One of the real issues, Janelle, is that cyclists (and cycles, and scooters -- even mobility scooters) are unidentifiable. Irresponsible operators can do whatever they like, and get away scot free. Cyclists and scooter riders carry no insurance, so if one hits you, or damages your property, you have to take civil action to recoup costs and damages, assuming you can identify the culprit. And unlike the rest of the world, cyclist fatalities are actually increasing in Australia. Read more here: http://www.seniordriveraus.com/why-are-cyclist-deaths-increasing-in-australia/

It is mainly the Sponsored Bike riders that flaunt the Law and everything else, they wont ride in designated bike lanes, they do NOT obey road rules, and they are the ones that make car drivers hate bike riders. Before you go crazy I'm a bike rider and I signal when turning, have lights on my bike, try not to impede too much into the road, and the people like me who ride for the fun of it pretty much do the right thing. BUT car drivers have a responseability as well 1.5metres means over the other side of the white line to pass a bike safely, for those who can't work it out in the old language 5 and a 1/2 foot away from the rider.