Independent Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby has written to the Transport Minister requesting that the review into age restrictions for e-Bikes include consideration of licensing and registration as part of its terms of reference.
“Licensing and registration are the missing links this government is ignoring. You can’t assess safety without assessing the benefits of simple steps like teaching road rules and you can’t ignore the benefit registration plays in enforcement.”
“If this review is serious about improving safety, it must consider the tools we have to teach riders the rules, the risks and the laws, and assess the benefits of a licensing and registration program. Excluding these options undermines the review’s potential.”
Ms Scruby noted that Pittwater knows the safety benefits and responsibility that is instilled in those 12 years and above through the boat licensing and registration process.
“In Pittwater we have 12 year olds driving boats with respect for the rules and risks. We have enforcement as well, but that’s the last resort, education and responsibility come first.” said Ms Scruby.
“It’s ludicrous to believe you can seize and crush your way out of the e-bike problem, or that age restrictions alone will work. Licensing and registration bring accountability and assist enforcement of the law, also reducing the risks associated with police pursuing people who don’t pull over.”
Ms Scruby notes that we already have laws, but that they are being flouted, and new laws will be flouted also, unless there is a mechanism to identify non-compliance. That mechanism is registration.”
Ms Scruby will introduce her Private Member’s Bill, Road Legislation Amendment (E-Bike Regulation) Bill 2025, to pave the way for licensing and registration, data collection and safety measures.
Ms Scruby has also called on the Minister to confirm the Office of Youth will come to Pittwater to hear from families and young people directly.
“Used responsibly, e-bikes are a fantastic form of active transport and a convenient, healthy option to get about for many people in Pittwater. However, more needs to be done to ensure riders, pedestrians and motorists can safely coexist. Irrespective of age limits - learning the road rules, and having a licence will lead to better safety outcomes.”
ENDS