The Defence Motorcycle Safety Campaign, launched by the Defence Minister Dr Brendan Nelson in August 2006, has provided $2 million over three years to improve rider safety.

Defence recognises and accepts the widespread use of motorcycles for both pleasure and transport, but notes research that motorcycle riders and pillions are at a greater risk of death and serious injury than road users.

The Campaign seeks to reduce the number of deaths and injuries of Defence employees from motorcycle accidents.

The Chief of Army, with endorsement from the Minister for Defence, Chief of the Defence Force and other Chiefs of Service directed that more effective safety measures be implemented to mitigate the risks associated with riding.

The Campaign is being implemented through an OHSC project to:

• reduce motorcycle fatalities and injuries
• improve rider skills
• increase awareness of the risks inherent in riding activities
• reduce risk-taking behaviours by riders
• increase protection of Defence training investment

Defence has contracted seven of Australia's leading motorcycle training companies to conduct safety training courses at or near Defence facilities around the country.

Each of the companies routinely schedules 'public' courses which Defence employees can undertake.

In areas where there is no 'resident' Course Provider the Project Office will arrange a 'Defence Group' course.

Intermediate and Advances course are available for:

• road riders
• scooter and commuter riders
• off-road riders

Seminars:

• motorcycle basic maintenance
• roadcraft

Courses are open to all Defence scooter and motorcycle riders who hold a 'P' or full licence.

General guidelines are:

• participation is voluntary
• supervisors must afford entitled persons the opportunity to attend a course
• attendance is considered 'on duty'. Travel and/or allowances are subject to unit funding and approval
• training is available once annually
• Defence will pay the Course Provider

• Identify a Course Provider in your area.
• Contact the company and inquire about course availability and timings.

Important

If there is NO local Course Provider contact the Project Office

• Download Training Nomination form (PT076).
• Complete Parts A and B of PT076 and forward to your supervisor.
• Ensure that your contact details are accurate.
• In completing the PT076 take note of the non-applicable fields in annex A of DI(G) 55-3.

• On authorisation by supervisor fax the completed PT076 to
  (02) 6266 6242.

The project office will confirm approval to attend course and issue an Order Number by email.

• On receipt of the Order Number book a position on a course with the Course Provider.

Important

If there is NO local Course Provider contact the Project Office

Contact Details
ohsc.ridesmart@defence.gov.au

Course Providers

Frequently Asked Questions