Safety Information

Is Sport Rocketry A Safe Activity? Absolutely!!

In 1957, the first professionally-manufactured rocket motor was designed and produced for general consumer use. Made from safe materials and propellants, it freed the rocket enthusiast from the dangerous business of engine construction and allowed them to concentrate on mastering general disciplines such as aerodynamics, stability, construction, and payload operation. Coupled with a Safety Code containing basic rules for range operations and flight procedures, a safe, educational and fun hobby was born. Since those early days of 1957, over 600 million model rockets have been flown safely around the world.

The Australian Model Rocket Society Inc. (AMRS) maintains the following Rocket Safety Codes: (please click on the relevant link)

AMRS Model Rocket Safety Code

AMRS High Power Rocket Safety Code (extract)

Each code was developed with input from sport rocket flyers, industry experts, professional engineers, scientists and public safety officials. In many cases, extensive experimental testing and analysis was done to enhance previous code versions. The AMRS constantly reviews its Safety Codes for adjustment due to changes in technology and public policy. The AMRS also communicates with other internationally recognised organisations including the CAR, NAR, NZRA and TRA to ensure appropriate compliance in varying jurisdictions. AMRS Members can log in to view the AMRS Safe Launch Practices.

The AMRS Works With Safety Officials

The AMRS maintains open communication with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), the Australian Forum for Explosives Regulators (AFER) and the individual state based explosives regulators. The AMRS works closely with its members when dealing with authorities to ensure a proactive approach with positive outcomes are achieved for all rocketry enthusiasts.

The AMRS Provides and Recognises Rocket Motor Testing and Certification

The AMRS provides rocket motor testing and certifications to the requirements of the relevant Australian regulators and the NFPA 1125. The AMRS also recognises the combined efforts of the CAR, NAR and TRA motor testing facilities. There is over a century of combined experience in testing and certifying rocket motors to performance requirements developed and promoted to the highest standards.

The AMRS Provides Insurance Coverage

Today, that perfect local launch field is likely to belong to a school system, government department, or private landowner who insists on being covered by insurance before allowing you to fly. While we're proud of our safety record, it helps to know that AMRS members are covered by $20,000,000 worth of public liability insurance to give that site owner added peace of mind! The AMRS has worked closely with a specialised sport and entertainment insurance broker to create the only Australian policy designed specifically for rocketry activities in Australia .

The AMRS Offers Training Opportunities

The AMRS offers Safety Officer education to members on various levels. With access to experienced mentors and the only internationally recognised rocketry programs and events in Australia, participants will be exposed to "real world" situations. Some programs will require participants to complete rocket check-in and range safety officer tasks on an operating high power range.

Where Can I Launch Model Rockets? - Based on the official guide from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA)

Please click here to view the guide on where model rockets can be launched

World Record V2 (14metres tall) Safely Recovered under 3 parachutes

World Record V2 (14metres tall) Safely Recovered under 3 parachutes

* Information provided by the Australian Model Rocket Society Inc.