CHAIRMAN REPORT
The world is changing and so must we. Over the past few years inflation has driven prices higher peaking at an annual rate of almost 8 percent in late 2022. At the same time, changes are occurring in the aviation industry that are unprecedented in recent decades. If we ignore these changes then we run the risk of dying. The world will change around us and move on leaving us behind.
For the next five years we have set a goal to move the organisation beyond 10,000. More than 10,000 members, more than 10,000 customers, more than 10,000 aircraft. Lofty goals it might be said but achievable if we do our job right and react to market forces in a proper manner.
We have a stable business much like Kodak did once upon a time, however, if we try to drive the market in a direction new want it to go then, like Kodak, we will fade into the history books. This
is not to say we have to turn our backs on where we came from (film cameras are still a thing!), it just means we have to be responsive to market forces. This means protecting what we have while embracing emerging technologies and ideas with vigour. That is the intention of our new strategic plan.
We have six main tenets the this newly revised plan:
• Safety
• Community
• Advocacy
• Diversification
• Innovation
• Stability
Each of these tenets guards our existing place in the aviation sector while also paving the way for exiting new developments.
Many of these things embody what we already do – safety has been paramount to us for a long time and we continue to advocate for the industry at large – but we are also seeking to open the door to new opportunities. Right now we are heavily focussed on MOSAIC (Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certificates), an initiative led by the US and supported by RAAus here in Australia.
Many won’t realise this but we are the only Australian representatives in the room helping to shape the future standards guiding the design, manufacture and support of the next generation of light sport category aircraft. This includes what we currently fly while also ushering in a new era of larger, faster, higher aircraft as well as new forms of flight not quite out of the starting blocks yet.
Building this community through advocacy while maintaining our safety record will be pivotal in us diversifying our income streams through innovation which will lead to continuing stability.
We are also cognisant of the need to diversify in other ways by introducing new products to the market, appealing to a broader audience and reimagining the ways we engage with the wider Australian community. All of these initiatives are
designed to widen our audience and reach in a manner that brings new people into the fold and grows the aviation sector as a whole.
In this document you will find a high level overview of how we will achieve this and continue to deliver value to our members, both current and future, for many years to come. We are currently the largest aviation community in the country representing aviators in every state and territory
and we will remain in this role for many years. Your board and I are proud to present this plan as the next stage in the fifth decade of our existence here in Australia. We are equally excited to bring you along for the journey.
Safe flying!
Michael Monck Chairman, RAAus
For and on behalf of the board
LOOKING FORWARD
Recreational Aviation Australia (RAAus) is proud to present its 2025–2030 Strategic Plan. This plan builds on the momentum from our 2023–2025 strategy, outlining a bold new direction aimed at growing our community of pilots, maintainers, and aircraft owners.
The aviation landscape is changing—with new technologies, regulatory opportunities like MOSAIC, and emerging markets creating unprecedented potential—and so must we. With a foundation built on integrity, inclusivity, and safety, we are committed to a strategy that empowers and expands recreational aviation now and into the future.
RAAus is Australia’s largest non-profit aviation body. We currently represent close to 10,000 aviators operating 3,200+ aircraft supported by nearly 200 flight schools and affiliated clubs. This strategic plan sets out to protect our standing in this regard, and to grow our organisation beyond 10,000:
• Pilots and maintainers
• Aircraft
• Engaged youth
• Affiliates
• Customers
OUR DIRECTION
Our Vision...
To be Australia’s leading aviation organisation— fostering a vibrant aviation community that inspires, connects and empowers people everywhere.
Our Mission…
To enable aviation.
Our Purpose and Aims…
RAAus exists to not only to protect existing members’ rights and freedoms to fly, but to inspire new participants in aviation, and to provide a compelling case for expansion into a broader range of aviation activities.
We want to challenge the notion of what recreational aviation is. Recreational aviation is more than flying for fun. Recreational aviation includes ground-based aviation activities and youth programs, an efficient means of transport, an enabler of aviation careers, a pathway for aerospace innovation and facilitator of aviationrelated commerce.
We also see recreational aviation as playing a central role in supporting Australian business operations. Importantly, recreational aviation should not be limited to conventional aircraft.
WHO WE ARE
A diverse and inclusive community of people who fly, fix, design, build, and enjoy aircraft, RAAus brings together individuals who share a genuine passion for aviation. Our members represent every aspect of recreational aviation, from first-time flyers to experienced builders and maintainers, all connected through a supportive and welcoming environment. RAAus provides accessibility for newcomers, affordability for those pursuing their passion, and simplicity in processes that make participation easier. At the same time, we continue to embrace innovation, ensuring that our community remains safe, progressive, and sustainable.
Originally established as the Australian Ultralight Federation (AUF), the organisation has a long history of representing and supporting recreational aviation. In 2004, the AUF evolved into Recreational Aviation Australia Inc., reflecting the broader scope of activities and aircraft under its remit. This evolution was a recognition of the growing role of recreational aviation and the increasingly diverse membership it served. In 2016, the organisation transitioned again, adopting
a Company Limited by Guarantee structure to strengthen governance and ensure long-term sustainability.
Today, we are Recreational Aviation Australia Limited, an organisation that continues to adapt in line with the growth and diversity of aviation more broadly. These changes reflect not only the expansion of our membership but also the importance of building a modern and resilient structure capable of meeting future challenges.
As a Civil Aviation Safety Regulation (CASR) Part 149 Certificate holder, RAAus maintains a formal role in aviation safety and compliance on behalf of its members. Operating with a lean structure of fewer than 20 full-time staff, we deliver highly costeffective services that extend across the country. Despite our compact size, our reach and impact are significant, with services that span safety oversight, member engagement, training, and advocacy. This efficient model ensures RAAus remains focused on delivering strong value to members while supporting the ongoing growth and sustainability of recreational aviation in Australia.
MEMBER BENEFITS
Members have access to our simplified, costeffective aviation system and membership offerings that include:
• Self-declared medicals
A simple self-declaration system allows members under 75 to confirm fitness to fly, reducing cost and complexity while maintaining safety and accountability.
• Affordable and advanced aircraft access
Partnerships like Stratton Finance and IOR
Aviation make ownership and flying more affordable through finance options and national fuel discounts.
• Aircraft self-maintenance rights
Approved maintenance training enables members to service their own aircraft, lowering costs and building technical confidence and safety awareness.
• Robust member insurance
All members are protected by $20 million in liability and passenger insurance, ensuring strong safety and financial security.
• Access to a national training and support network
A nationwide network of schools, instructors, and scholarships supports member development and access to high-quality training resources.
• Highly responsive staff
Our professional team provides timely, expert assistance to members, ensuring efficient service and reliable support.
• Legislative advocacy on behalf of members
RAAus represents members’ interests with CASA and industry bodies, promoting fair, practical regulation and protecting flying privileges.
• Member discounts
Members enjoy exclusive savings on aviation products, fuel, merchandise, and financial services through trusted industry partners.
CENTRAL TENETS
The RAAus Board has agreed six central tenets guiding our strategy:
1. Safety
A non-negotiable cornerstone of our culture.
2. Community
An enriching ‘community’ experience for both new and existing members.
3. Advocacy
Advocate and proactively engage on issues of importance for the benefit of members, the aviation industry and the community it supports.
4. Diversification
Diversifying both membership and finances to build resilience, ensuring the organisation can adapt, thrive, and remain strong no matter what challenges arise.
5. Innovation
Embracing new technologies and simplifying access.
6. Stability
Resilience through good governance and strong planning.
Fundamentally, these tenets are aimed at growth which provides:
• Greater collective voice – amplifying advocacy efforts and impact.
• Increased financial stability – through diverse and recurring revenue streams.
• Broader skill sets and perspectives –enriching ideas, innovation, and problemsolving.
• Enhanced community and networking –fostering mutual support and collaboration.
• Stronger resilience – reducing reliance on a small base and ensuring longevity.
OUR INITIATIVES
Underpinning these tenets are several key strategic initiatives:
1. Expand Membership
» Campaigns that attract new pilots, maintainers, and technology operators
» Programs for youth and non-traditional participants
» Changes that reduce barriers to flight
2. Enhance Member Value and Engagement
» Expanding benefits, support and engagement tools
» Improving internal systems and services
3. Support to New Aviation Technologies
» Engagement with and adoption of UAS, AAM, eVTOL and MOSAIC initiatives
» Advocacy for regulatory frameworks that directly support innovation
4. Grow Income and Diversify Offerings
» Introduce products and services beyond traditional aviation memberships
» Launch fundraising and grant-seeking initiatives
5. Strengthen Education, Training and Enabler Pathways
» Build school partnerships and accredited courses
» Support dual pathway training and instructor development
» Programs that make it easy to establish aviation enablers
6. Advance Advocacy and Policy Influence
» Engage at federal and state level
» Push for Part 149 expansion and CASA alignment
7. Modernise Marketing and Brand Strategy
» Reimagine our digital presence
» Position RAAus as Australia’s leading aviation organisation
8. Reinforce Enterprise Risk and CyberSecurity
» Embed risk management and compliance culture
» Safeguard data and improve operational resilience
We measure our strategic performance by our ability to:
• Deliver exceptional value and safety outcomes
• Inspire and retain members
• Expand participation in aviation
• Support emerging aviation sectors
Strategic initiatives will be delivered via Annual Business Plans with KPIs, resourcing, and review cycles. The Board will regularly evaluate progress, adapting as needed to meet the evolving needs of members and the industry.
SUSTAINABILITY
Careful management of insurance and operational costs
RAAus will maintain close oversight of insurance and operational expenses to ensure long-term affordability and sustainability. By negotiating favourable insurance arrangements, streamlining administrative processes, and adopting efficient technologies, the organisation will minimise unnecessary expenditure while preserving high standards of safety and service delivery.
Reduced reliance on registration and membership fees
Diversifying income streams is essential to reduce pressure on members as the primary source of funding. RAAus will work towards balancing its revenue base by gradually reducing reliance on registration and membership fees, ensuring financial resilience and greater flexibility to adapt to market or regulatory changes without imposing additional costs on members.
scalable income streams
The organisation will actively pursue opportunities for external funding through partnerships, sponsorships, grants, and commercial initiatives that align with its mission. In addition, scalable income streams—such as training programs, events, and industry collaborations—will be developed to create sustainable growth and reduce vulnerability to fluctuations in membership numbers.
Lean operations and strong memberfocused investments
RAAus will continue to operate with a lean and efficient structure, directing resources where they generate the most value for members. Investments will be strategically targeted toward initiatives that improve safety, enhance services, and strengthen member benefits, ensuring that every dollar spent delivers a measurable return to the membership base and supports the long-term health of the organisation.
