The Queensland government is considering implementing age limits and licensing requirements for e-bike and e-scooter riders, sparking debate and concern among residents. The proposed changes aim to address safety concerns and reduce the number of injuries and fatalities associated with e-mobility devices.
The state's transport minister, Brent Mickelberg, acknowledges the current laws are not practical and highlights the need for stricter regulations. If enacted, Queensland would join South Australia and Western Australia in setting an age limit of 16 for e-mobility devices and become the first jurisdiction to mandate a license for riders.
New South Wales has initiated an expert review to determine a legal minimum age for e-bike riders between 12 and 16, while many regions require e-scooter riders to be over 16. However, the practicality of enforcing these laws remains a question.
The current situation in Queensland allows children aged 12 to 16 to use e-mobility devices only with supervision. Minister Mickelberg suggests that the idea of 14-year-olds riding e-bikes with their parents is unlikely, as feedback from police and others indicates that existing regulations are not practical.
Concerns have been raised by community members, such as Kaylee Campradt, the P&C president at Palm Beach Currumbin State High School, who believes the proposed age limit will significantly impact the community and surprise parents. Campradt also questions the enforceability of the laws, especially for families relying on e-devices for transportation.
On the other hand, university student Luca Charles supports the potential licensing requirements, as he already possesses a license and views it as a way to prevent younger children from riding e-scooters and e-bikes.
The inquiry also suggests holding parents accountable for their children's behavior, including illegal riding. Minister Mickelberg acknowledges the complexity of these decisions, emphasizing the public health issue of 6,000 hospitalisations in three years and the impact on the hospital system. The report also recommends giving police the power to seize and destroy illegal e-mobility devices after a first offence.
The recommendations have been generally well-received by the RACQ, who advocate for swift action to address the unsafe conditions on footpaths. Michael Kane, the head of public policy, supports holding parents accountable and believes they must be part of the solution.
Minister Mickelberg clarifies that the requirement for a valid learner's permit (Class C) aims to hold riders accountable for their actions, including parents and guardians of children under 16 who may face penalties for their children's breaches. He acknowledges that the proposed changes may not be universally popular and highlights the need for a reasonable understanding of Queensland road rules among all road users.
Bicycle Queensland has criticized the proposed licensing changes, arguing they may limit access to e-mobility devices for international students and tourists. The 28 recommendations made to the Queensland government by the parliamentary inquiry include a 10 km/h speed limit on footpaths and defining devices exceeding 25 km/h as motorcycles.
Minister Mickelberg assures that the government will respond promptly to the inquiry, addressing the concerns and implementing necessary changes to ensure the safety of e-mobility users and the public.
