All road users, including cyclists are required to obey Road Safety Road Rules. Please refer to the latest iteration of the Victorian Road Rules for the complete set of rules.
Below is a summary of the key road rules for cyclists to assist in guiding you on your cycling journey.
Pedestrian road crossings
Cyclists are to dismount when approaching and using a zebra crossing (with or without flashing lights) or a children’s crossing which are otherwise known as a school crossing regardless of whether they are supervised.
Cyclists are permitted to ride across Shared User Path (SUP) crossings shown in the figure below without needing to dismount.
Image extracted from Road Design Note: Raised Safety Platforms (RSPs) - RDN 03-07
Cyclists are also permitted to ride across signalled crossings provided there are bicycle lanterns which are summarised below.
 |
Standalone bicycle lanterns allow cyclists to cross without dismounting at exclusive bicycle path crossings. |
 |
Dual pedestrian and bicycle lanterns allow cyclists to cross without dismounting from an SUP approach. |
Separated footpaths
 |
The section of a separated footpath that has been designated for pedestrians are pedestrian only. Cyclists are to remain on designated dedicated cycling pathway.
|
Shared user paths
 |
Cyclists riding on shared user paths must keep to the left unless it is impracticable to do so. Cyclists must also give way to any pedestrian on the SUP. |
Footpaths
Cyclists are permitted to ride on the footpath if they:
- are under the age of 13
- are accompanying another rider under the age of 13
- are over the age of 18 and carrying a child in a bicycle baby seat
- Have a medical certificate
Cyclists are not permitted to ride on footpaths or roads that have a no bicycles sign.
Other key things to note
- People on bicycles, scooters or other electric mobility devices must not become a hazard by riding into the path of a pedestrian or another cyclist.
- The wearing of an approved Australian Standards bicycle helmet is mandatory for riding a bicycle, scooter or other electric mobility device.
- Bicycles must have a functioning bell, horn, or warning device.
- When riding a bicycle at night or in conditions resulting in reduced visibility, you must ensure that your bicycle is fitted with:
-
A flashing or steady white light that is clearly visible for at least 200 metres from the front of the bicycle.
-
A flashing or steady red light that is clearly visible for at least 200 metres from the rear of the bicycle.
-
A red reflector that is clearly visible for at least 50 metres from the rear of the bicycle.