Display Permit Application
Apply for a Display Permit for your next Event
There are significant benefits to applying for a Model Display Permit for your event.
Invite the public
The primary benefit is the ability to invite the public.
This helps raise the profile of our great sport, engages the local community, and where appropriate, provides an excellent opportunity to boost your fundraising efforts.
Club Visibility & Participation Growth
A Model Display Permit significantly boosts awareness of your club and the sport, creating a platform to attract new members and encourage community involvement.
Use the opportunity to promote your club, attract new members, and publicize future activities such as Come and Try Days or fundraising initiatives.
Safety
The permit process ensures strict adherence to safety standards, protecting spectators, pilots, and nearby property.
It confirms that organizers, volunteers, and participants understand their responsibilities, promoting a culture of safety and accountability.
Required documentation (e.g., risk assessments, NOTAMs) ensures clear communication and preparedness.
Professionalism & Credibility
Holding a permit demonstrates organizational competence and commitment to best practices. It facilitates liaison with authorities and strengthens relationships with local councils and insurers.
While there is some paperwork involved, this process ensures everyone remains focused on the safety requirements of the sport and understands the obligations of organizers, volunteers, and attendees—both flyers and spectators alike. Clear communication is paramount to a successful event.
It is important that you read through all the information presented here to familiarise yourself with what is required and prepare in advance.
Check out the helpful tips section at the bottom of the page.
Hosting a public display event with a Model Display Permit strengthens your club’s eligibility for sporting grant funding from the VMAA.
The Key points for a Model Display Permit
The following items are from MOP019.
4. CONSIDERATIONS FOR A FLYING DISPLAY
4.1 A flying display (a.k.a. model flying display) is a public attended event, conducted by members of the MAAA for the purposes of an aeromodelling airshow.
4.2 To clarify what is explicitly defined as a flying display and avoid any confusion:
4.3 The following are not considered to be a flying display:
4.3.1 attendance is limited to affiliated members of the MAAA and bona fide visitors
4.3.2 the flying of model aircraft is conducted on an informal basis
4.3.3 aeromodelling competitions (within or between clubs where 4.3.1 applies)
4.3.4 ‘have a go’ (or promotional/advertised similar events) where an individual can attend the club to try out and experience aeromodelling
4.3.5 Static exhibitions (no flying of model aircraft)
4.3.6 Members of the public outside the club field and/or approved operational area, who can see aeromodelling activities from their location. E.g. if a person is located outside an aerodrome property boundary.
4.4 The following are considered to be a flying display:
4.4.1 an advertised aeromodelling event encouraging the public to attend as spectators of a model aircraft airshow; or
4.4.2 where a designated viewing area is created specifically for public attendance at an organised aeromodelling event
4.4.3 a model aircraft flying segment which is part of a manned airshow.
Note – If the organisers of an aeromodelling event are unsure whether the event satisfies the criteria for a flying display, the event is to be treated as if it is a flying display and the event organiser must seek an MAAA display permit.
5.1 In accordance with the model flying displays subregulation CASR 101.410(2)(b), a model flying display is considered compliant if the display is conducted:
5.1.1 in an approved area; and
So to be clear your flight area must already be a CASA approved area. (usaully a height limit increase is applied for at the same time)
STEP 1
Read and understand MOP019
This MOP clearly outines the the definition of a Model Flying Display and the requirements of the club, state rassociation and the MAAA.
The Main Steps are:
1. Read and understand MOP019 and then plan out the following required steps.
2. Name of person who is the nominated display director and the “Display Director’s Statement”, Form MAAA002
3. Risk Assessment (specifically for the event), Form MAAA031 (Appendix E)
4. Locality Plan
5. Site Plans. At least two (2), dimensioned plans/drawings of the flying site and surrounding area. One plan shall show the immediate area including pits and spectator areas. The other/s, at a larger scale, shall show the general surrounding area, including
flying areas, and distance to nearby buildings etc.
6. Completion of an “Application for a Permit to Conduct a Display” form, Form
MAAA001
7. Upload the application form and accompanying documents using the Online form below.
Confirm all details by referring to MOP019.Click here to view.
Please note that there are more resource links at the bottom of the page
STEP 2
DISPLAY DIRECTOR’S STATEMENT
It is recomended that you start here with all the suporting documentation before filling out the main application form.
Please note that under the MOP there are 3 separate roles.
– Display organiser
– Display Director
– Flight line Director
In some cases one person may be handling two roles at the same time but is not the prefered option.
Click here to download the form.
STEP 3
Risk Assesment
The risk assesment for your site including events needs to be current.
If you are starting from scratch, reach out to the committee for assisatnce.
Any example if provided is a guide only. There are many similarities between sites, however your RA must inclued any risks that are specific to your site. It is not a straight copy and paste.
A short sample of a risk assement is provided in the MOP and can bee seen by clicking here.
STEP 4
Locality Plan
The locality plan is the plan showing the location of the flying site with the local area.
Feel free to use google maps to show the location of the club flying site.
STEP 5
Flying Site Plans / Drawings
From the MOP
At least two (2), dimensioned plans/drawings of the flying site and surrounding area. One plan shall show the immediate area including pits and spectator areas.
The other/s, at a larger scale, shall show the general surrounding area, including
flying areas, and distance to nearby buildings etc.Two site plans are required.
Both with Dimensions.
SAMPLE: Site plan – Immediate area
SAMPLE: Site plan – General area
STEP 6
Complete Form MAAA001 Model Display Application
Once you have organised all the above documentation, it is time to complete the Application form.
Again a s a remider reach out to the committee if you need help.
Use the form below to upload your application documents
Your application needs to be submitted at lease 28 days prior to the event
STEP 7
VMAA Endorsement
Subject to receiving a complete and compliant application withing the authority of the VMAA, the VMAA will notify your club once the permit is approved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Before you contact us please check if your question has been answered below
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Tips for Success
Please read as this may make the process easier.
Start early
Submit applications at least 28 days in advance.
Changing File type:
There are also online image format converters to go from say pdf to jpg.
Feel free to check out all the questions before starting so you can prepare better.
Communication
Reach out to the committee if you need help or examples.
Promote other activities
Use the event to showcase your club’s activities, values, and achievements—highlighting opportunities like training programs, youth initiatives, and social events.
Engage local schools, youth groups, and STEM programs to inspire the next generation of model flyers.
Distribute branded promotional materials (e.g., banners, pull-up stands, club apparel) to build a professional, approachable image and increase visibility.
Encourage current members to act as ambassadors—welcoming visitors, offering flight demonstrations, and sharing personal experiences to foster connection and interest.
By presenting your club as inclusive, safe, and community-focused, you not only promote the sport but also create a sustainable pipeline of new participants.
Model Display Application Form
A copy of this application goes to the VMAA, the applicant and the event Display Director.