Drones and Aviation Tech Just Scored A $32.6 Million Federal Budget Boost Share Image: Getty Images The Australian government has pledged $32.6 million of support for aviation technologies like drones in the latest budget. In addition to a funding boost, drones will also become a major focus of new security efforts via the development of the National Drone Detection Network, a new system designed to detect drone activity around airports and sensitive locations. In the newly released Digital Economy Strategy paper, the government outlines the significant security risks associated with new high-tech drones, but also makes clear they’re essential for the future of Australia. It will continue to support the development and advancement of environmentally-friendly drone technologies across Australia in an effort to forge better strategic partnerships with local industries and communities.