The Minns Labor Government is continuing its work to roll out the most significant motorcycle safety reforms in nearly 20 years, with the first tranche of changes set to take effect later this year.
From 1 July all NSW learner, provisional P1 and provisional P2 riders will be subject to a new licensing condition which requires them to wear approved motorcycle gloves while riding, while learner riders will also be required to wear a high visibility vest or jacket.
The new requirements, part of significant reforms to the Motorcycle Graduated Licensing Scheme, have been introduced to improve rider safety and visibility on NSW roads.
Over the past 20 years, the number of motorcycle licences issued in NSW has risen by more than 65 per cent to over 690,000. Each year, around 27,000 learner licences are issued, with approximately 40 per cent of those held by riders under 25.
The number of young motorcycle riders aged 16-25 years who died on NSW roads increased from 12 in 2023 to 17 in 2024 and 21 in 2025. Currently preliminary numbers show three young motorcycle riders have lost their lives on NSW roads so far this year.
Novice motorcycle rider deaths, which includes those with learner or provisional licences, also increased from nine in 2023 to 12 in 2024 and 12 in 2025.
To further strengthen novice rider safety, the Minns Labor Government has also committed to:
- New online learning modules and knowledge testing, to expand theory requirements
- Extended pre-learner course, increasing training with experienced riding instructors, allowing for more and improved learning outcomes and skill development.
- Group on-road coaching and assessment, bringing NSW into line with best practice in other states
- Introducing an optional learning journal to support novice riders in planning rides appropriate to their skill level and encouraging self-reflection.
The rollout of these reforms will be staged over multiple years to allow for system development, detailed program design, industry-wide communication, and preparation of training providers to deliver the enhanced pathway.
For further information, visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/driver-and-rider-licences/rider-licences/gear-requirements-for-learner-and-provisional-riders.
Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison said:
“The Minns Labor Government is committed to reducing the number of deaths on our 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.
“We know the data shows learner and novice riders are over-represented in road trauma compared to fully licenced riders.
“The introduction from 1 July of the requirement that all novice riders must wear motorcycle gloves and learners must also wear a high-vis vest or jacket will help increase safety for our inexperienced riders.
“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.
“I am urging all novice motorcyclists to gear up ahead of July – visit a local store to get your gloves and an approved vest or jacket. 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.
“We will continue our plans to roll out other lifesaving changes including an increase in training and education for riders.”