Australia is preparing to permit e-scooters to legally integrate into general traffic in several states. This is going to be a game changer for urban transport in the country. Here is the guide covering the changes on the rules, the differences in the states, and what the riders and the general public need to know.
New Road Rule Overview
Starting from the new July and August 2025 timelines, South Australia will be the first state to allow all rented and privately owned e-scooters that meet safety standards to be used on various public roads and integrated into the public bike lane system. This will then be followed by the rest of the states in Australia. Riders will need to be 16 to ride e-scooters on their own or, in some states, 12, again, with an adult. Riders need to wear helmets and will need to stay within the specified speed zones and will not be allowed to ride while impaired.
Where E-Scooters Can Ride
In South Australia, e-scooters can use the bike lanes, footpaths, shared pathways, and local roads with a 60km/h speed limit. However, they must use the bicycle lane in the lower speed areas.
NSW states that e-scooters may be used on shared pathways, bike lanes, and roadways with a speed limit of 50 km/h or lower; yet, Victoria has a higher limit of 60 km/h roadways and lately has allowed e-scooters on bike lanes. Other states, like Queensland, Western Australia, and Tasmania have similar e-scooter use on roadways and bike lanes with smaller differences on age and speed restrictions.
Safety, Speed, and Equipment
E-scooters must comply with nation wide speed laws which limits road use to a maximum of 25 km/h and bike and road use of footpaths to 10-15 km/h. The use of helmets, lights, and brakes of e-scooters are required, and they must have alarms with bells. Riders may not use a cell phone or carry a passenger.
E-scooters may be used on shared pathways, bike lanes, and roadways with a speed limit of 50 km/h or lower; yet, Victoria has a higher limit of 60 km/h roadways and recently has allowed e-scooters on bike lanes. Other states, like Queensland, Western Australia, and Tasmania have similar e-scooter use on roadways and bike lanes with smaller differences on age and speed restrictions.
State Comparison Table
| State/Territory | Road Max Speed | Path Max Speed | Bike Lanes | Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Australia | 25 km/h | 10 km/h | Yes | 16+ |
| NSW | 20 km/h | 10 km/h | Yes | 16+ |
| Victoria | 20 km/h* | N/A | Yes | 16+ |
| Queensland | 25 km/h | 12 km/h | Yes | 12+ |
Safety, Speed, and Equipment
E-scooters must comply with nation wide speed laws which limits road use to a maximum of 25 km/h and bike and road use of footpaths to 10-15 km/h. The use of helmets, lights, and brakes of e-scooters are required, and they must have alarms with bells. Riders may not use a cell phone or carry a passenger.
FAQs
Q1: Is there a need to register or get a license for approved e-scooters?
For approved e-scooters, there is no need for a license or registration.
Q2: Can you take e-scooters on trains or trams?
At the moment, most Adelaide Metro trains, trams, and buses do not allow e-scooters.
Q3: What punishment will you get for riding while impaired?
You will face fines and the removal of demerit points. Riding an e-scooter while affected by alcohol or drugs is not permitted.
