If you’ve ever seen anyone riding a scooter, e-bike or even a big Harley Davidson with an open-face helmet and wondered, “how is that legal?”, then you are not alone.
- Australia does not have a law prohibiting the wearing of open-face helmets
- But all helmets must meet Australian/New Zealand or European standards
- There are fines for using a helmet incorrectly or not wearing a helmet
However, the reality is that as long as the helmet meets certain specific requirements, it is legal to wear an open-face helmet while riding a motorcycle or other outdoor equipment on the road.
There are no specific laws in Australia that exclude different types of helmets, but it should be noted that helmets used in Australia must comply with Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 1698:2006 Protective Helmets protection for vehicle users and/or Australians Standard (AS) 1698:1988, Helmets for vehicle users.
Until recently, those were the only options, but now riders can buy a European helmet, as long as it complies with Regulation No. 22 of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE22). .05 or UNECE22.06), uniform regulations relating to the approval of helmets and protective face shields for drivers and passengers of motorbikes and mopeds.
If you’re curious, all helmets meet the strict legal requirements outlined above for protection, impact resistance, penetration and retention in the event of a crash, and all helmets in Australia do. Must have chin strap.
Legal helmets will have a certification mark, stitched label or sticker to indicate compliance with the above standards. For European helmets, it will usually be sewn into the helmet retention system.
It is also important to note that in some cases, colored visors on full-face helmets may not be permitted for use on the road. You should check with your state or territory government if you are unclear about the law.
It is a nationwide legal requirement for all occupants of motorbikes, mopeds, scooters or other vehicles to wear helmets.
Fines apply for riding without a helmet, for both the driver and any passengers on the motorbike. Financial penalties vary from $100 to $1626, depending on the jurisdiction, and up to nine demerit points can also apply.
You can also be fined if you wear a helmet that is not up to standard or has been damaged.
Not intended as legal advice. Check with the relevant roads authority in your state or territory.
