Thousands of novice motorcyclists in NSW are about to face tougher safety requirements, with sweeping new rules set to take effect in just weeks as authorities respond to mounting concerns about rider deaths and serious injuries.

From July 1, learner riders will be required to wear high-visibility vests or jackets, while protective gloves meeting strict European safety standards will become compulsory for both learner and provisional riders, including P1 and P2 licence holders.

The reforms are part of what the NSW Government described as the most significant motorcycle safety shake-up in nearly 20 years, following growing alarm about the state’s motorcycle road toll.

Officials said the changes are focused on improving visibility and reducing the severity of injuries among inexperienced riders, who are considered among the most vulnerable road users.

“Learner riders must wear an approved high-visibility (hi-vis) vest or jacket when riding,” the government said in a statement.

“This makes it easier for other road users to see you, reducing the risk of a crash.”

Under the new rules, high-visibility clothing must meet approved Australian or international standards.

Authorities believe the measures will make novice riders more noticeable in traffic and better protected if a crash occurs.

The reforms follow the 2025 NSW Motorcycle Safety Roundtable, which brought together more than 70 riders, trainers, academics and safety experts amid rising concern about motorcycle fatalities and serious injuries on state roads.