Regulatory reform program refined
The framework for the development of Australia's aviation safety regulations is being refined by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.
The framework will make it easier for the aviation industry to comply with the safety rules, as well as streamlining the process of updating regulations.
At the heart of the new approach to regulatory development are two tiers of legislation, underpinned by supporting safety advisory material.
The tiers of legislation are the Civil Aviation Act and the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations.
CASA plans to support the legislation with material which will provide guidance to the aviation industry on how to comply with the regulations and Act.
CASA's preference is to replace the current three tiers of legislation: the Civil Aviation Act, Civil Aviation Safety Regulations and Civil Aviation Orders.
The big advantages of this framework are that the supporting guidance material will be written in easy-to-follow technical language rather than legal language and there will be flexibility in how the aviation industry complies with the rules.
CASA chief executive officer Bruce Byron says the approach is one used in other leading aviation nations and has a proven track record.
“This means we can make the regulations shorter, with a clear focus on safety outcomes, while leaving the detail about compliance to the supporting material,” Mr Byron says.
“The supporting material will consist of an Acceptable Means of Compliance, advisory circulars and other documentation as required.”
CASA will also be establishing a simpler process for developing the new regulations, while maintaining a high level of consultation with the aviation industry.
“We are forming small industry/CASA teams to develop the supporting material for each set of regulations. These teams will start with the safety outcomes we need to achieve and work out the best and most practical ways of delivering the safety results.
“CASA will then review the relevant regulations to determine what changes need to be made.”
During 2006 the maintenance suite of regulations will be finalised, along with rules relating to aerial work application and the sports aviation suite. The majority of the remaining rules will be completed next year.
For more details on CASA's reform program for 2006-07 go to:
www.casa.gov.au/media/2006/changes.htm