Electric Scooter Laws Across Australian States
Electric scooters have become increasingly popular across Australia, but the rules for riding them vary significantly from state to state. Whether you're a commuter, student, or just looking for a fun way to get around, it's essential to understand the legal requirements in your area. Here's a comprehensive guide to e-scooter laws across each Australian state.
New South Wales (NSW)
In NSW, private e-scooters remain illegal on public roads, paths, and bike lanes. However, you can ride in designated council or state-approved trials. Riding on private property is permitted, and shared e-scooter schemes operate under permit in trial areas. If you're riding in an approved trial, always wear a helmet and follow general road rules.
Queensland (QLD)
Queensland has some of the more permissive e-scooter laws in Australia. E-scooters are classified as personal mobility devices and are legal on public paths and some roads. Speed limits vary by location: footpaths and shared paths have a maximum speed of 12 km/h, while separated bike paths and roads with bike lanes allow up to 25 km/h. You must be at least 16 years old to ride (or 12 with adult supervision). Remember to keep left, give way to pedestrians, and observe general road laws.
Victoria (VIC)
Victoria permits e-scooters if they meet the legal definition: two wheels, one rider, and a maximum speed of 25 km/h. You can ride on shared use paths and roads with speed limits of 60 km/h or less, but footpaths are off-limits. A helmet is required, and you must be at least 16 years old. The maximum riding speed is capped at 20 km/h.
South Australia (SA)
As of 13 July 2025, e-scooters and personal mobility devices are legal on public roads and paths in South Australia if they meet compliance requirements. You must be 16 or older, and a helmet is mandatory. Speed limits depend on where you're riding: footpaths, shared paths, and beaches have a 10 km/h limit, while bike paths and roads with bike lanes allow up to 25 km/h. You can ride on roads with speed limits of 60 km/h or less, and no licence or registration is required.
Western Australia (WA)
In Western Australia, only riders aged 16 and over can use e-scooters and other eRideables. Your device must meet specific requirements: maximum speed of 25 km/h, weight of 25 kg or less, and designed for one person. E-scooters are allowed on footpaths, shared paths, bike lanes, and roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or less. A helmet is mandatory.
Northern Territory (NT)
The Northern Territory has stricter regulations. Only hire e-scooters are legal on public footpaths, shared paths, and bike lanes. Private e-scooters are illegal on public roads and paths, though you can use them on private property. You must be at least 18 years old to hire and ride, and a helmet is required. Don't use your mobile phone while riding, give way to pedestrians, and be aware that BAC limits apply.
Tasmania (TAS)
Tasmania classifies e-scooters as personal mobility devices under transport rules. Your device must have a maximum speed of 25 km/h, weigh no more than 45 kg, and be designed for one rider. For specific information about where you can ride, check Tasmania's road safety resources, as rules around paths and roads follow general personal mobility device laws.
Key Safety Tips
Regardless of which state you're in, always wear an approved helmet—most states require it. Follow local path and road speed limits, and be aware that councils can set additional rules beyond state regulations. E-scooter laws are evolving, so before you ride, check your state's transport website for the latest updates and requirements.
