A parliamentary inquiry has recommended that the Queensland government ease several proposed e-bike and e-scooter restrictions, including limiting the controversial 10km/h speed cap to busy pedestrian areas only.
The original reforms were introduced in response to safety concerns and proposed that riders must be at least 16 years old, hold a driver’s licence, and travel no faster than 10km/h on shared pathways.
However, the parliamentary committee has suggested the 10km/h limit should apply only on footpaths in crowded pedestrian zones. It also recommended a 15km/h speed limit on shared paths when riders are within 10 metres of pedestrians.
Concerns were raised by groups including RACQ and Brisbane City Council, which argued the lower speed limit could push riders onto roads and create safety and balance issues.
The inquiry supported the proposed minimum age requirement but recommended exemptions to the driver’s licence rule for people unable to obtain licences due to disability, age, or medical conditions.
Disability advocates warned the original laws could unfairly restrict access to transport and public participation for some people.
The committee also called for broader definitions of approved e-mobility devices and a statewide certification system for compliant bikes. The Queensland government now has three months to respond to the recommendations.