Learner motorcycle riders across Australia face substantial fines ranging from $200 to over $500 for carrying passengers, with penalties varying significantly between states and territories.
New motorcycle riders in Australia are being hit with increasingly steep fines for breaking passenger restrictions, highlighting the serious safety concerns authorities have about inexperienced riders taking on additional responsibilities.
The Current Penalty Landscape
Across most Australian states and territories, learner motorcycle riders are strictly prohibited from carrying pillion passengers, with only limited exceptions in some jurisdictions. The penalties for breaching these rules can be financially painful for young riders already spending considerable money on training and equipment.
In the ACT, riders face a $203 fine for carrying more than one passenger or carrying a passenger aged under 8, while NSW imposes a $349 fine and 3 demerit points for similar offences. Queensland riders can expect a $400 fine and 3 demerit points, making it one of the steeper penalties nationwide.
| State/Territory | Fine Amount | Demerit Points | Passenger Rules |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | $349 | 3 | No passengers |
| VIC | Varies | 3-4 | No passengers |
| QLD | $400 | 3 | No passengers |
| ACT | $203 | – | No passengers (except special circumstances) |
| SA | Up to $1,250 | – | No passengers |
| WA | Varies | 4 | Only licensed supervisor |
| TAS | Varies | 4 | Only licensed supervisor |
| NT | Varies | 5 | No passengers |
State-by-State Variations
The rules aren’t uniform across Australia, creating confusion for riders who travel interstate. While most states completely prohibit pillion passengers for learners, Western Australia and Tasmania allow supervised passengers – but only if they’re a qualified supervising driver.
Victoria stands out by requiring all learner motorcycle riders to wear high-visibility vests or jackets, adding another layer of compliance that riders must navigate.
South Australia takes a particularly strict approach, with maximum penalties reaching $1,250 for carrying passengers, reflecting the state’s serious stance on motorcycle safety.
Why These Rules Exist
The passenger restrictions aren’t arbitrary bureaucracy – they’re based on solid safety research. Motorcycle riding requires intense concentration and skill development, particularly during the learning phase. Adding a passenger significantly increases the bike’s weight distribution, affects braking distances, and adds psychological pressure on inexperienced riders.
Most states also impose power-to-weight ratio restrictions, typically limiting learners to motorcycles not exceeding 150kW per tonne, further emphasising the graduated approach to motorcycle licensing.
Enforcement and Consequences
For learner and provisional licence holders, accumulating 4 or more demerit points can result in licence suspension for at least six months. This makes passenger violations particularly serious, as they can quickly push new riders over their demerit point threshold.
Police are increasingly vigilant about these violations, particularly in areas known for recreational riding. The combination of higher fines and the risk of licence suspension means the financial and practical consequences extend far beyond the initial penalty.
2025 Fine Increases
Following Australia’s worst road toll figures in 15 years, various states have increased fines and penalties from July 1, 2025, with adjustments ranging from 3.2% to 3.5% to reflect changes in the Consumer Price Index.
These increases mean that what might have been a manageable fine for young riders is now a significant financial burden, particularly when combined with the costs of motorcycle training, licensing, and equipment.
The Way Forward
For learner motorcycle riders, the message is clear: passenger restrictions are non-negotiable. The combination of safety risks, substantial fines, and potential licence suspension makes compliance essential.
Experienced riders often recommend that learners focus entirely on developing their own skills before considering passenger responsibilities. Once riders progress to their provisional licence, passenger rules typically remain in place for the first 12 months, reinforcing the importance of gradual skill development.
The current penalty system reflects Australia’s commitment to reducing motorcycle fatalities and serious injuries. While the fines might seem steep, they’re designed to encourage safe riding practices during the most vulnerable period of a rider’s development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can learner motorcycle riders ever carry passengers in Australia? A: In most states, learner riders cannot carry passengers at all. Western Australia and Tasmania allow qualified supervising drivers as passengers, while some states permit passengers in sidecars only. Check your specific state’s regulations.
Q: What happens if I’m caught carrying a passenger as a learner rider? A: Penalties vary by state but typically include fines ranging from $200-$500 plus demerit points. Some states like South Australia impose fines up to $1,250. You may also face licence suspension if you accumulate too many demerit points.
Q: Do these passenger restrictions apply to motorcycle riders with sidecars? A: Generally, passengers in properly attached sidecars are permitted even for learner riders, but the passenger must still wear appropriate safety equipment including helmets.
Q: How long do passenger restrictions last after getting my learner permit? A: Restrictions typically continue through the provisional licence period. Most states prohibit passengers for P1 licence holders (first 12 months of provisional licensing), with full passenger privileges only available once you reach your full motorcycle licence.
Q: Are the fines the same across all Australian states? A: No, fines vary significantly between states and territories. NSW charges $349, Queensland $400, while South Australia can impose penalties up to $1,250. Always check your local state regulations for current penalty amounts.
