Bicycle helmets guide

About bicycle helmets

A bike helmet protects a cyclist’s head during impact. Helmets reduce the likelihood of injury in the event of an accident.

Helmets have a:

Cyclists may suffer death or serious injury in the event of an accident if the bike helmet they are wearing is:

Death or serious injury can happen if the bike helmet doesn’t fit correctly or doesn’t protect the head.

So that bike helmets are safe for cyclists, there’s a mandatory safety standard that suppliers and retailers must comply with.

Buying a bicycle helmet that complies with the bicycle helmets mandatory standard means it’s designed and constructed to reduce the risk of injury.

Choose the right helmet for the right activity. Different sports or activities need different types of helmets. For example, bike helmets are generally designed for riding bikes.
Check the helmet fits properly. It should be comfortable, snug and level on your head. It should not tilt back, forward or move from side to side.

Always wear a helmet when riding bikes.
Make sure the chin strap is securely buckled so that the helmet doesn't move while riding, or during a fall or collision.
Make sure your child always wears a helmet when riding a bike or other wheeled recreation toy. This may include a scooter, tricycle, pedal car or skateboard.
Make sure your child always removes their helmet when not riding. There is a risk of death or serious injury from hanging or strangulation where a helmet becomes caught on an object and the wearer becomes trapped.

When buying a product, consumers have the right to expect the product is of acceptable quality.

Acceptable quality includes that the product is safe, durable and free from defects.

If you bought a product that doesn’t comply with the mandatory standard or is unsafe, you can report it to us.

Report an unsafe product

If a person is seriously injured or needs urgent medical help, call emergency services on Triple Zero (000).