Proposed changes to the laws regarding e-scooters in New South Wales (NSW) could mean that approximately half a million e-scooters would be prohibited for use by individuals under 16 years old. However, these scooters would be permitted to operate in conjunction with cars, bicycles, and pedestrians in designated areas. Currently, e-scooters are available for purchase, yet they exist in a legal limbo, as operating them in public spaces is against the law.
The draft regulations, released recently, suggest that e-scooters could be used on bike paths and shared pathways, provided that riders yield to pedestrians and adhere to a speed limit of 20 km/h. When riding on roads, a higher speed limit of 50 km/h would be allowed. Additionally, the proposed legislation mandates the wearing of helmets, enforcement of a 0.05 blood alcohol limit, and stipulates that riders must be at least 16 years old, aligning with laws in most other Australian states, except for the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).
Transport Minister Jo Haylen emphasized that the current situation has left e-scooter usage in a “legal grey area,” unlike other states that have already established clear regulations. She expressed a desire to address this inconsistency, noting, “We want to fix what is a bit of a legal anomaly,” during an interview with ABC radio.
The NSW government believes that this new framework will enable the state to harness the advantages of increased e-mobility, which includes e-scooters and e-bikes. The anticipated benefits include a reduction in short car trips, alleviation of pressure on parking spaces, and improved access to train stations, job centers, services, and retail areas.
Under the proposed plan, local councils would retain authority over the regulation of shared e-scooters. This includes the ability to set their own speed limits and even to restrict or ban their use in certain parts of the local government area. This localized control aims to ensure that the integration of e-scooters into the community is both safe and effective.
Trials of shared e-scooters are currently taking place in areas such as Kogarah, Wollongong, and several other council regions. Meanwhile, larger councils in Sydney are set to address members of parliament to discuss both the benefits and potential risks associated with e-scooter use. A significant concern remains regarding the tendency of riders to leave e-scooters scattered across footpaths after their journeys, which can obstruct pedestrian access.
In response to these issues, Vision Australia has proposed that shared e-mobility companies be required to implement technology enabling remote relocation of e-scooters parked outside designated areas. This measure aims to mitigate the problem of abandoned scooters cluttering public pathways and ensure a more orderly environment for all users of the space.
As the discussions surrounding the regulation of e-scooters continue, stakeholders are keen to find a balance between promoting innovative transportation methods and ensuring the safety and convenience of all road users. With the proposed changes, NSW could potentially set a precedent for e-scooter regulations, encouraging other regions to consider similar frameworks that facilitate safe and responsible use of these increasingly popular devices.