Using electric scooters in Australia depends on which state you are in, as road laws vary significantly across the country. Some jurisdictions allow the devices under strict conditions, while others ban their use on public roads completely. The rules are often technical, focusing on motor wattage and speed limits, but the penalties for breaking them can be severe.
NSW currently prohibits the use of electric scooters on public roads, footpaths, or bike lanes unless they are being used on private property. The Sydney Morning Herald recently reported that a trial for e-scooters could be expanding to several council areas within the near future. This trial may offer a glimpse into how the state might eventually regulate the transport mode.
In the ACT, authorities have explicitly stated that it is illegal to use electric scooters on roads or road-related areas. The ACT Government’s FAQ page confirms this restriction. A community consultation project regarding e-scooter regulation is currently underway, which suggests that the legislation and road rules governing these devices could change in the coming years.
Victoria offers a clearer path for riders, provided the device meets specific technical requirements. According to VicRoads, electric scooters are legal in the state if they function like a foot scooter, have a maximum speed of 10km/h, and are powered by an electric motor with an output of 200 watts or less. Riders caught using an illegal device face a fine of $826.
South Australia has a more complex situation. It is illegal to use electric scooters generally, with the exception of the Adelaide CBD where a trial is currently in progress. Participants must be at least 18 years old and cannot exceed 15km/h. The trial is set to conclude on October 13th, 2019, and there has been no official word from the local council or government regarding whether the program will continue after this date.
While the Northern Territory has not legalised e-scooters, the City of Darwin announced a 12-month trial for the device within the council area beginning as early as August 2019. Despite these announcements, there has been little clarity regarding the specific start dates or full rollout of the trial.
Related: Chery Tiggo 9 Elite Super Hybrid Great Value
Western Australia permits the use of low-powered scooters only on private property. Despite this, a Lime Scooter trial is currently operating in the Perth CBD. Reports indicate that hundreds of riders have been cautioned by police for operating the devices while under the influence of alcohol during the trial.
Queensland has adopted some of the most relaxed rules in the nation. The government’s webpage on foot scooters indicates that devices with a small electric motor (200 watts or under) and a maximum speed of 10km/h are subject to the same road rules as regular scooters and skateboards. Riders may also use devices with a maximum speed of 25km/h, provided they consult the specific road rules for personal mobility devices on the official information page.
Tasmania permits the use of e-scooters if the motor has a maximum power output of 200 watts or less, the power output is visibly certified on the motor, and the scooter cannot exceed 10km/h. While devices outside these specifications are not currently legal, local government officials have indicated that trials and changes to legislation on the mainland are being monitored.
It is worth noting that while some cities and councils are actively testing these devices, the patchwork of regulations across the country creates a confusing environment for potential riders. Authorities are constantly reviewing the data from these trials to determine if the safety risks outweigh the convenience the devices offer to commuters. Australian car culture has long celebrated innovation, a trend that might extend to two-wheeled personal transport.
This article is not intended as legal advice. You should check with your local road authority to verify the information written here is suitable to your situation before purchasing or using an electric scooter.
