Under-16 e-scooter ban watered down by Qld government

The Queensland government has significantly watered down its proposed ban on e-mobility devices for individuals under 16. The revised laws will now permit those aged between 12 and 17 to ride e-scooters and e-bikes under parental supervision, a notable shift from the initial stricter proposal.

Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg announced the amendments, which are anticipated to pass state parliament this week. The government's original plan, stemming from a parliamentary inquiry into e-mobility safety, recommended a complete ban for under-16s and required riders to hold at least a learner's license. The finalized bill, however, includes exemptions for individuals unable to obtain a license due to medical conditions or disabilities.

Further adjustments were made regarding the use of these devices on rail trails and mountain bike tracks, following recommendations from a committee that reviewed the proposed legislation. These changes reflect a compromise after facing community opposition, particularly concerning the speed limit on footpaths.

Instead of the initially proposed 10 km/h limit on footpaths, the government has settled on 12 km/h for footpaths and when passing pedestrians on shared paths. The general speed limit on shared paths will remain 25 km/h. Minister Mickelberg stated the government is committed to delivering "nation-leading laws."

The phased implementation of the new laws is expected to begin July 1, with the ban on unsupervised riding for under-16s and the license requirements taking effect from August 31.

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We promised to deliver nation-leading laws and that is exactly what we will be doing this week