The Debate Over Mandatory Licence Retesting for Elderly Drivers in Australia
As the number of elderly drivers on Australian roads continues to grow, a pressing question has emerged: Should Australia implement mandatory licence retesting for older motorists? This issue has gained renewed attention following recent road fatalities involving elderly drivers, prompting discussions among experts and policymakers.
Recent incidents, such as the tragic death of two pedestrians after a 91-year-old woman lost control of her vehicle in July 2025, have led Victorian road authorities to consider introducing mandatory testing for elderly drivers. This move aligns with similar initiatives in New South Wales. However, the debate over whether such measures are necessary or effective remains ongoing.
The Rising Concern: Elderly Drivers and Road Safety
Data from the Australian Department of Infrastructure and Transport shows that drivers aged 75 and above recorded the highest increase in deaths between June 2024 and June 2025. The number of fatalities rose from 165 to 188, marking a 13.9% increase in just one year. Additionally, AAMI Insurance’s 2024 Crash Index Report found that drivers aged 65 and older were responsible for more than a quarter (26%) of motor claims between 2014 and 2023.
These statistics highlight the growing concern about the safety of elderly drivers. However, some experts argue that age alone is not a reliable indicator of driving ability. Sjaan Koppel, an Associate Professor at the Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC), states that jurisdictions with age-based mandatory testing do not necessarily achieve better safety outcomes. “Mandatory testing can unfairly disadvantage older adults without improving road safety,” she said.
Challenges in Implementing National Testing
Kaarin Antsey, a Psychology Professor from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) and researcher at Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), points out that national implementation of mandatory retesting faces significant challenges. “Testing older drivers is expensive and not feasible to implement at a national scale,” she explained.
Moreover, her research suggests that diminished driving skills are often linked to long-standing bad habits rather than age alone. “Many of these issues stem from years of accumulated poor driving practices,” Antsey noted. She emphasized the importance of addressing these habits through targeted training and practice.
Health Conditions and Driving Ability
Serious health conditions, such as dementia, pose additional risks for elderly drivers. Professor Dimity Pond, a GP with expertise in cognitive impairment, highlighted that the risk of cognitive decline doubles every five years after the age of 75. “People over 80–85 typically have multiple chronic conditions that can affect their physical reactions while driving,” she said.
Professor Koppel from MUARC also pointed out that a range of chronic illnesses, including alcohol use, sleep disorders, epilepsy, vision impairment, diabetes, and stroke, can significantly impact driving ability. “The effects vary by individual, and not all cognitive or physical decline renders someone unfit to drive,” she added.
Eye conditions like glaucoma are another major concern. Professor Antsey noted that such conditions can impair peripheral vision, reduce reaction times, and hinder visibility in low-light conditions, all of which can compromise safe driving.
Alternatives to Mandatory Testing
Given the complexities involved, experts suggest that mandatory retesting may not be the only solution. Instead, they propose a combination of in-depth fit-to-assessments, support for early retirement from driving, and the use of safer vehicles.
Koppel from MUARC stressed the need for standardized and scientifically validated tools to help GPs assess fitness to drive. “Currently, there is no consistent method for evaluating this, making it difficult for clinicians to make informed decisions,” she said.
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has previously advocated for uniform criteria across all states and territories. “Discrepancies between jurisdictions create uncertainty for both drivers and healthcare professionals,” said Professor Antsey.
A Holistic Approach
A more comprehensive approach is needed, according to experts. This includes involving a range of professionals, such as occupational therapists, optometrists, neuropsychologists, and driving instructors. “We need a more integrated and holistic strategy to address the unique needs of elderly drivers,” Antsey said.
Conclusion
The question of whether Australia should introduce a national mandatory licence retesting program for elderly drivers remains complex. While concerns about safety are valid, solutions must balance the need for road safety with the rights and dignity of older drivers. As the debate continues, finding a balanced and effective approach will be crucial in ensuring the safety of all road users.