SafeWork NSW and NSW Police are checking that food delivery riders and platforms are complying with new safety laws.

SafeWork NSW Acting Executive Director for Compliance and Dispute Resolution Sarina Wise says that a new compliance operation will ensure food delivery riders wear supplied high-visibility personal protective equipment, have completed the required training and are operating in a safe manner.

“SafeWork NSW and NSW Police will be engaging with riders in high-risk locations during typically busy periods,” Ms Wise said.

“New safety laws that began on 1 January 2023 required all riders to use or wear personal protective equipment while delivering food or drink.

“Riders must also produce their training verification record if requested by a SafeWork NSW Inspector or NSW Police Officer.”

There will also be a continued focus on motorised e-bikes that are illegal, riders having inadequate lighting on bikes and unsafe practices such as using a mobile phone while riding.

The latest safety laws built on reforms introduced in July 2022, when it became legally required for food delivery platforms to provide riders with induction training, maintain training records and supply riders with personal protective equipment.

The NSW Government established the Food Delivery Rider taskforce in 2020 that aimed to improve safety in the industry. These new laws are built on the work of the taskforce.

“These reforms are ultimately about keeping riders, who are among some of our most at risk road users, safer on our streets,” Ms Wise said.

“NSW has the strongest safety environment for food delivery platforms and riders anywhere in the world.

“The Government continues to work with industry to ensure a culture where people and safety comes first.”

Riders found to be non-compliant could receive an on-the-spot fine of $144, while food delivery platforms may be fined up to $3,600 for breaches of these safety laws.