Crucial legislation – the Motor Vehicles (Motor Bike Driver Licensing) Amendment Bill 2020 – to protect SA's most vulnerable road users and prevent further lives lost has passed the House of Assembly.
The new laws, now set to be debated in the Legislative Council, will reform the motorcycle Graduated Licensing Scheme by raising the minimum age for a learner's permit and R-Date licence (comparable to a provisional driver's licence) by two years.
Road Safety Minister Vincent Tarzia said he hoped to see the Marshall Liberal Government's important Bill progress quickly through the Legislative Council with full support from all parties.
"The Marshall Government wants to see this Bill pass Parliament as soon as possible to save lives," Minister Tarzia said.
"Tragically we have lost five motorcyclist lives on our roads this year. That is five too many.
"These incidents have horrific impacts on the family and friends of victims, our first responders who attend the crash sites and other road users.
"This reform has been carefully considered, based on recommendations from an expert report provided by the Centre for Automotive Safety Research (CASR). It is strengthened by input from key road safety stakeholders, motorcycle groups and industry representatives.
"We had to be sure the Bill struck the right balance and, most importantly, was going to make a difference for the young riders whose lives it will impact and save."
LEARNER'S PERMIT
Minimum age:
- Increase from 16 to 18.
- 17 if holding a provisional car licence.
- 16 if living in regional SA and travelling for education, work or sport.
Restrictions:
- Zero alcohol.
- No passengers.
- Prohibited from towing.
- No riding between midnight and 5am if under 25.
- Restricted to motorcycle with automatic transmission only if tested on one.
Period on learner's permit:
- Minimum 12 months in all circumstances.
R-DATE LICENCE CLASSIFICATION
Minimum age:
- Increase from 17 to 19.
Restrictions:
- Zero alcohol.
- Restricted to motorcycle with automatic transmission only if tested on one.
Period on an R-Date classification:
- 2 years.
R LICENCE CLASSIFICATION
Minimum age:
- Increase from 18 to 21.
Restrictions:
- Restricted to motorcycle with automatic transmission only if tested on one.
