Arabic version: كوينزلاند تشترط رخصة لراكبي الدراجات والسكوترات الكهربائية المنفردين
According to ABC News, Queensland riders will need to be at least 16 and hold a driver’s licence to ride an e-bike or e-scooter alone from August 31. The rules are the next stage of the state’s laws targeting e-devices. Equivalent interstate and international driver’s licences will be accepted.
Children aged 12 to 17 who do not have a learner’s licence may still ride under parental supervision, after the government changed its initial proposal for a blanket ban on riders under 16. Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg said the government had sought to balance safe and legal use, particularly for young Queenslanders who could use the devices safely. He said the laws would undergo a mandatory review in coming years.
People unable to drive because of a medical condition or disability can apply for an exemption, with a three-month grace period until November 29. Applicants must submit a form signed by a registered health practitioner who can verify they appear capable of operating an e-mobility device safely. A practitioner may attach conditions, including supervision or daytime-only riding. Queensland Advocacy Incorporated chief executive Matilda Alexander welcomed the exemption but raised concern about the administrative burden for people with disability.
Shared-device operators, including Lime and Neuron, have until March next year to take reasonable steps to check users’ age and licence status. Options include declarations in an app or in writing, and sighting a licence when a device is hired. Bicycle Queensland chief executive Matthew Burke said the requirement could be difficult for tourists travelling with a passport rather than an international driver’s licence.
Police have had powers since July to seize and destroy illegal devices and randomly breath test riders. Acting Deputy Commissioner Rhys Wildman said police had seized 400 illegal e-devices and issued nearly 1,750 fines, including nearly 1,000 for not wearing a helmet and 142 for speeding. He said 54 riders had been charged with drink driving and described the effect of the laws as a significant cultural shift.
