A step in the right direction for GA pilots?
"While CASA is yet to make a final decision on adopting a medical for some private pilots based on the drivers licence standard, a lot of work has been done to assess both the merits and risks of the proposal. The advantage would be that eligible pilots would be able to get a medical certificate from their general practitioner that confirms they meet the unconditional medical standards required to drive a motor vehicle, with some additional requirements to take into account the different risks in flying and driving. Once a pilot had this certificate, they would simply electronically inform CASA and carry the certificate whenever flying. There would be no fee attached to this process. This new type of medical would be available to private pilots flying aircraft up to 1500 kilograms, day visual flight rules and generally with one passenger".
Rest of the story here:
Civil Aviation Safety Authority - March 2012