Drivers will face fines and lose demerit points if they’re too close to cyclists when passing them.

The one-metre rule has been trialled for two years in New South Wales and will now become permanent.

Roads Minister Melinda Pavey says 61 drivers were fined for breaching the rule during the trial.

“When we started it two years ago we said we would trial it and make sure it worked well.

“I think this strikes the right balance in terms of common sense and respect.”

Minister Pavey says it seems “behaviour by both sides of the equation” has improved.

Drivers who don’t leave a metre between their car and a cyclist will be fined $330 and lose two points.

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