Fact Sheets

Cycling Safety in Australia

Key Facts

• Cyclist Fatalities: On average, 45 cyclists lose their lives on Australian roads annually (BITRE, 2023).
• Cycling Injuries: Over 8,500 cyclists sustain injuries each year due to collisions, many resulting in long-term disabilities (BITRE, 2023).
• High-Risk Factors: 
• Approximately 60% of cycling fatalities occur in urban areas (Australian Transport Safety Bureau, 2022).
• Intersections account for nearly 40% of all cycling incidents (Transport for NSW, 2022).
• Lack of dedicated cycling infrastructure significantly increases risk, with protected infrastructure reducing collisions by up to 90% (Monash University Accident Research Centre, 2021).

Vulnerable Groups

• Children and elderly cyclists experience disproportionately high rates of injury and fatality (Queensland University of Technology, 2021).

Driver Responsibility

• Approximately 80% of collisions between motorists and cyclists involve a driver fault or violation, including failure to yield, speeding, or driver distraction (Centre for Accident Research & Road Safety – Queensland, 2020).

"A Metre Matters" Legislation

Overview

"A Metre Matters" mandates a minimum passing distance of:

• 1 metre in speed zones of 60 km/h or lower.
• 1.5 metres in zones exceeding 60 km/h.

Impact Analysis

• States implementing "A Metre Matters" have reported reduced collision rates between cyclists and motorists (University of Adelaide, Centre for Automotive Safety Research, 2022).
• Public awareness campaigns linked to the legislation have significantly improved driver awareness and behaviour towards cyclists (Transport Accident Commission, 2022).

Research Highlights

Visibility and Infrastructure

• Enhanced visibility measures, such as mandatory rear lights and reflective clothing, significantly reduce collision rates (CARRS-Q, 2021).
• Dedicated and protected cycling infrastructure dramatically reduces cycling injuries and fatalities (Infrastructure Australia, 2022).

Behavioural Insights

• Driver violations such as speeding, failing to yield, and distraction remain significant contributors to cycling-related incidents (Transport for NSW, Road Safety Report, 2021).
• Educational campaigns targeting behavioural change in motorists and cyclists significantly reduce road trauma (Victorian Transport Accident Commission, 2021).