Australian authorities remain relatively relaxed about drone use, with owners not compelled to register devices unless they're flying them for commercial reasons. 
In contrast, hefty fines and even imprisonment can result from the misuse of drones in the US, with a tightening of rules announced this week by the US Department of Transportation's Federal Aviation Administration.
This week, the US department announced it would introduce mandatory registration for drones used for recreation, and require owners of small unmanned aircraft weighing between 250g and 25kg to register their devices. Civil penalties for non-registration include up to a $US27,500 ($28,500) fine; criminal penalties go up to $US250,000 and three years in prison.
In Australia, strict limits apply to areas where they can be flown; proximity to people, airports and the air space above crowds is not permitted.
Australia's Civil Aviation Safety Authority issued 15 penalty fines in the past financial year to users who breached guidelines that prohibit the devices being flown above 120m, within 30m of people, above crowds or near aircraft and infrastructure such as helipads and airports. Fines range from $900 to $9000.
CASA spokesman Peter Gibson said commercial users could apply to operate devices in special circumstances.The authority will launch an awareness campaign on social media to remind users of the rules ahead of Christmas, as thousands of drones are expected to be given as gifts.