About this course

Developed by farmers, for farmers and delivered by an experienced drone operator and trainer, this practical course shows you how to use drones as powerful on‑farm decision‑making tools. You’ll learn how to capture and interpret aerial data to support smarter fertiliser planning, sowing strategies, crop and weed management, and efficient monitoring of farm water systems.

By the end of the course, you will have developed capability in:

  • the safe and efficient operation of drones in agricultural settings
  • understanding Australian laws and requirements for private use of Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA)
  • collecting, analysing, and processing drone data to support tasks such as crop mapping and precision fertiliser planning
Is this course right for me?

This course is ideal for you if:

  • you’re comfortable learning new technology in a supportive environment and using apps or digital tools
  • you can safely operate equipment outdoors, including standing, walking short distances, and handling a drone
  • you’re able to follow safety procedures and comply with drone‑related regulations
  • you’re interested in using aerial data for tasks such as crop mapping, monitoring water systems, or planning fertiliser application

If these points sound like a good fit, you’ll be well‑prepared to get the most out of the training and start applying drone technology on your farm.

At a glance:

Location: Statewide
Course duration: 1 day face-to-face with pre-course online work
Start date: Multiple intakes
Number of units: 2
Indicative fees: $1,375 GST free, Fee free to eligible applicants

Details

  • How to control your drone – get it to return home
  • Setup, procedures and safety checks
  • Basic maintenance and repair
  • Overviews of available drones on the market
  • Australian laws related to the use of RPA’s for private use
  • Collecting and managing aerial images

$1,375 GST-free.

For more information contact a skills training coordinator in your area here

This course explores the opportunities drones provide in farming operations by working through 4 steps.

Step 1. Identify the farm area or mapping project

Listing the details of the farm, airspace and requirements will help shape where we can use agricultural drones and which airframe may best suit to cover the area required.

In January 2021 new regulations were introduced around the use of Remote Aircraft on farms. This course addresses the additional requirements along with providing the knowledge to complete the CASA accreditation and registration.

Step 2. Preparation

Using drones in your operation is like any other specialised equipment, preparation is key!

Preparation will cover your hardware, battery or fuel systems, ancillary equipment such as sensors or spreaders and finally air maps to help us plan the airspace we wish to operate in.

Step 3. Operation

At the face-to-face workshop you will have hands-on sessions where you will build skills in a range of equipment setups, prestart checks, fundamental flight drills, refuelling procedures, automated operation, and data retrieval

Step 4. Shutdowns and maintenance

Full shut down and maintenance requirements to ensure safe operations and ensure that your equipment is packed away for safe transit and be ready the next time you require it.

This course is a blend of online and face-to-face training.

  • Pre-workshop online component (reading and video, short quizzes and assessment)
  • 1 full day practical workshop

    • Entry Requirements 

    • This course requires the completion of pre-course work online. You must be able to commit to 1-2 hours of online course work prior to attending the training day.
    • Not have disqualifying medical conditions that could impair operation or personnel

    Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital capability

    • Reading: checking and interpreting data and safety instructions
    • Writing: completing closed book examination for Safework NSW (if applying for licence)
    • Numeracy: ability to do basic calculations relating to lift requirements such as weight and nature of loads, capacity of forklift
    • Oral Communication/hearing: maintaining communication with instructor while following safety instructions, providing answers to verbal questions
    • Digital Literacy: N/A



    Additional Information

    For information on students rights and responsibilities, and the Tocal College Code of Practice see Industry qualification student policies.