ACC Minister Nikki Kaye today announced that Joanne (Jo) Buckner has been appointed to the Motorcycle Safety Advisory Council (MSAC).

The council represents the motorcycling community and advises ACC on safety initiatives that will make motorcycling safer on New Zealand roads.

'Jo brings a strong background of leadership and advisory experience to the Council, along with a passion for motorcyclists' safety,” says Ms Kaye.

'As well as being a keen motorcyclist herself, Jo has in-depth involvement with the motorcycling community.

'She is a former Captain of the New Zealand Division of the Women's International Motorcycling Association and a Life Member of the BMW Owners Register.”

Based on Ministry of Transport crash facts, motorcyclists are 21 times more likely to be killed or injured than car drivers over the same distance travelled.

'The MSAC plays a key role influencing the work of ACC and others aimed at reducing motorcycle crashes and the impact they have on riders, their families and the community.

'Jo's experience, skills and passions will be an important asset to the Council and the work it's doing.

'Last year, I consulted on and reduced the motorcycle safety levy, which pays for road safety initiatives specifically benefitting motorcyclists, from $30 to $25 per year from 1 July 2016.

'This strikes a balance between investing in safety initiatives that can reduce motorcyclists' injuries, and not collecting too much in levies.

'The Council is currently working with ACC exploring a range of new initiatives involving rider skills, road user behaviour, road and roadside improvements and motorcycle safety technology.

'I'm also advised that the MSAC and ACC are preparing to launch their joint Motorcycle Safety Strategy, as their commitment to the Safer Journeys Action Plan 2016 – 2020.

'This strategy will aim to help people be better informed about the causes of motorcycle crashes, and seek to direct conversation and focus to the areas of greatest benefit in terms of reducing fatal and serious injuries.”

Source: Office of Nikki Kaye.