Motorcycle Insurance NSW
Compare 15+ motorcycle insurance NSW policies and get cover for damage, fire, theft, storms and more.
There are three levels of motorcycle insurance in NSW: comprehensive, third party, fire and theft, and third party property damage.
Our comparison table can help, but it can't show you prices. That's because quotes are personalised to where you live in NSW, the cover you choose and the type of bike you own. Compare features first then click through for a personalised quote.
Compare motorcycle insurance policies for NSW?
Do I need motorcycle insurance in NSW?
Yes, Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance is mandatory and you must purchase a policy before your motorcycle can be registered in NSW. While CTP is included as part of your registration costs in most Australian states and territories, it must be purchased separately in NSW so it's vital you do this before hitting the open road.
Besides this, there are several other important reasons why you should purchase motorcycle insurance, including:
- Protects against essential risks. Cover for Fire, theft, collision, vandalism, third party liability and more. There were 1,865 stolen motorcycles in NSW in 2017-18, according to the National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council (NMVTRC) – so motorcycle insurance can protect your bike (and your wallet) against common risks.
- Cover for a wide range of motorcycles. From sports bikes and cruisers to scooters, mopeds and just about everything else you can think of, there are motorcycle insurance policies available to cover an extensive variety of motorcycles. NSW requires the same insurance cover for mopeds and scooters as they do motorcycles.
- Covers your pride & joy. There are three main types of motorcycle insurance cover available, allowing you to choose a policy that matches your cover needs and budget. Some insurers also provide specialist cover for unique motorcycles, such as vintage or classic machines, which can be helpful for motoring enthusiasts throughout NSW.
- Hit the road with peace of mind. NSW is Australia's most populous state, which will mean premiums tend to be higher on average than other states. This is largely because there are more people on the road, putting you at greater risk. Having insurance in place allows you to hit the road knowing you don't need to worry about the financial impact if something goes wrong.
What should I consider when purchasing motorcycle insurance in NSW?
Before deciding on the right motorcycle insurance policy for you, make sure you closely consider your cover needs and budget. Once you know how much you want to insure your bike for and the risks you want to be protected against, you’ll be ready to start comparing policies.
However, it’s also worth pointing out that while Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance is included as part of your registration costs in most Australian states and territories, it must be purchased separately in NSW and the ACT. CTP insurance is mandatory and you must purchase a policy before your motorcycle can be registered in NSW.
In addition to CTP insurance, it’s also worth considering taking out motorcycle insurance that covers third-party damage liability and damage to your bike. There are three types of motorcycle liability and damage insurance available – we’ll take a closer look at what they cover in the next section.
What type of motorcycle insurance can I get in NSW?
There are three types of motorcycle insurance available in NSW: comprehensive insurance, third party fire and theft insurance, and third party property damage insurance. Check the table below for more details on what each of these policies does and doesn’t cover.
Feature | Comprehensive | Third party fire and theft | Third party property damage |
---|---|---|---|
Damage to other people’s property |
|
|
|
Damage to your motorcycle when involved in a no-fault accident with an uninsured motorist |
|
|
|
Damage to your motorcycle caused by fire and theft |
|
|
|
Damage to your motorcycle caused by accident/collision |
|
|
|
Damage to your motorcycle caused by vandalism, malicious acts, storm, hail, flood, earthquake |
|
|
|
For a full rundown on the cover provided by each type of motorcycle insurance, read the PDS provided by your insurer.
What things can affect my motorcycle insurance premium?
There are several factors that affect the cost of motorcycle insurance in NSW, such as:
- Your age. Younger riders are statistically more likely to be involved in an accident and therefore have higher premiums.
- The size of your bike’s engine. The more powerful the motorcycle, the higher your premiums will be.
- The level of cover you choose. The higher your level of cover, the more you will need to pay for a policy. The sum insured you select will also influence your premium amount.
- Your riding and claims history. If you’ve never made a motorcycle insurance claim or had a traffic infringement, you’ll pay less for cover than someone with a chequered riding history. However, if you’ve only held your licence for less than two years, you can expect to pay more for cover.
- Where your bike is kept. The suburb where your bike is kept overnight will affect premiums; for example, if you live in an area with a higher than average rate of motorcycle theft you will cop a higher premium. Keeping your car in a locked garage instead of parked out in the open can also reduce premiums.
- Outstanding finance. If there is money owing on your bike, expect your premiums to be higher.
- How much you ride. The less you ride, the cheaper your premiums will be. However, if you ride regularly or cover a significant amount of kilometres each year, expect premiums to rise.
- Rider training. If you complete an advanced rider training course, some insurers will reward you with cheaper premiums.
- Discounts. You can save money on cover by taking advantage of any discounts that apply, such as a loyalty discount for long-term policyholders.
What exclusions and additional costs should I be aware of in NSW?
Motorcycle insurance in NSW attracts stamp duty at a rate of 5% of the insurance premium. While the insurer is usually liable to pay this duty, sometimes the additional cost will be passed on to you. If your motorcycle has been modified with non-manufacturer accessories and is no longer street-legal or roadworthy, you will not be able to purchase motorcycle insurance cover in NSW.
- No cover if your bike was being used illegally, such as for street racing or burnouts
- No cover if your bike was being ridden by someone under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- No cover if you ride your bike while unlicensed
- No cover if your bike was carrying a larger load or larger number of passengers than permitted by law
Finally, keep in mind that motorcycle insurance in NSW attracts stamp duty at a rate of 5% of the insurance premium. While the insurer is usually liable to pay this duty, sometimes the additional cost will be passed on to you.
Why you can trust Finder's car insurance experts

We're free
You pay the same as buying directly from the car insurer. Better still, we regularly run exclusive deals that you won't find on any other site – plus, our tables make it easy to compare policies.

We're experts
Our team of car insurance experts have researched and rated dozens of policies as part of our Finder Awards and published 330+ guides to make it easier for you to compare.
We're independent
Unlike other comparison sites, we're not owned by an insurer. That means our opinions are our own and we work with lots of car insurance brands, making it easier for you to find a good deal.

We're here to help
Since 2014, we've helped 300,000+ people find car insurance by explaining your cover options, simply and clearly. We'll never ask for your number or email. We're here to help you make a decision.While you are here, you may also be interested in…
- Picture: Shutterstock
More guides on Finder
-
Not at fault car accident
What you need to know about insurance if you’re involved in a car accident that wasn’t your fault.
-
Do I need car insurance in Australia?
Yes, you need car insurance to protect you from expensive bills following an accident.
-
Allianz vs AAMI car insurance
Allianz vs AAMI – compare policies side by side and see who has what matters to you.
-
How long after a car accident can you claim?
Find out how long you have to file your car insurance claim.
-
Choice of repairer car insurance
Not sure if you should go with your own repairer or your insurer's favourite? Learn the pros and cons of each here.
-
Compare Car Insurance NSW
Your guide to getting car insurance in NSW.
-
Short term car insurance Australia
Find out what short term car insurance options are available in Australia.
-
Car insurance cover notes explained
Car insurance cover notes are no longer available in Australia. Read on to learn why and what your alternatives are.
-
Car insurance for P-platers
Find affordable and comprehensive car insurance for P-platers with this handy guide.
-
How much is car insurance?
How much does car insurance cost and what factors affect your premium? Your comprehensive guide here.
Ask an Expert