QUEENSLAND e-bike and e-scooter riders face tougher rules from August 31, with new laws requiring riders to be at least 16 and hold a minimum learner licence.
The second phase of the State Government’s e-mobility reforms also makes parents liable for fines if children under 16 are caught illegally riding e-bikes or e-scooters.
Exemptions apply for children aged 12 to 17 when riding with a parent, as well as people unable to hold a licence because of certain medical conditions or disabilities. Interstate and international licences will be accepted, but people whose licence has been suspended or disqualified will be prohibited from riding e-mobility devices.
The changes follow the first phase of reforms introduced on July 1, which gave police powers to conduct random breath tests on riders. The reforms also banned e-bikes and e-scooters capable of exceeding 25km/h unassisted and introduced tougher penalties for speeding, failing to wear a helmet, careless riding and illegally carrying passengers.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Brent Mickelberg said the laws were aimed at improving safety.
