HOW TO REport a close pass IN AUSTRALIA

WHAT IS A CLOSE PASS?

A close pass happens when a driver overtakes a person on a bike without leaving the legal minimum passing distance. The rule is simple. One metre in 60 km zones or lower, and one point five metres in higher speed zones. Reporting unsafe overtaking helps Police identify dangerous behaviour, hotspot locations, and repeat vehicles. Your report supports safer roads.

why reporting matters

Reporting a close pass strengthens safety for every person who rides.

• Each report helps Police understand where unsafe overtaking happens.
• Video reports give officers the evidence they need for enforcement.
• Reports without video still highlight patterns, and hotspot locations, building a clearer picture of risk on our roads.
• Every report adds to the evidence base that supports safer behaviour and protects other riders.

what you need

• To report a close pass you need the location, date, and time, along with any registration details of the car that was involved in the close pass.
• A short, clear description of what happened helps Police assess the behaviour.
• Video or screenshots strengthen your report, but you can still report without them.
• Police prefer unedited footage because it shows the full context.
• If you provide edited footage, always keep the unedited original file as Police may request this. 
• You will need to provide your contact details so officers can follow up if needed.

best cameras for reporting

• Choose cameras with minimal distortion or a linear lens.
• Clear number plates improve enforcement outcomes.
• Purpose built bike cameras work best for evidence.
• Cycliq Fly12, Fly6, and Garmin Varia RCT715 use suitable lenses.
• Action cameras work when set to linear mode, not wide angle.
• Avoid fisheye and 360 degree cameras, as distortion reduces evidence quality.

WHEN TO CALL POLICE DIRECTLY

STATE AND TERRITORY REPORTING GUIDES