New regulations for e-bikes and e-scooters in Queensland have introduced stricter age requirements, mandatory licensing, and increased penalties for non-compliance. According to the Queensland government, riders of personal mobility devices (PMDs) must now hold a valid driver’s licence and adhere to new speed limits, with police granted expanded powers to seize non-compliant devices. These changes follow a parliamentary inquiry into e-mobility safety conducted earlier this year.
Licensing and Age Requirements for Riders
The regulatory framework mandates that, by August 31, all riders of e-bikes and e-scooters must hold a valid driver’s licence, including a learner’s permit. This marks a shift from previous, more relaxed access. For those unable to hold a licence due to medical conditions, the government has indicated that specific exemptions will be available, though full details remain forthcoming.
Age restrictions are also tightening. Between July 1 and August 31, riders of PMDs—such as e-scooters, e-skateboards, and e-unicycles—must be at least 16 years old to ride unsupervised. For children aged 12 to 17 who do not hold a driver’s licence, the new rules require direct parental supervision. Under these laws, parents may be held legally responsible for their child’s illicit conduct unless they can demonstrate they took reasonable steps to prevent it.
Speed Limits and Road Access
Speed regulations have been standardized to improve safety for pedestrians. Effective July 1, e-bikes and e-scooters are limited to 12 km/h when travelling on footpaths or passing pedestrians on shared paths. This aligns e-mobility devices with the rules currently governing standard bicycles.
On the road, the rules have expanded access. Riders are now permitted to use roads with speed limits of up to 60 km/h, an increase from the previous 50 km/h threshold. However, devices are restricted to a maximum speed of 25 km/h. While there is a transition period until February 28, 2027, any device exceeding this speed limit after that date will be deemed illegal.
Penalties and Enforcement
Financial penalties for non-compliance are significant. Starting July 1, riding without a licence or failing to wear a helmet carries an on-the-spot fine of $518. Similar penalties apply to “doubling” (carrying a passenger), riding on prohibited roads, or careless riding.
Drink riding remains a severe offence, with fines ranging from $518 up to $6,908 depending on the severity of the breach. Speeding fines also vary, scaling from $345 to $1,986. Beyond monetary fines, police have been granted the authority to seize and dispose of non-compliant or prohibited e-mobility devices.
Did you know?
Data from the ABC indicates that more than 50% of hospitalisations related to e-scooter accidents involve people aged between 16 and 34, a statistic that influenced the government’s focus on licensing and age-based regulations.
Future Trends in E-Mobility
The shift toward stricter regulation suggests a maturing market where safety is prioritized over unrestricted access. As the government rolls out its assurance scheme, owners can expect a greater emphasis on technical standards, specifically the European Standard EN15194. Owners of overpowered, pedal-free e-bikes should note that while these remain legal for purchase, their usage is strictly confined to private property.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a licence to ride an e-scooter? Yes, under the new laws, a valid driver’s licence or learner’s permit is mandatory.
- Can my child ride an e-scooter? Children aged 12–17 can ride, but those under 16 require parental supervision unless they hold a valid driver’s licence.
- What is the speed limit on footpaths? E-bikes and e-scooters are limited to 12 km/h on footpaths and when passing pedestrians.
- What happens if I am caught riding an illegal device? Police have the power to seize and dispose of non-compliant or prohibited devices.
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