The year 2025 marked a transformation in urban mobility as e-scooters became legally allowed on most roadways as well as shared paths in Australia. All the doubts and regulations in multiple states regarding the use of e-scooters on roads, cycleways, and footpaths have finally come to rest in a set of new laws imposed by the government. These set of new laws seems to be a great improvement towards the adaptation of e-scooters in the transportation system of Australia as a new sustainable and easy option to travel short distances. Advanced urban mobility systems are being put in place and given a new image with the development of personalized rideable scooters.
E-Scooter Road Use Rules by State
| State/Territory | Roads Allowed | Max Speed (km/h) | Age Limit | Helmet Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Australia | Yes (roads ≤ 60 km/h) | 25 | 16+ | Yes |
| New South Wales | Yes (roads ≤ 50 km/h) | 20 (10 on paths) | 16+ | Yes |
| Victoria | Yes (roads ≤ 60 km/h) | 20-25 | 16+ | Yes |
| Queensland | Yes (footpaths and roads) | 12-25 | 12+ (supervised < 16) | Yes |
| Australian Capital Territory | Primarily paths, roads if no safe path | 15-25 | No minimum (children supervised) | Yes |
| Western Australia | Yes (roads ≤ 50 km/h) | 10-25 | 16+ | Yes |
State-by-State Legalisation and Rules
The rules for the legalisation and use of e-scooters continue to differ from state to state and even province to province. Each state has its own rules and regulations on the legality of e-scooters and the manner in which they can be used. For instance, in South Australia e-scooters were legalised for use on the road where the speed limit is 60 km/h from July 2025. In South Australia, e-scooters can now be used only in bicycle lanes provided the speed limit distance is 25 km/h. The age limit is 16 years, and the rider is also required to use a helmet and adhere to the speed limits set for footpaths and shared paths, which is normally 10-15 km/h.
The rules and regulations of New South Wales come in new phases, legalising the use of e-scooters on shared paths, bike lanes and some roads where the speed limit is 50 km/h or less starting from August 2025. In the state of Victoria, e-scooters can now be used on roads where the speed limit is 60 km/h or less, on bike paths, and shared paths, with a maximum speed of 20-25 km/h. In Queensland and Western Australia, the use of e-scooters is only on footpaths and they are also permitted on local roads but with minimum age limits and a speed restriction. In some parts, like the Australian Capital territory, e-scooters can only be used on footpaths, bike paths, and roads only if there is no other alternative route.
On the whole, the majority of jurisdictions are requiring the use of helmets, the prohibition of riding while intoxicated, and the banning of riding with a passenger. The range of speed limits is highly variable, but in general, walking is between 10 km/h and 25 km/h on roadways or bike lanes. These rules help protect users and promote the use of e-scooters as a green alternative.
Compliance and Safety First
Like with any new technology, the rapid increases in e-scooter use has caused for a heightened worry with regards to safety. Dud and use of helmets as well as speed limits are designed to minimize injury. The use of mobile phones while riding and riding while intoxicated are also prohibited.
All manufacturers and vendors are responsible for maintaining certain safety measures, and as a result, the only models for sale are those which have met the necessary compliance standards. Electric devices have to meet certain safety limits, weight limits (commonly 45 kg), and have to have devices which signal the user to the devices of brakes and bells. It is expected of the rider to park, without impeding any foot traffic.
Benefits for Urban Mobility and Environment
E-scooter use in Australia appears to address urban congestion and pollution. They are readily available for short rides, thereby putting distance between users and cars, which lowers emission and congested traffic. They can be integrated with public transport, and e-scooter use in public transport systems strengthens e-scooter public transport integration. It improves public transport first and last mile access by shifting transport users and public transport systems to e-scooter systems.
Businesses regard e-scooters as part of a transport mix for a more sustainable transport system. But they wish to achieve a sustainable ease of use for e-scooter useable roads and infrastructure, tile and safety. Trials and active machine crafted policies illustrate balance as Australia restructures it’s transport system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do e-scooters require a license or registration in Australia?
A: Yes, e-scooters are classified as motor vehicles and as such, a license or registration is a requirement. Note that local laws may require particular uses to clad themselves in protective gear and such.
Q2: What are the speed limits for e-scooters on roads and paths?
A: Less than 30km/h.
Q3: Are there boundaries within which e-scooters can be operated?
A: Unlike some states permit riding on bike lanes, pedestrian access can be restricted, and riding on highways or roads with a speed limit greater than 60 km/h is generally prohibited.
