2024 safety ratings for 61 bicycle helmets

In an Australian-first, bicycle riders in NSW will be able to pick a helmet based on a simple safety rating from 1 to 5 stars.

Modelled on ANCAP safety ratings for motor vehicles, the Helmet STAR (Safety Testing and Assessment Ratings) will provide an easy-to-understand safety rating for new helmets based on comprehensive testing.

The first set of ratings proves helmet safety is not determined by price alone, with the $22 Bluey helmet for toddlers deemed the safest on the market in its category. 

Each helmet is impact tested at the NSW Crashlab, where Transport for NSW technicians conduct examinations including vertical drops, a strap-strength test, and drop tests onto moving platforms. The helmet’s ability to protect the user’s head in each scenario is tested and a star rating assigned.

The new rating will provide bicycle riders, and parents buying a helmet for their child, with a clear guide to the safest helmets available in their price range. Helmets tested include models specifically for skaters and foot-scooter riders.

The first round of testing has been completed, with ratings for 61 helmets now publicly available in categories including mountain bike, road, recreational/skate, general and children’s helmets.

Helmets with price tags ranging $17 to $499 have been put under the microscope. All helmets tested have met the Australian standard, but the star rating shows which helmets provide superior protection. The top-rated helmets in each category, with four or five-star ratings, are:

Minister for Roads, John Graham, said:

"We’ve had star safety ratings for new cars since 1993 which has given people confidence that they’re purchasing a vehicle that will protect them and their family in a crash. In NSW, we also issue ratings for motorcycle safety gear, including helmets, and children’s car seats.

“It is good news for riders and parents that this new star rating program brings the same simplicity and peace of mind to bicycle helmets.

“By wearing a five-star rated helmet you are two to two and a half times less likely to sustain a serious head injury than if you were wearing a one-star helmet. This puts the power of choice in the hands of consumers.”

Minister for Transport, Jo Haylen, said:

“The price of a new helmet doesn't always indicate how safe it is. This new safety rating gives bike riders and parents the information they need to make an informed choice on what helmet is safest, and best for them.

"All helmets sold in Australia do meet a minimum standard, and they are safe to use, but some have features and designs that make them even more safe in an incident.

“This new program, launched by the NSW Government gives people that information in an easy to follow way.

“Everyone should check out the Helmet STAR program and pick up the best helmet in their price range.”

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison, said:

“We want people to have fun while cycling, scootering or skating, and know that their helmet provides the best crash protection they can afford.

“It’s important that safety rating information is available to people looking to purchase helmets, because the price of a helmet doesn’t relate to its safety.

“This is another way the NSW Government is finding ways to keep people safer on our roads, but we can’t do it alone. When you’re cycling or using a scooter or skateboard, always wear a helmet – it could save your life.”