July 29, 2015
Queenslanders may find it harder to get a motorcycle licence under new rules being considered to reduce bike-related deaths.
There have been 32 motorcycle-related deaths in Queensland this year, a rise of 60 per cent over the same period last year.
The spike had highlighted the need to reform the motorcycle licensing system, Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said.
Mr Bailey said new riders needed to have a robust level of training and competency before they progressed to an open licence.
“The jump in motorcycle deaths this year is unacceptable and something must be done,” he said
“Motorcycle licensing and safety can always be improved.”
At present, car drivers who want a motorbike learner licence do not have to sit a practical test.
There is also no minimum period before learners can take the practical test for a restricted licence.
And riders can graduate from the restricted licence, which has a zero-alcohol and no-passenger requirement, to an unrestricted licence in one year.
The government are inviting Queenslanders to have their say on the proposed changes.
A discussion paper and online survey are available on the Get Involved website
Possible changes include:
- The introduction of an off-road, practical pre-learner training and assessment course
- A minimum period for holding a motorcycle learner licence; and …
- An evaluation of the way riders progress from a restricted to an unrestricted licence
“We want to ensure novice riders are better prepared for riding on the road and are provided with more opportunities for skill development before moving to an unrestricted licence,” Mr Bailey said.
“Off-road practical training and assessment would ensure new riders gain basic riding knowledge and motorcycle handling skills in a safe environment.
“A minimum learner licence period would encourage further skill development, and ensure riders accumulate on-road riding experience before progressing to a provisional or open licence.”
Mr Bailey said an extension to the restricted licence period would also be considered, and also whether additional assessment should be required to progress to an unrestricted licence.
“We’ll also consider making changes to the Q-Ride training and assessment course, including what components require greater focus and if there’s benefits in standardising its delivery.
“This review of Queensland’s motorcycle licensing system will play an important role in improving road safety.”
