Australia’s Updated Bicycle
Helmet Safety Standard

Complying with the mandatory standard

New mandatory safety standard for bicycle helmets in Australia. Effective March 22, 2024 with a 18-month transitional period.

Summary

The mandatory standard for bicycle helmets, updated on March 22, 2024, applies to products designed to protect a cyclist’s head during impact. It covers helmets worn while cycling, as well as those used with other wheeled recreational devices. Suppliers have until September 21, 2025, to comply with the new standard, which includes options to align with voluntary Australian and overseas standards. Suppliers must conduct product testing through specialized laboratories and provide clear instructions for helmet use.

Applicable Products

A bicycle helmet provides crucial head protection during impacts, comprising a shell, liner, and retention strap. It’s essential for riding bicycle and other wheeled recreational devices. The standard does not cover downhill or BMX racing helmets, toy helmets, motorcycle helmets, or helmets for non-bicycle wheeled devices.

New Standard Details

Effective from March 22, 2024, with a 18-month transition period until September 21, 2025. Under the new mandatory standard, suppliers can choose to comply with one of the 6 listed voluntary Australian and overseas standards listed below.

  • US Consumer Product Safety Commission standard US CPSC 16 C.F.R. Part 1203 Safety Standard for Bicycle Helmets
  • American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) International standard F1447-18 Standard Specification for Helmets Used in Recreational Bicycling or Roller Skating
  • Snell standard B-95 1995 Bicycle Helmet Standard, 1998 revision, Standard for Protective Headgear for Use in Bicycling.
  • Australian Standard AS/NZS 2063:2020 – Helmets for use on bicycles and wheeled recreational devices
  • Australian Standard AS/NZS 2063:2008 – Bicycle Helmets
  • European standard EN 1078:2012+A1:2012 Helmets for pedal cyclists and for user of skateboards and roller skates

Learn more

Read more information about the new mandatory safety standard for bicycle helmets in Australia.

Product Safety Australia

Explanatory Statement

About ACT Lab

ACT Lab is an ISO/IEC 17025 independent third-party accredited laboratory conducting consumer product safety and compliance testing. Specialties include mechanical and chemical testing of bicycles, bicycle components, e-bicycles and accessories, helmets and head protection, scooters, sporting goods, children’s products, toys, outdoor industry products and more. Founded in 2008 with operations in USA, China, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Czech Republic, ACT Lab allows customers to deliver safer, more reliable products more effectively and consistently to market. For more information, please visit act-lab.com.

About COTECNA

COTECNA is a leading provider of testing, inspection, and certification services. We offer solutions to facilitate trade and make supply chains safer and more efficient for our clients. Our trusted network of professionals and certified laboratories provide expertise across five key sectors: government & trade solutions, agriculture, food safety, minerals & metals, and consumer goods & retail. Founded in Switzerland in 1974, COTECNA started off as a family business and has now grown to become a world-class international player with over 5,000 employees in more than 100 offices across approximately 50 countries.  For more information, please visit cotecna.com.