VicRoads survey on lane filtering

VicRoads is seeking community input on proposed new motorcycle lane filtering laws, which will come into effect on September 1, 2015 after a promise made by the ruling Labor Party when it was in opposition.

VicRoads has published 'policy principles' related to the adoption of lane filtering, which have been developed in consultation with stakeholders and various government departments. These will form the foundation for the new lane filtering laws, but VicRoads is now seeking community feedback on both the policy principles and the proposed motorcycle lane filtering model.

The Policy Principles are:
1. Currently permitted actions are not made illegal
2. Filtering be permitted only where safe for all road users
3. Motorcyclists filter in a safe manner
4. Filtering rules be clearly defined, easily understood and enforceable

A public workshop was held on June 16 to discuss how to best implement motorcycle lane filtering in Victoria, with participants expressing a strong consensus on the need for clear guidelines and effective education for all road users. However, there was a range of views on particular aspects of filtering. To help resolve these differences, VicRoads is now seeking views on the proposed filtering model and how it should be implemented.

The proposed new rules would permit all licensed motorcyclists to lane filter in Victoria where the risk to vulnerable road users is minimised. As in other jurisdictions there would be a new penalty for exceeding the permitted speed while lane filtering.

The proposed new model for motorcycle lane filtering would permit motorcycle lane filtering:
1. Between lines of traffic in the same direction; or
2. Between lines of traffic and parked vehicles;
3. For motorcycle licence holders (not motorcycle learner permit holders)
4. At speeds up to 30 km/h
5. If ‘safe to do so’
6. With a penalty for exceeding 30 km/h while filtering.

There are a number of options regarding where filtering should be allowed:
1. On all roads
2. On roads where the speed limit is greater than 40 km/h
3. On roads other than those where there is an electronic or timed 40 km/h (during those times) or there is a sign prohibiting lane filtering

Either have your say in a DISCUSSION FORUM and/or complete a SURVEY. Your feedback will be used to inform how the new motorcycle lane filtering laws are introduced. Both close on Monday, July 13, 2015.