In a milestone moment for road safety education, Honda Australia Roadcraft Training (HART) has celebrated 25 years of its flagship RYDA program, returning to where it all began, in St Ives, New South Wales. HART has helped educate hundreds of thousands of young drivers, promote risk awareness and safer decision-making and contribute to safer roads.
Back where it all started
The very first RYDA workshop was held on March 7, 2001, at the HART St Ives facility. Fast forward 25 years, and the anniversary has been marked in a fitting way.
Students from Abbotsleigh took part in a commemorative workshop at the same location. This return to St Ives highlights both the longevity and impact of the program.
What is HART?
Honda Australia Roadcraft Training (HART) is Honda Australia’s dedicated rider and driver training division, with facilities in New South Wales and Victoria. Since opening in 1989, HART has played a key role in delivering practical road safety education across Australia.
More than 552,000 students will have been trained through its motorcycle and car safety programs by the end of March 2026.
A broader mission beyond manufacturing
The establishment of HART reflects Honda Motor Company’s broader philosophy: Going beyond simply building vehicles. Instead, the company has long positioned itself as a contributor to safer roads, better driver education, and community-focused initiatives.
Over decades, HART has helped individuals not only learn to drive or ride but also develop the skills needed to do so safely, contributing to improved road safety outcomes.
RYDA’s growth over 25 years
While the RYDA (Rotary Youth Driver Awareness) program began as a single-site initiative at St Ives, it has expanded dramatically. Today, it is recognised as one of the largest school-based road safety education programs in Australia and New Zealand. Over the past 25 years, the program has:
- Reached more than 900,000 young people
- Delivered practical, evidence-based strategies for safer driving and passenger behaviour
- Contributed to measurable behavioural change among young road users
Also read: Refreshed and electrified 2026 Honda CR-V range detailed
Looking ahead: Vision for zero fatalities
Globally, Honda Motor Company is working towards an ambitious goal: Zero road fatalities by 2050. In Australia, HART plays a critical role in achieving that vision by continuing to deliver hands-on safety training and education.
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