The NSW Government has moved to scrap a 40-year-old law that regulates motor racing across the state, and Lismore’s speedway scene is in the spotlight.
Legislation to repeal the Motor Vehicle Sports (Public Safety) Act 1985 was due to be introduced to Parliament this week. The Act set up a licensing system for motor racing venues in NSW.
Under the repeal Bill, motorsport would move from government regulation to industry-led self-regulation, a model the government says would cut duplication. If the Bill passes, the new arrangements are expected to start in April 2027.
“The repeal Bill will transition motorsport from Government regulation to industry-led self-regulation, bringing New South Wales into line with every other Australian state and territory,” said Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin.
Until the repeal passes, the Office of Sport still issues licences for race meetings at approved venues. Licences last up to 12 months and rely on advice from sanctioning bodies, including Motorsport Australia, Motorcycling NSW, and the National Association of Speedway Racing.
So what about safety? Ms Saffin, who holds the seat of Lismore, said it would stay front and centre.
“Industry-led regulation will give motorsport greater flexibility to grow participation, attract major events, encourage investment in infrastructure and create jobs,” she said.
“Safety remains central, with motorsport organisations already responsible for competitor licensing, safety protocols and event sanctioning.”
Speedway Australia has said existing safety standards are tied to insurance requirements that sit outside the Act. Motorsport Australia chief executive Josh Blanksby said the reform supports a nationally consistent approach and reduces unnecessary regulatory duplication. Motorsport Australia says sanctioning and regulation should stay with nationally recognised governing bodies.
The Act replaced an earlier framework from the 1950s and has been under review for several years. It was originally meant to improve safety for spectators and competitors. The government began consulting on it in 2019, and Ms Saffin said there had already been extensive consultation with the sector. There would be further consultation once the Act was repealed.
The repeal is expected to be part of a wider NSW Motorsport Strategy, which is still being developed. Topics include participation, facilities, workforce, major events, and environmental impacts.
Closer to home, Ms Saffin pointed to two Lismore groups.
“The Lismore Automobile Club and Lismore Speedway based at the Lismore Showground are professionally run outfits and have huge followings,” Ms Saffin said.
“Removing red tape will only encourage the industry to grow, which is great news for regions like ours.”
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