Bicycle NSW was pleased to learn that Victorians can anticipate an investment in safer bike riding.
Cycling Improvements
Minister for Roads and Road Safety the Hon Ben Carroll MP announced a $13 million dollar investment in 100 kilometres of pop-up bike lanes and improved cycling routes. These are to help with COVID-safe travel, similar to NSW pop-ups.
Safe Passing Legislation
Next year Victoria will also join the rest of Australia in implementing safe passing laws to require drivers on roads with speed limits up to 60km/h to leave at least one metre when passing a cyclist, and 1.5 metres on roads with speed limits above 60km/h. This is great news for Victorians, and any of Bicycle NSW members intending to visit.
In many ways Victoria has led NSW on the development of safe cycleways and rail trails, so it didn’t make sense for theirs to be the only state without safe passing laws. Together with pop-up cycleways, this should help more people stay COVID-safe as they travel.
“We’re really pleased by this announcement, and the opportunity it creates for more bike riders to play their part in Victoria’s recovery from COVID,” said Bicycle NSW General Manager of Public Affairs, Bastien Wallace.
“Well done to the Amy Gillett Foundation and the advocates for change in Victoria,” said Bastien.
We encourage Bicycle NSW members living on the border with Victoria, or who visit the area to share what this announcement means for your ride, and tag in your nearest Victorian MP, Ben Carrol MP or Premier Dan Andrews.
