The NSW Government urgently needs to play catch-up with e-bikes and e-scooter reform and implement the sensible recommendations of its parliamentary report, says Jacqui Scruby, independent MP for Pittwater.  

The report of the NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into the Use of E-Scooters, E-Bikes and Other Related Mobility Devices, highlights the current lack of infrastructure, regulation and enforcement for e-bikes and e-scooters that is a serious safety risk to riders, other road users and pedestrians. 

“Fat bikes are a Northern Beaches cultural revolution, but we need regulations and better enforcement that strike the balance between safety and freedom. Currently there are major regulatory gaps resulting in illegal e-bikes doing 50km/hr on footpaths, risking the lives of pedestrians, or driving on our roads as effective unregistered motor bikes, not subject to road rules. The NSW Government needs to jump on its own bike and play catch up with e-bikes.” said Ms Scruby.  

 “Families, kids and many in our community are enjoying the freedom and convenience of e-bikes, but there are inherent risks - not only for riders but also serious risks for pedestrians and drivers. I'm a firm supporter of improved regulation and better enforcement. 

“I receive a lot of correspondence regarding e-Bikes. Our community is distinctly divided - with many older constituents concerned about safety - whilst younger families love the freedom e-bikes offer. The mobility means kids can get around more independently, access the beach and be outdoors with friends, benefits that can’t be underestimated.” 

“The NSW Parliamentary Inquiry report is a thorough and extensive review, but I am disappointed by the lack alternative recommendations and detail in the dissenting comments.  

Ms Scruby also points out that whilst a 15km/hr speed limit is welcome, not all users should be allowed on footpaths, and such a recommendation seems inconsistent with the expert submissions made to the inquiry. 

“I welcome many of the recommendations from the Inquiry but there are a few things that must be called out. In regards to the speed limit, the Inquiry recommendations represent a shift when it comes to existing bike on footpath laws and now e-bikes on footpaths. We’ve gone from only allowing under 16s and accompanying parents to ride bikes on footpaths to a free for all for e-bikes, with everyone, including adults, allowed to ride e-bikes and e-scooters on footpaths.  Footpaths shouldn’t be treated like shared paths and should remain limited to under 16s with a speed limit that’s enforced.” 

“I think it is also important for the community to have their say on the recommendations. I’d like to hear what everyone thinks. I have launched a survey and I am also planning a town hall meeting.” 

Ms Scruby said that work should start immediately with Recommendation 7, which is for the NSW government to regulate e-bikes in close consultation with local councils, enforcement agencies and industry representatives and community groups. 

Ms Scruby said she supports powers to regulate suppliers and confiscate bikes that are non-compliant or when users breach rules including not wearing a helmet, speeding or failing to give way to pedestrians. 

“A few confiscations, particularly given the cost of e-bikes, would go a long way to shifting shift the attitude of some users from entitlement to one of respect.” 

She also highlighted that there is already precedent for a licencing process.  

“In Pittwater, we’re very familiar with the boat licence process that is accessible from the age of twelve. A similar process to become an e-bike rider together with limitations on bike specifications and age would not only improve safety but engrain a respect for the rules, risks and courtesy to pedestrians.  

“My priority is to see e-bikes integrated safely into our transport infrastructure so that we gain all the advantages and minimise the risk, and I urge the government to respond promptly.”