The Amy Gillett Foundation has launched a social media campaign to convince the Victorian government to introduce a law requiring drivers to leave a metre gap when passing cyclists.

The move was recommended five months ago after a parliamentary inquiry, but has not yet been passed into legislation.

RoadSafe North East members joined the campaign with their own selfies.

Michelle Armstrong has encouraged other cyclists in the region to do the same in support of the Amy Gillett Foundation’s “metre matters” campaign.

“We are a strong community of cyclists here in the North East and Border region, so let’s help make ‘a metre matters’ a reality,” she said. 

“A minimum passing distance is essentially about creating a safe space on our roads for all types of cyclists, whether riding in town or out on the country roads. 

“The legislation aims to bring about a cultural change so drivers are aware of the vulnerability of cyclists, young and old, and drive accordingly.”

Posts on the Amy Gillett Foundation Facebook page over the past month – featuring people of diverse age groups, everyday commuters, recreational cyclists and professional racers – have tagged Mr Andrews, Road Safety Minister Luke Donnellan and VicRoads.

Foundation chief executive Phoebe Dunn said Victoria was the only state to not have a metre matters in the law on running as a trial.

“There’s been a comprehensive inquiry with many positive recommendations published, but the cyclists of Victoria are yet to see any result that will improve their travelling conditions and the March 15 deadline for response is looming,” she said. “A metre matters will benefit the whole community – it will save lives.”

Ms Armstrong said others could post their own selfies to continue pushing the message.

“Get a few cycling pals together and record a short video clip to post on your your own social media channels, with the suggested tags,” she said.

“It couldn’t be easier.”