New safety campaign targets Queensland farming’s biggest killer

The Palaszczuk Government is urging Queenslanders to be safe on quad bikes, with a new campaign shining a spotlight on the fact they are the biggest killers on Queensland farms.

Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace said she wanted everyone to think about safety before they jump on to a quad bike.

“More than 50 Queenslanders have died using quad bikes over the last 10 years, and many of these were children,” Ms Grace said.

“Some weren’t wearing helmets, some were children using adult sized bikes, and others didn’t have the right training.

“Quad bikes can be a really useful tool, and great fun too, but I don’t want any tragedies because basic safety rules are overlooked.

“The simple steps outlined in the campaign could avoid this holiday being one to remember for all the wrong reasons.”

The campaign emphasises five simple steps quad bike users can follow to make sure they come home safe.

1. Always wear a helmet. Wearing a helmet is the best way to minimise the risk of a head injury.
2. Kids on kids’ bikes. Adult-sized quad bikes are too large for kids to handle.
3. Don’t double. Doubling on a single-seat quad bike increases the risk of a roll-over.
4. Don’t overload. Heavy loads and attachments can make quad bikes unstable.
5. Quad bike training. Even the most experienced riders need to be prepared for the unexpected.

“We know these simple steps go a long way to keeping people safe on quad bikes,” Ms Grace said.

“But we also know that this campaign alone won’t tackle this issue: it’s just one part of our strategy to reduce the tragic deaths and injuries associated with these machines.

“We are also ensuring compliance with our laws, using enforcement options when those laws are ignored, educating employers, workers and families about how to use quad bikes safely, and raising awareness of the serious consequences if you don’t.

“Earlier this year we also sought community feedback on proposed new safety measures for quad bike usage under the Work Health and Safety Regulation – including mandatory helmet use, no kids allowed on adult machines, restrictions on carrying certain passengers, and training.

“We’re currently considering this feedback and looking at possible regulatory changes in 2023. We will continue to keep industry and the community informed on this process.”

Download resources or watch the adverts, which will feature on radio, print and social media, at qld.gov.au/comehomesafe.

Media contact: Kate Talbot, 0439 803 211