

Beau places strong value on collaboration and long-term client relationships. Outside of work, he enjoys golf and football, reflecting his team-oriented mindset and active approach both professionally and personally.

Alex Petkovic

Alex Petkovic

Senior Insurance Broker  |  Development & Service

With 27 years of experience in the insurance industry, Alex is a senior broker at Midland, recognised for his depth of knowledge, attention to detail, and straightforward approach. While he works across a broad range of businesses, he has a particular focus on clients in the construction and building sectors.

Committed to keeping insurance clear and practical, Alex places a strong emphasis on honesty and client-first advice. He remains actively engaged with industry developments through ongoing professional development and research, and is also a natural mentor, regularly supporting and guiding emerging brokers within the team.

Joshua-Kerr

Joshua Kerr

National Sales Manager

Joshua is Midland’s National Sales Manager, with more than two decades of experience in the insurance industry. His expertise spans a wide range of insurance solutions, with particular depth in the winery and brewery sectors.

Taking a considered, people-focused approach, Joshua works closely with clients to understand how their businesses operate and the risks they face, allowing him to deliver insurance solutions that are both practical and relevant. He is known for his ability to make complex insurance concepts clear and approachable.

Outside of work, Joshua has a strong connection to community, having spent several years coaching junior basketball and serving as Vice President of a children’s basketball club. Staying closely attuned to industry developments, he is committed to helping clients make informed insurance decisions that support their long-term success.

Justin-Lane

Justin Lane

Director

Justin is a Director at Midland and has been part of the business since 2003. With more than two decades of experience, he works closely with small businesses across Australia, helping them secure insurance solutions that genuinely reflect the way they operate.

Known for his practical, solution-focused approach, Justin places strong emphasis on clarity, reliability, and long-term client relationships. His depth of industry knowledge and consistent, hands-on service have seen him become a trusted adviser to many business owners over time.

Damien Lane

Director

Since 2001, Damien has been central to Midland’s evolution, bringing more than two decades of industry experience and a strong commitment to client-focused service. His expertise spans a wide range of sectors, with recognised depth in the brewery and distillery space.

Working with independent brewers across Australia, Damien helps clients navigate complex operational risks with practical, grounded advice. He is known for his industry knowledge, clear communication, and ability to build enduring client relationships.

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