Novice motorcycle riders in NSW will have to wear protective gear as of July 1 as new safety changes start to kick in.
The state government is saying the motorcycle safety reforms are the biggest in nearly 20 years with a first tranche of changes due to take effect.
The changes are being made to the Motorcycle Graduated Licensing Scheme to improve rider safety and visibility on NSW roads.
The government says that from July 1, all NSW learner, provisional P1 and P2 riders will have to wear gloves while riding while learner riders will need to wear a high visibility vest/jacket.
Other changes including expanding lessons, extending pre-learner courses, group on-road coaching and an option for learners to plan their own trips.
MOTORCYCLE ROAD TOLL
Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison says the move is designed to lower the death toll for novice riders on NSW roads.
“We are implementing these life-saving reforms to help lower the road safety risks of one of our most vulnerable road users – novice motorcyclists,” she says.
“We know the data shows learner and novice riders are over-represented in road trauma compared to fully licenced riders.”
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Government data says that in 20 years, new motorcycle licences have risen by more than 65% to over 690,000; every year, 27,000 learner licences are issued with 40% of those to riders aged under 25 years.
Data also shows the death roll for riders aged 16-25 years on NSW roads rose from 12 in 2023 to 17 in 2024 and 21 in 2025; three young riders have died in NSW in 2026 so far this year.
Novice rider deaths (including those with learner or provisional licences) rose from nine in 2023 to 12 in 2024 and 12 in 2025.
“Protective gear can save your life and lower your risk of injury, with motorcycle gloves almost halving the risk of hand and wrist injuries while high-vis vests make riders easier to see,” Aitchson says.
“I am urging all novice motorcyclists to gear up ahead of July. If you’re not sure what to buy visit motocap.com.au for more information.
“These changes are just the start of our safety reforms.
“We have listened to the experts and closely examined what the statistics show us,” she says.
“We will continue our plans to roll out other lifesaving changes including an increase in training and education for riders.”
OTHER LAW CHANGES
• New online learning modules and knowledge testing in an expansion of theory requirements.
• Extending the pre-learner course and increasing training with experienced instructors.
• Group on-road coaching and assessment to bring NSW into line with other states.
• Introduce an optional learning journal to help novice riders plan rides suited to their skill level.
The rollout of these reforms will be staged over several years to give time for the industry to liaise with government and trainers to prepare for the changes.
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