New structure for Australian national rally licence holders and tarmac rally competitors
Following the recent review into Targa style tarmac rallying, Motorsport Australia has confirmed a new licence structure and requirements for those with a National Rally Licence and competitors wishing to compete in tarmac events.
From 1 August 2023, Motorsport Australia will implement mandatory biennial (every two years) medical examinations for all new National Rally Licence applicants.
From 1 January 2024, all renewing National Rally Licence holders aged 45 and over will also be required to complete medical examinations every two years. This change mirrors the requirement for National Circuit Licence holders.
A new Tarmac Rally Licence structure will also be implemented, in line with the recommendations from the recent Targa Review Panel recommendations. This structure has been approved by the Australian Rally Commission (ARCom).
The following licence requirements will now apply only for those wishing to compete in Targa style tarmac rally events, which includes the completion of an Australian Driving Institute (ADI) approved driving course, tailored to tarmac rally competitors:
CATEGORY C DRIVER – 130KM/H
National Rally Licence required ($280)
Medical required in line with the National Rally Licence criteria
Completion of ADI Driving Course
CATEGORY B DRIVER – 165KM/H
FIA International Rally D Licence required ($800)
Completion of ADI Driving Course
Pre-licence conditions: Completion of five Motorsport Australia rally events (including 130km/h speed limited events)
CATEGORY A DRIVER – 200KM/H
FIA International Rally C Licence required ($1200)
Completion of ADI Driving Course
Pre-licence conditions: If holding a National Rally Licence, completion of 10 Motorsport Australia Rally events. If holding an ITR-D, completion of five Motorsport Australia National or International Rally events
Licences will be subject to vehicle eligibility.
Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport & Commercial Operations, Michael Smith, said the new licence structure was a significant step in the return of Targa style tarmac rallying.
“We are working hard on implementing all recommendations from the Targa Review Panel and I am pleased to say that we have made great progress in recent weeks and months,” said Smith.
“Work on all 94 recommendations is well underway, with the majority now in place, and that will allow the return of Targa style tarmac rally events in 2023.
“These changes to the licence structure are a significant part of the ‘hard reset’ of tarmac rallying here in Australia and an important part of ensuring the safety of all competitors, officials and spectators.
“The introduction of a medical for National Rally Licence holders is also a logical step. This requirement is the same for the large number of Australian motorsport competitors who hold a circuit licence.
“While the focus of the medical is to ensure safety when competing, there have been many reported cases of the Motorsport Australia medical actually saving lives having caught other medical matters that might have otherwise been missed. It’s a small price to pay for safety and wellbeing both on and off the track.”
All 94 Targa Review Panel recommendations can be viewed here.
Anyone wishing to book in to their local Australian Driving Institute Course can email info@motorsportacademy.com.au to find out more.
