The Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) has launched a postal campaign reminding motorcycle riders across the State about upcoming changes to licensing rules.
Announcing the campaign, Minister for Road Safety, Vincent Tarzia said 11,963 young and novice motorcycle riders are to be reminded about crucial changes to the motorcycle Graduated Licensing Scheme (GLS), which would come into effect from 22 November.
Mr Tarzia said the enhanced GLS would ensure riders graduated through a comprehensive licensing system that boosted road skills – the first upgrade to the GLS since 2014.
“We’re asking motorcycle riders who receive the letter to read and become familiar with the important information ahead of the changes on 22 November,” Mr Tarzia said.
He said the GLS reform was based on recommendations from an expert report provided by the Centre for Automotive Safety Research (CASR) and was strengthened by input from key road safety stakeholders, motorcycle groups and industry representatives.
“Motorcycle riders are some of our most vulnerable roads users,” the Minister said.
“Tragically, 15 people (all male) have lost their lives on a motorbike this year.
“Our crucial changes – such as raising the minimum age for a learner’s permit and R-Date licence (comparable to a provisional driver’s licence) by two years – are needed to kerb this carnage.”
Mr tarsia said the changes for learners under the new GLS include a minimum age increase from 16 to 18 – 17 if holding a provisional car licence and 16 if living in regional SA and travelling for education, work or sport; restrictions to zero alcohol; no passengers; prohibited from towing; no riding between midnight and 5am if under 25; and restricted to a motorcycle with automatic transmission only if tested on one.
Further information about the new GLS can be accessed at this PS News link.
