National Drone Detection Network

To address these risks, the Australian Government is leading development of a National Drone Detection Network (NDDN). This will be a network of sensors across different locations in Australia to provide timely, accurate and appropriate information to users. The system will be scalable and adaptable to evolving drone technologies and operations detection sensors.

The network is being developed in consultation with Commonwealth, state, territory, and local government organisations, and industry stakeholders, including critical infrastructure sectors. This coordinated approach to developing the network will help to:

• Meet the needs of a wider range of users:
  • Provide data for a wider range of stakeholders.
  • Provide data to assist with regulatory enforcement related to safety, privacy, noise and other outcomes.
• Reduce costs associated with overlaps and duplication in coverage of drone detection sensors, operating and maintenance, and the unnecessary duplication of ICT systems and physical infrastructure.
• Support easier integration with other drone management systems, a future Uncrewed Traffic Management System.
• Support broader whole-of-government drone policy outcomes.

The government continues to work towards achieving initial network operations in 2023.