Senators unanimously voted in Senate yesterday for the passage of stricter helmet laws that will update the standard of protective headgear to meet both British and US Department of Transportation standards.

Independent Senator Walwyn Hughes said the Motor-Cycles and Auxiliary Bicycles (Special Measures of Control) Amendment Act 2003 was a "sensible piece of legislation" but he questioned what the "liability" would be for people who are wearing a helmet that is no longer the standard.

He said that the "appalling" state of the roads made it a good reason to buy a better helmet.

He added that he did not know if the $100 fine for not having the new standard helmet would deter drivers.

Government Senator Michael Scott added that retailers should not be allowed to see helmets that were not up to standard, as they were putting people in harm.

Opposition Senator Kim Swan said he remembered that when helmet legislation was first introduced people were not keen on the idea of having to wear any headgear on a motorcycle.

"As time has gone past, we have seen the culture change so much that we will stop a tourist to say you need a safety helmet."

The amendment also stipulates that drivers and riders of motorcycles and auxiliary bicycles must have their helmet securely fastened. A few months ago in Magistrates' Court the fine of $50 for not having headgear fastened was bumped to $250.

Sen. Swan added that educating the youngest of the motoring public about fastening up was important and education should begin as early as possible in school.

"It's to your benefit to fasten up, it's good and fashionable to fasten up," he said.

People must adjust to some rules that are put in place because it makes it a safer community, said Government Senator Raymond Tannock.

Some Senators also brought up the issue of young children riding on the front of motorcycles and the danger of that situation.

Sen. Scott added that a public campaign would help discourage the practice. He added that in the case of impact in a crash, the person on the front would feel the most impact.

The Senators passed the amendment to the bill.