New safety regulations for motorcycle riders in New South Wales (NSW) commence on Wednesday, requiring learner and provisional license holders to wear high-visibility vests or jackets and gloves meeting European safety standards. Failure to comply with the new road rule could result in a $339 fine.
The changes are part of an overhaul to the Motorcycle Graduated Licensing Scheme, affecting up to 27,000 motorists. Transport for NSW Secretary Josh Murray stated the new requirements are designed to protect novice motorcyclists, who are disproportionately represented in road trauma statistics. "We know gloves can almost halve the risk of hand and wrist injuries, and high‑vis gear makes riders far easier for others to see," Murray said.
These reforms are the first phase of broader enhancements aimed at improving protective gear use, visibility, and training for new riders. NSW Premier Chris Minns described the changes as the most significant motorcycle safety reforms in nearly two decades.
Data indicates a rise in motorcycle fatalities among young and beginner riders in NSW. The number of riders aged 16-25 who died on NSW roads increased from 12 in 2023 to 17 in 2024 and 21 in 2025. Deaths among beginner riders, those on learner or provisional licenses, rose from nine in 2023 to 12 in both 2024 and 2025. According to NSW government figures, motorcyclists are 34 times more likely to die in a crash compared to other road users. Over the past 20 years, NSW has seen a more than 65 percent increase in issued motorcycle licenses, with over 690,000 issued.
Further changes to the licensing scheme are planned over the next few years, including new learning modules, knowledge testing, and an extended pre-learner course. Group on-road coaching and assessment, along with an optional learning journal to aid novice riders in planning rides suited to their skill level, will also be introduced.