NSW cyclists to rally against new cycle laws

Bicycle Network is urging bike riders from across New South Wales to unite and rally against the state government’s plan to introduce mandatory ID and dramatically increase fines for bike riders.

Cyclists in NSW are unhappy with new laws enacted by the Government (AAP) Source: AAP

The public rally against the NSW government’s new and prohibitive cycling laws is set to be held in Martin Place at 7:30am on Thursday 18 February – the first week of parliament for the new year.

Bicycle Network CEO Craig Richards said that the rally will send a clear message to the NSW Government that these harsh new laws are not only a barrier to bike riding, but will also set NSW back decades.

“Bike riders from across the state are sick of being treated with contempt by their government. This rally will send a strong statement that we won’t be bullied and will fight for our right to ride with freedom,” said Mr Richards.

“Whether you ride to work, school, for exercise or even to the shops, mandatory ID and exorbitant fine increases will affect everyone who loves to ride, so it’s important that we come together as a community and take a united stand.”

Bicycle Network’s aim is to make bike riding easier for everyone, and with more than 50,000 members, is Australia’s largest cycling advocacy group.

Mr Richards believes the motives behind the new laws should be questioned, as there have been no statistics or evidence provided to show that the changes will improve safety for road users.

“It seems that mandatory photo ID really is a de-facto bike licence – something that Roads Minister Duncan Gay had failed to introduce in the past. NSW is planning to stand alone as the only place in the world with compulsory ID for riders,” said Mr Richards.

“There have also been no increases in bike infringements in recent years, so why have some fines gone from $71 to $425? It seems that as if stopping people from riding isn’t enough, the state government is also trying to fleece money off cyclists.”

Those who cannot attend the rally are urged to take action by contacting Premier Mike Baird, Roads Minister Duncan Gay, their local MP or voicing their concerns on social media using #rideIDfree.