Older drivers Australia : A deadly car accident in Melbourne involving a 91-year-old driver has reignited the debate over elderly drivers on Australian roads.
According to police, the elderly motorist allegedly lost control of a Toyota Yaris, resulting in the death of a pedestrian and serious injuries to two others, including a toddler.
While some Australian states and territories mandate regular medical evaluations and driving tests for older drivers to retain their licences, Victoria currently does not have such requirements.
Elderly Drivers and Road Safety: How Australia Regulates Senior Motorists by State
In Queensland, for instance, senior drivers can face a $161 fine if they’re caught driving without proof of having completed the necessary medical examinations.
Elsewhere, some states and territories urge older drivers to self-evaluate their driving capabilities as they grow older.
Here’s a comprehensive look at how each state and territory handles regulations for older drivers.
Rules for older drivers by state and territory
New South Wales
Starting at age 75, all drivers are required to undergo an annual medical assessment to determine their fitness to drive.
If recommended by a doctor, they must also complete an older driver or rider test.
Drivers holding a multi-combination (MC) licence are required to take this practical test every year.
The assessment, lasting 15–20 minutes, evaluates the driver’s ability to perform safely and consistently behind the wheel.
From age 80, the yearly medical assessment remains mandatory for all drivers, with the older driver or rider test required if advised by a medical professional.
Those with a heavy vehicle licence (classes LR, MR, HR, HC) or an MC licence must continue to take the older driver or rider test annually.
At age 85, all drivers must still undergo an annual medical fitness check. In addition, drivers with a car or rider
unrestricted licence must complete the older driver or rider test every two years, while heavy vehicle and MC licence holders are required to do so each year.
Queensland
From the age of 75, all drivers are required to visit a doctor each year for an assessment of their medical fitness to drive and must carry a valid medical certificate while driving.
Failing to carry a medical certificate can result in a $161 fine.
Drivers with a medical condition that could affect their ability to drive must also submit their medical certificate to Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads.
Depending on the condition, drivers may be issued a conditional licence, or their licence may be suspended or cancelled if it’s deemed unsafe for them to continue driving.
Victoria
Starting at age 75, drivers in Victoria can only renew their licence every three years, instead of the usual three or ten-year intervals.
There are no additional age-specific regulations.
However, any driver with a permanent or long-term illness, disability, medical condition, or injury is required to notify Transport Victoria’s Medical Review team.
Based on the condition, the driver may be asked to undergo a medical assessment, driving test, or other evaluation.
If deemed unfit to drive, restrictions may be placed on their licence, or it may be suspended or cancelled.
Australian Capital Territory
From the age of 70, drivers holding heavy vehicle licences (class MR and above) are required to complete an annual medical examination.
Public vehicle licence holders must also undergo a yearly medical check and pass a driving assessment specific to the type of vehicle they operate, such as a taxi or bus.
Additionally, all drivers aged 75 and over must have an annual medical assessment from their doctor to confirm they are fit to drive.
Tasmania
Older drivers are encouraged to routinely evaluate their own driving fitness.
Drivers with a medical condition or disability that could impact their ability to drive safely may be asked to complete regular medical assessments and/or driving tests.
Depending on the results, specific conditions may be added to their licence.
Northern Territory
Older drivers are encouraged to stay mindful of any changes that might impact their driving skills.
All drivers are required to take a vision test every five years.
If a driver has a medical condition or disability that could affect their driving, they may be asked to complete a medical assessment to determine their fitness to drive.
Based on the outcome, they may have conditions placed on their licence, or their licence could be suspended or cancelled.
South Australia
From age 70, drivers with a licence for vehicles other than a car (such as heavy vehicles or motorbikes) must complete a medical assessment at each renewal.
Starting at age 75, car (class “C”) licence holders without any medical conditions will receive a compulsory annual self-assessment form by mail to evaluate their fitness to drive.
At age 85, those holding licences for non-car vehicles must pass a practical driving test every year.
Additionally, any driver may be required to undergo a practical driving assessment if recommended by their doctor.
Western Australia
Starting at age 80, drivers must have an annual medical assessment to renew their licence, and a doctor might also require them to take a practical driving test.
Furthermore, beginning at age 85, drivers holding a licence for a Light Rigid (LR) class or higher vehicle are required to complete a practical driving assessment each year.
Leave a Reply