The Brumby
Labor Government is proposing a more rigorous licensing system for
motorcyclists to help reduce their over-representation in the road toll and improve
safety for new riders.
Roads and
Ports Minister Tim Pallas today released a public discussion paper regarding
options for a new motorcycle licensing system to complement the existing Graduated
Licensing System for drivers.
“We understand Victorians
are concerned about road safety, which is why the Brumby Labor Government is
continually looking at ways to drive down the road toll,” Mr Pallas said.
“The Graduated licensing for motorcyclists
discussion paper looks at key concerns in areas including the number and
duration of licence phases, testing, training and skill development, restrictions
and sanctions.
“It is
important we have this discussion with motorcyclists and the wider community
about the best ways to improve safety and reduce the risks for riders.”
Mr Pallas
said motorcycle riding had become increasingly popular, both as a means of
transport and for recreation.
“The
growing number of motor scooter riders and commuters shows that riding a
powered two-wheeler is now a mainstream activity and no longer the sole domain
of motorcycle enthusiasts,” he said.
“However,
motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable roads users in Victoria, with novice riders being
particularly at risk. Although motorcycles account for less than four per cent
of all vehicles registered, motorcyclists comprise 14 per cent of all fatalities
and serious injuries.
“Motorcyclists
are 38 times more likely to be seriously injured in a crash than car drivers
and passengers. Tragically, in 2010 we’ve seen a significant increase in the
number of riders killed on our roads with 34 deaths – 12 more than the same
time last year.”
The Brumby
Labor Government has taken an active role in delivering a comprehensive
program, funded by the Motorcycle Safety Levy, to enhance motorcyclists’
safety.
This
program has resulted in improvements at motorcycle blackspots, education and
awareness initiatives, and better understanding of what causes motorcycle
crashes.
Mr Pallas
said the Graduated licensing for
motorcyclists paper presented options for consideration and posed questions
for motorcyclists, stakeholders and the public to consider.
“Victoria’s current
motorcycle licensing system has been in place for some time and needs to be
updated to meet the road safety needs of today’s riders,” he said.
“I encourage
all riders and the broader community interested in motorcycle safety to read
the paper and have their say on an improved motorcycle graduated licensing
system in Victoria.”
Some of
the options for consideration in the discussion paper include:
undefined·
undefinedThe introduction of a more comprehensive and
rigorous assessment of practical skills to obtain a motorcycle licence;
undefined·
undefinedA requirement for learner riders to obtain a
minimum number of hours of supervised on-road riding experience, with options
of 25, 50 or 120 hours; and
undefined·
undefinedAn automatic transmission restriction for
riders who pass the test on an automatic motorcycle (usually a scooter),
meaning those with an auto licence would not be allowed to ride a manual/geared
motorcycle until they demonstrate the necessary capabilities.
The discussion
paper is part of the Brumby Labor Government’s Powered Two Wheelers Action Plan
2009-2013 strategy released last year, which promotes safety and better
integration of motorcycles across the Victorian transport network.
Public information forums will be held across Victoria during
September and October. Details about the forums and the Graduated licensing for motorcyclists discussion paper can be found
at www.arrivealive.vic.gov.au/motorcyclegls