General News
12 August, 2026
New rules in force for mobility devices
TABLELANDS police are taking a more engagement and education approach to new e-bike laws which came into effect last month.
From 1 July, new e-scooter and e-bike laws came into force across Queensland, including stricter speed limits, stronger police enforcement powers and higher penalties for unsafe behaviours such as speeding, not wearing a helmet, careless riding, carrying passengers illegally, and using personal mobility devices in prohibited areas.
Devices capable of exceeding 25 km/h have also been banned, with police now able to seize and destroy illegal devices.
From 31 August, further changes will take effect, including new age and licensing requirements, with riders required to be at least 16 years old and hold a learner licence, subject to some exemptions.
Tablelands Chief Inspector Jason Smith said police had to be cognisant they were dealing with youth on many occasions and “we will not be leaving them stranded”.
“But we will be engaging with their parents to ensure they modify their behaviours when it’s against the road rules,” he said.
“There’s an education and engagement space to this and we’re certainly taking advantage of that.
“There are youth on these devices and we don’t want to put them in a dangerous situation by seizing their devices which leaves them stranded and at risk.
“We’re also aware that the kids had been given these bikes prior to the new laws coming in.
“Where we can speak to people and ensure they understand the changes are for a purpose and get them to comply, that’s what we’re looking for.”
Under the stronger laws police can seize and destroy illegal devices; conduct random breath tests; fine parents for under 16s riding illegally; and hand out higher penalties for speeding, failure to wear a helmet, careless riding, illegally carrying passengers and riding e-scooters, e-skateboards or e-unicycles on prohibited roads.
Devices that can go faster than 25km/h are now banned and 12km/h speed limits apply on footpaths and when passing pedestrians on shared paths for e-bikes, e-scooters and other personal mobility devices.
Riders must be 16 with a licence from 31 August. Some exemptions for medical conditions and disabilities, and the ability for 12-17 year olds to ride under parental supervision will apply.
