THE Queensland Government has announced a Parliamentary Inquiry into the safety and regulation of personal e-mobility devices (PMDs), such as e-scooters and e-bikes, following a sharp rise in injuries and fatalities.
Led by the State Development, Infrastructure and Works Committee, the inquiry will examine current safety risks, how Queensland’s rules compare with other jurisdictions, enforcement practices, importation laws and public education efforts.
According to government data, there was a 112 per cent increase in injuries to PMD riders, passengers and pedestrians between 2021 and 2024.
Eight PMD users died last year.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Brent Mickelberg said improving safety for all road users and pedestrians was a top priority.
“The increase in injuries and deaths we are seeing because of unsafe and unlawful riding cannot be ignored and I share the community’s concern,” Mr Mickelberg said.
“It’s important we consider all research and opinions, to ensure a safe and reliable future for e-scooters and e-bikes, especially as we welcome visitors from all over the world for the 2032 Games.”
State Member for Oodgeroo Amanda Stoker said she regularly heard from constituents concerned about safety and noise issues caused by e-mobility devices.
“E-scooter and e-bike use has exploded in our community – but so too have the injuries they are causing to riders and pedestrians alike,” Ms Stoker said.
“Complaints about e-bike noise have risen dramatically, showing an impact on otherwise quiet streets.
“Yet for some people, they deliver independence and a useful link to public transport.
“It’s important we get the legal framework right, so that users have clear and fair rules and so pedestrian safety and local amenity isn’t compromised.
“This inquiry is a chance for locals with experiences to be heard and to shape the future of their use.
“I encourage Redlanders to seize this chance to have their say.”
RACQ has also welcomed the Government’s move after years of advocating for e-scooter reform.
A three-year research partnership between RACQ and the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital Foundation, conducted by the Jamieson Trauma Institute (JTI), found reform was needed to address the severity of life-changing injuries and fatalities.
General Manager of Advocacy Joshua Cooney said the inquiry was a necessary and sensible step towards change.
“We cannot deny that e-scooters have become a popular mode of transport across the State and will continue to become increasingly important in the mobility landscape,” Mr Cooney said.
“Our members and the research tell us that we must find ways to co-exist and make them safer for all road users.”
RACQ is advocating for full-faced helmets to be made mandatory for private stand-up e-scooters.
It also wants rental scooter companies to transition to more stable, sit-down designs with lower centres of gravity for riders.
