Australian Road Rules – Proposed Amendments Affecting Cyclists
 

The National Transport Commission (NTC), on July 31, 2013 released the latest package of proposed amendments to the Australian Road Rules for public consultation. Submissions are being accepted up to September 4, 2013.

The proposed amendments are detailed in the Model Amendments Regulations – Australian Road Rules – Package No. 10. The proposed changes that are directly relevant to cyclists include:

Dictionary – definition of bicycle: to amend the definition to include power-assisted pedal cycles as defined under the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 (Cwlth), pursuant to recent amendments to allow for vehicles referred to as pedalecs to be regarded as bicycles and not motor vehicles.

Rule 153(4) – bicycle lanes: to clarify that road markings, and not only signs, can be used to commence or end a bicycle lane (the marking comprising a white painted bicycle symbol and the word “lane”, and including the word “end” as appropriate).

Rule 260 – stopping for a red bicycle crossing light: to clarify the operation of the bicycle crossing light rules and to ensure consistency throughout the Rules.

Rule 261 – stopping for a yellow bicycle crossing light: to clarify the operation of the bicycle crossing light rules and to ensure consistency throughout the Rules.

More details if you are interested can can be found on in my blog post. Pity no mention of safe overtaking distances.

Regards
Andrew