Wellbeing

Riding bikes and scooters to school

Its great to see so many students riding their bikes and scooters to school. However it does scare me the number of students who do not wear a helmet while riding to school. Helmets serve a very important purpose of protecting our skull which protects our brain.

In Victoria, it is mandatory for all cyclists to wear an approved and securely fastened helmet, complying with the AS/NZS 2063 standard. The law applies everywhere, including roads, bike paths, and footpaths, and you can be fined for not wearing one. Exemptions are available for specific medical or religious reasons and must be documented.

What you need to know 

• Helmet requirement: You must wear a helmet that is securely fitted and fastened. 

   

• Approved standard: The helmet must meet the Australian/New Zealand standard AS/NZS 2063. 

• Passengers: Any passengers you have on your bicycle must also wear a helmet. 

   

• Exemptions: Written exemptions can be granted by VicRoads for medical or religious reasons, such as a medical certificate for a short-term condition or proof for religious headdress. 

   

• Penalties: Police can stop you and issue a fine for not wearing a helmet. Fines can range from $231to $925.