The statistics for quad bike accidents make for grim reading with NSW Safe Work reporting that since 2020, five families lost a loved one from quad bike rollovers in NSW alone.
There have been more than 280 quad bike fatalities in Australia since 2001.
And then there are the injuries from accidents where the operators and or their passengers survive a roll-over. How many times have we reported on such events often requiring the attendance of the rescue helicopter service due to the severity of the injury.
To address this serious safety issue the Federal government had made rollover protection devices compulsory. Despite strong manufacturer backlash, including a decision by Honda it was quitting the quad bike market and concentrating on four-by-fours, from October 11, 2021, all new and second-hand imported utility quad bikes must be sold with a pre-fitted roll bar.
NSW Better Regulation and Innovation Minister Kevin Anderson said funding will be extended until 2023 and that the $2000 rebates are available for "operator protective devices (roll bars), helmets, drones, upgrades to safer side-by-side vehicles, and free quad bike and side-by-side vehicle training was on offer".
Since the program started almost 1000 roll bars have been installed, over 750 helmets purchased, and over 100 drones acquired.
"Over 280 people have been killed on quad bikes in Australia in the last 20 years. It is crucial that farmers and farm workers embrace the upcoming Australia-wide changes to improve the safety of quad bikes and that we as a Government communicate this message effectively," Mr Anderson said.
SafeWork NSW is offering businesses the chance to apply for safety rebates. Businesses will be eligible to apply for a maximum of $2000 per ABN:
- $2000 to buy a Side-by-Side Vehicle (SSV)
- $600 for each roll bar (OPD), Quadbar Flexi or ATV Life Guard
- $500 for one drone
- $90 for each helmet
Workers will get a $90 rebate towards the purchase of a compliant helmet.
Louise Nichols
From cattle to coal. Once a specialist agriculture writer today its about community, in particular, the Upper Hunter. I have lived and worked in the region for more than 30 years. Land use issues and the future direction of our region. But you cannot take ag out of the picture - our food and how we grow it is the basis of all life. Covering the Hunter and Mid North Coast rural issues is now part of my role with ACM.
From cattle to coal. Once a specialist agriculture writer today its about community, in particular, the Upper Hunter. I have lived and worked in the region for more than 30 years. Land use issues and the future direction of our region. But you cannot take ag out of the picture - our food and how we grow it is the basis of all life. Covering the Hunter and Mid North Coast rural issues is now part of my role with ACM.
