On March 1 new legislation governing cyclists will be introduced, including a more than 300 per cent increase in cyclists not wearing a helmet.

That fine will increase from $71 to $319 – as is holding onto a motor vehicle.

Running a red light, riding dangerously or failing to stop will also attract a greatly increased fine.

The raft of reforms also include the controversial requirement that cyclists over the age of 18 carry photo ID – which includes a driver’s licence or a NSW photo card.

Cyclists not carrying identification will be fined $106 but this will not be enforced until March 1, 2017, so they will have time to adjust to the new law.

“I recently announced a new cycling package that was developed in close consultation with stakeholders including cycling groups to improve safety for all road users in NSW,” Roads Minister Duncan Gay said.

“The changes we have announced are going to put cycling safety at the forefront of people’s minds.”

The new laws also mean drivers are required to give space to cyclists – either one metre or 1.5 metres depending on the speed of the vehicle.

“If taken as intended, motorists are going to be mindful of their minimum passing distance requirements and cyclists are going to better obey the law and avoid high-risk behaviour such as running red lights,” Mr Gay said.