Milestones in motorcycle safety – Australia 1976 – 2009.

This article highlights the author’s view of some of the major events that shaped motorcycle safety in Australia from the mid 1970’s to the present. Prior to 1980 little had been done for motorcycle safety in Australia. Compulsory wearing of safety helmets was introduced in 1967 and 250-260cc engine restrictions in 1979. Motorcycle licence tests consisted of little more than 4 motorcycle questions added to the car knowledge test and perhaps a brief ride watched by the local police officer. In the late 1970s the concept of rider training was born and gradually introduced over the next decade. Rider training initiated government action on motorcycle safety and became a significant milestone for Australian motorcyclists.