Reforms to improve road safety for over-85 drivers

Roads Minister Eric Roozendaal announced on 3 April 2008, reforms to the licensing system for older motorists which will keep over-85 drivers safe on NSW roads.

The key reforms are:

• Annual medical check-up from the age of 75 to pick up issues like deteriorating eyesight and dementia earlier
• Redesigning the over-85 driving test and making it more practical, with testing every two years
• Introduction of the option of driving assessment through accredited driver training organisations like the NRMA and the Australian Driver Trainers Association
• Maintaining modified licence options for over-85 drivers
• The establishment of an Older Drivers Implementation Panel to introduce reforms.

The NSW Government will establish an Older Drivers Implementation Group to introduce the reforms through the RTA in consultation with the NSW Centre for Road Safety, the NSW Police Force, the Council on the Ageing, the NRMA, the Australian Medical Association and the Australian Driver Trainers Association.

The NSW Government will monitor the reforms and will be updated regularly by the implementation group.