NSW Government Plans to Legalise E-Scooters on Roads and Shared Paths

The NSW Government has proposed a major policy change that would legalise the use of e-scooters on public roads and shared paths across the state, provided riders are over 16 years old.

Currently banned except in trial areas, the new plan would allow e-scooters on:

Shared paths (10–20 km/h speed limit)

Roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or lower (max speed 20 km/h)
They would remain banned on faster roads.

The changes aim to align NSW with other Australian states and respond to a Parliamentary inquiry that found current laws outdated. The proposal also includes:

Reviewing the definition of e-bikes

Exploring footpath riding for some users

Introducing safety standards to reduce lithium battery fire risks (275 fires recorded in 2024)

Encouraging voluntary safety tests for riders

Transport Minister John Graham said the plan seeks to strike the right balance between embracing micromobility and addressing public safety. Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison added the current system is “confusing” and that the new rules would simplify enforcement.

However, pedestrian safety advocates have raised serious concerns about potential overcrowding and safety hazards on footpaths.

The final report and recommendations will be tabled in Parliament today.