Minimum Passing Distance
Minimum passing distance laws will improve bicycle safety and bring Victoria into line with other states. This will make the passing distance rules clear and consistent across state lines for all road users.
Recently, we have seen unprecedented changes to the way we live, including the way we travel and get around every day. More people are getting on their bikes than ever before because it’s easy, convenient and a fast way to get around.
We need to do more to make our road network safer for people who ride bicycles as too many have been seriously injured or killed.
Victoria already has advice in place about leaving safe distances when passing bicycles – and motorists overwhelmingly comply. These advisory safe passing distances have now been made law.
People riding bicycles are some of our most vulnerable, unprotected road users, and we all have a responsibility to look out for each other and share the roads safely.
Something as simple as giving space can make all the difference in ensuring we can all get home safely, which is why the State Government will introduce minimum passing distance rules for drivers passing bicycle riders.
Minimum Passing Distance Rules support plans to increase active transport through the delivery of the Victorian Cycling Strategy 2018 - 2028 and including 250 kilometres of active transport infrastructure.
Announced last year and taking effect on 26 April 2021, the rule makes it law for motorists to give people riding bicycles at least one metre clearance when overtaking on roads with speed limits up to 60km/h, and 1.5 metres on roads with speed limits above 60km/h.
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