New South Wales proposes repeal of motorsport licensing laws

The New South Wales Government has introduced the Motor Vehicle Sports (Public Safety) Repeal Bill 2026 to abolish the Motor Vehicle Sports (Public Safety) Act 1985. The proposed legislation aims to eliminate an outdated state-level licensing framework for motor racing venues, which currently requires racing ground licences issued through the NSW Office of Sport.

Under the existing law, the minister holds powers to issue, suspend, or cancel licences for specific grounds and vehicle types. The new regulatory model seeks to reduce administrative duplication by shifting reliance toward the safety, sanctioning, and insurance protocols managed by nationally recognised motorsport governing bodies.

Motorsport Australia has formally welcomed the move, with CEO Josh Blanksby describing it as a “sensible modernisation” that supports a nationally consistent approach to safety and accountability. If the bill passes through Parliament, the new arrangements are expected to commence in April 2027.