Noosa MP Sandy Bolton says new Queensland legislation on e-mobility safety must focus on unsafe behaviours while protecting responsible riders.
The Transport and Other Legislation (Managing E-Mobility Use and Protecting Our Communities) Amendment Bill 2026 responds to rising injuries and the use of illegal devices, following years of community and first responder calls for stronger action.
“While many of the 28 recommendations reflect what our community has been calling for since 2022, including stronger safety standards and action on illegal devices, some concerns have arisen,” Ms Bolton said.
“These include ensuring the Queensland Police Service has the resources needed for effective enforcement, as this was already challenging under the existing legislation, and protections for those using compliant and lawful pedal-assisted e-bikes.”
The legislation introduces significant reforms aimed at improving safety on roads and pathways, following an increase in e-mobility-related injuries and fatalities, as well as a surge in the use of non-compliant devices.
While action is needed, Ms Bolton said reforms must be carefully targeted.
“It is important to consider the impacts on those who rely on these devices as an alternative transport solution, including those facing medical, financial or other barriers to obtaining a learner’s licence, which the proposed laws would require all riders to have, and we have written to the Minister raising these matters,” she said.
“Action must be targeted at unsafe behaviours and unlawful devices, backed by the resources needed to deliver safer outcomes for all.”
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Ms Bolton said the introduction of legislation was a significant step forward, but ongoing work would be required to ensure the laws meet community expectations.
“Legal e-mobility devices provide important benefits, including accessibility, sustainability and convenience, and have been part of modal shift efforts by governments over a decade to reduce congestion, emissions and parking woes,” she said.
“Our focus must remain on improving safety for everyone who shares our roads, paths and public spaces, while ensuring that responsible users on legal devices, including those under 16 years, are not unnecessarily disadvantaged or penalised.”
The proposed legislation has been referred to the State Development, Infrastructure and Works Committee, with submissions open until 10am on Friday, April 10.
Residents can submit feedback at parliament.qld.gov.au and copy Ms Bolton’s office at noosa@parliament.qld.gov.au.
