http://www.casa.gov.au/wcmswr/_asset...iefing-doc.pdf
From our esteemed Regulator today, this "minor update" to CASR 61,
CASA recognises the requirement for a student pilot to hold a licence to conduct a solo flight is
unnecessary. Consequently, CASA proposes to remove the Student Pilot Licence (SPL) from CASR
Part 61.
Student pilots: (61.A.3.1): The requirement for a student pilot to hold a licence has been
deleted; however, medical and English language standards have been retained. The
minimum age for student pilots has been lowered from 16 to 15 years. Instructors and Part
141/142 operators will also be required to ensure student pilots satisfy the specified
requirements prior to authorising them to conduct solo flights.