When is a body protector compulsory, and which standards are accepted?

• When: body protectors are mandatory when jumping fixed obstacles (Group B disciplines such as cross country, hunter trials, Hickstead Derby, supercross and the tetrathlon riding phase) for all ages and grades. They are also mandatory for Ride to Time and Speed to Safety.
• Training too: approved or mandatory gear for a discipline applies at both training (rally, muster, clinic) and competition level.
• Standard: the body protector must be equestrian make and of standard BETA:2009 or BETA:2018 Level 3, or EN13158:2009 or EN13158:2018 Level 3.
• Older models: 2009 Level 3 models (produced until 2018) are permitted until 1 January 2027 if in good condition.
• Open riders: non-members competing at a Pony Club run event need an approved body protector where it is mandatory for the discipline.

Source: Pony Club Australia National Gear Rules, effective 1 January 2026 (1.04).