Police Bike Patrol

The City of Melbourne has several full-time bicycle police. They patrol the streets up to eight hours a day. Police on bikes are becoming more and more common the world over (see links at right), and for good reason.

Police on bikes can be more effective than in cars or on foot as they can go places where cars can't, but faster than on foot.

Penalties and the law

Motorists who speed, behave recklessly or drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs can be charged, fined and/or jailed for injuring or killing cyclists. See the link (right) on definitions of offences and the related jail terms.

Making a complaint against police

If you are unsatisfied with the police response after making a complaint about an incident while riding there are some steps you can take.

If you have a witness to support an incidence of harassment but the police do not want to take matters further and you are not happy with the reason, here's what you can do:

• Record the answer given (together with the name, rank and the officer's number) and ask to speak to their senior officer. Explain the situation to the senior officer.

• Again, if you unhappy with the response, record it together with the officer's particulars. Then contact Bicycle Victoria.

Bicycle Victoria through our Upholding your rights Program can provide advice on how to proceed with the matter. We will advise you on your next best course of action and can make further enquiries on your behalf.

We have overturned fines improperly given to Members by Victoria Police and ensured that drivers have been appropriately dealt with if involved in crashes with our Members.