Several local councils and the RACQ have expressed opposition to two proposed restrictions on e-bikes in Queensland, which would mandate that riders be over 16 years old and possess a driver’s license while enforcing a speed limit of 10 km/h on shared pathways. These proposals emerged after a recent parliamentary inquiry highlighted safety concerns related to e-mobility devices.
RACQ General Manager Josh Cooney stated that while the organisation supports the bill, it disagrees with the licensing and speed limit stipulations. He argued that a blanket speed limit of 10 km/h is unnecessary, as community worries largely centre around close encounters and unsafe riding behaviours, rather than speed itself. Cooney suggested that additional licensing is redundant since riding in low-speed areas differs significantly from navigating complex traffic situations.
Brisbane, Gold Coast, Logan, and Noosa councils have also voiced concerns regarding the proposed regulations. Brisbane City Council CEO Kerrie Freeman warned that requiring a license could deter young riders, tourists, and individuals with disabilities from using e-bikes. She pointed out that e-mobility devices enhance public transport access and help alleviate road congestion, further emphasising the necessity of encouraging more people to walk and ride in urban settings.
Freeman raised concerns that lowering the speed limit from 12 km/h to 10 km/h could inadvertently push more e-bike riders onto roads without dedicated infrastructure. She referenced guidelines indicating that bicycles can experience instability below 11 km/h, and suggested that a speed limit closer to the pace of fast walking does not align with the typical speeds of road vehicles. Consequently, she believes ending up on roads could pose higher risks.
A similar perspective is echoed by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council, which argues the licensing requirements may exclude international visitors and families with children from engaging in guided experiences. Disability advocates also express a focus on the potential disadvantages these regulations might impose on young people with disabilities who can operate e-mobility devices but are not fit to drive a motor vehicle.
Despite some opposition, Vision Australia largely supports the proposed legislation, advocating for e-bikes to be equipped with acoustic alerts to assist vision-impaired pedestrians.
Bicycle Queensland and other cycling groups advocate for a complete removal of licensing, speed limits, and age restrictions, calling for greater emphasis on illegal devices rather than regulating compliant e-bikes. Queensland Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg stated that the government is committed to making difficult choices to implement leading-edge reforms, with the legislation currently under committee consideration, which will review all submitted input before reporting back in May.