Noosa MP Sandy Bolton has welcomed the release of the State Development, Infrastructure and Works Committee’s report into E-Mobility Safety, following years of advocacy for stronger regulation to address the growing risks associated with unacceptable and dangerous behaviours on illegal and modified electric bikes, scooters and other powered devices.
The inquiry received 1,223 submissions, including one from the Noosa MP outlining the concerns raised by residents, police and first responders since 2022 regarding unsafe devices and dangerous behaviours on roads, pathways and public spaces, with the inquiry’s findings reinforcing the urgent need for reform.
“In 2025 alone there were 12 deaths in Queensland, including children, and more than 6300 presentations to Queensland Health facilities with injuries linked to these devices,” the Member for Noosa said.
“These are tragedies that many in our community have warned about for years. While e-mobility devices bring benefits including accessibility, sustainability, outdoor recreation and the sought reduction in car use, the safety of everyone sharing our roads and pathways must remain the priority.”
The Committee has recommended significant changes including restricting compliant devices to riders aged 16 and over with at least a learner licence, defining devices that can travel above 25km/h and meet Australian Design Standards as motorbikes requiring a motorbike licence, registration and Compulsory Third Party insurance, implementing anti-tampering laws to prohibit modification kits, providing powers for Queensland Police Service to seize, impound and destroy illegal devices, and defining all e-mobility devices with an electrical power source as a ‘motor vehicle’ to simplify enforcement, among others.
The Noosa MP said these measures address many of the concerns raised by communities and first responders.
“Regulations already exist however have not kept pace with the rapid growth and misuse of these devices. Stronger enforcement and oversight powers, clearer product standards and a unified approach across all levels of government have been sought, and the report reflects this.”
The Member for Noosa said while the Committee’s recommendations are welcomed, any form of action has been too slow.
“Our community has been raising these issues since 2022, and unfortunately during that time Queensland has seen avoidable injuries and deaths,” Ms Bolton said.
“It is disappointing that governments did not act sooner and trust they now implement the Committee’s recommendations.”
The Independent Member reiterated that the goal is not to discourage responsible use, but to ensure safer outcomes for everyone.
“E-mobility devices are here to stay, and they can provide real benefits. However, the framework governing them must prioritise safety, accountability and common sense,” Ms. Bolton said.
To review the Parliamentary Inquiry into E-Mobility Safety and Use in Queensland’s report and recommendations, visit www.parliament.qld.gov.au/Work-of-the-Assembly/Tabled- Papers/docs/5826t0264/5826t264.pdf.
