Drone threat to privacy: How should these devices be used? Andrew Waldron and Connor Dalton from C6Aerial, filming in Newport. PRIVACY laws are under the microscope due to the increasing number of remote-controlled drones buzzing across Melbourne's skies. Real estate agents, farmers, aviation enthusiasts, sports clubs and budding filmmakers are among those driving up sales. Models range in price from a few hundred dollars to about $8000. Moves have been made to better educate users about the appropriate use of the devices after a man crashed his drone into the Sydney Harbour Bridge, a woman suffered head injuries after being hit by a drone in Western Australia and a Westpac rescue helicopter nearly collided with a drone flown 300m above ground at night over Newcastle. A drone used to snap an aerial shot of a Mount Martha property for a real estate agent's "for sale" sign also unwittingly captured a next-door neighbour sunbaking topless in her backyard. Despite the offending sign being quickly pulled down, it sparked calls for an overhaul of privacy laws. Real Estate Institute of Victoria chief executive Enzo Raimondo admitted the industry's use of drones was under investigation, with guidelines being drawn up. David Watts, Commissioner for Privacy and Data Protection in Victoria, said the actions of individuals were not covered by state or federal privacy laws. A House of Representatives standing committee on social policy and legal affairs examined the issue earlier this year. It recommended the Federal Government consider introducing legislation by July next year to provide protection against privacy-invasive technologies. Jeff Sussman, president of the Melbourne Radio Controlled Helicopter Club, said flying multi-rotors, or drones, was one of the fastest growing sectors of the hobby market. "While drones are a lot of fun there is a serious side to consider," Mr Sussman said. With more than 150 approved drone commercial operators nationwide, their operations are regulated by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority. While a licence is required for drones used by commercial operators, amateurs don't face the same requirements and are often ignorant of the rules. Andrew Waldron, founder of C6Aerial, which specialises in drones for photography, cinematography and aerial inspection, said he was bound by the Privacy Act. "The adoption of the technology has grown exponentially for amateur use and I believe education is key to ensure it is used in a safe manner," he said. According to CASA regulations, drones are not allowed to fly over populous areas or within 5.5 kilometres of an airfield; can be no closer than 30m to vehicles, boats, buildings or people; can only be operated in daylight and within sight; and must not fly higher than 120m. CASA has issued warnings to more than 100 people in the past year. While it admits privacy violations are a concern, CASA spokesman Peter Gibson said its jurisdiction related solely to aviation safety. ■ You must only operate this aircraft in your line of sight in daylight. ■ You must not fly closer than 30 metres to vehicles, boats, buildings or people. ■ You must not fly over any populous areas such as beaches, other people's backyards, heavily populated parks, or sports ovals where there is a game in progress. ■ If you are in controlled airspace, you must not fly higher than 120m. ■ You should not fly within 5.5km of an airfield. ■ It's illegal to fly for money or economic reward unless you have a certificate from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority. Originally published as Is it a bird, plane or violation of privacy?