Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles - SLS Sydney

The Australian Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle Service (AUAVS) is an operational unit of Surf Life Saving Services Pty Ltd (SLSS) providing the largest coastal UAV (drone) surveillance program in the Southern Hemisphere operating UAVs for a range of public safety uses.

We have an amazing team of UAV operators and are always looking for new members. Our operators undertake a range of activities with their craft including the following.

  • Marine Search and Rescue (SAR)
  • Incident Response and Support
  • Wildlife Surveillance
  • Event Safety and Risk Mitigation
  • Beach Assessment and Mapping
  • Aerial Data Collection and Analysis

UAV Resources

SLSNSW Guide to SLSC Use of UAVs

UAV Announcements

Lifesaving Rescue Services UAV
Announcement 07:25/26 UAV Operator Training EOI
Junior Development Rescue Services UAV Youth
Circular 24/24-25: Lifesaver Drone Outreach Program
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What the UAV Service Does

The UAV Surveillance Program was established a number of years ago to trial the provision of shark surveillance using drones across the NSW Coastline. The program runs during the school holiday periods to ensure the safety of water-users during the busiest periods.

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Becoming a UAV Pilot

Each season our UAV Operators and UAV Pilots (Remote Pilot Licence) deliver UAV surveillance across nominated and identified locations, working alongside lifesaving patrols and professional lifeguard services.

Find out how to become a UAV Operator.

Last updated: August 29, 2025