New e-bike laws set to begin across Queensland
- 55 minutes ago
- 1 min read
Queensland has introduced tougher rules for e-bike riders, with new licensing requirements taking effect today.
Under the changes, riders must be at least 16 years old and hold a valid learner’s permit. Parents could also face fines if their children are caught riding illegally.
The reforms come just days after a 13-year-old Queensland boy died in an e-scooter crash, increasing calls for stronger safety measures for young riders.
There are some exceptions. Children may ride e-bikes with their parents in certain circumstances. Exemptions can also apply to people who cannot obtain a licence because of a medical condition or disability but are considered fit to ride.
Young riders will also be allowed to use e-bikes in designated recreational areas, including rail trails, mountain bike tracks and private off-road cycling facilities.
The new licensing rules follow other measures introduced by Queensland, including an e-bike speed limit in July and the seizure of almost 400 illegal e-bikes and e-scooters.
E-bike regulations vary across Australia. In Queensland, Victoria and Western Australia, approved e-bikes can have motors of up to 500 watts, with pedal assistance cutting out at 25km/h.
New South Wales is transitioning to a 250-watt limit, with the change expected to be completed by 2029.
The Queensland government says the tougher rules are aimed at improving safety and reducing the risks associated with increasingly popular electric bikes.
Stay tuned with Aus News Lanka – the leading platform for news for Australians.
Source : 9 News
Comments