E-Bikes
Himiway Bikes / Unsplash

The Queensland government is planning to introduce new legislation in parliament this week that seek to ban children under the age of 16 from riding e-bikes and e-scooters.

Those who are legally allowed to ride these devices will be required to have a learner licence.

This comes after an inquiry was conducted on e-bikes and e-scooters. The government is expected to endorse all 28 recommendations made by a landmark committee's 185-page report.

Queensland Seeks New E-Bike Legislation

According to Sky News, the legislation proposes that parents should be face a fine should those under the age of 16 incur a penalty for riding e-bikes and e-scooters.

"We are banning under16s from these devices because the safety of kids is paramount," Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg said at a press conference.

"We've taken the time to get this right, and our reforms strike the right balance between keeping Queenslanders safe from those who do the wrong thing, while backing the Queenslanders who do the right thing," he added.

The proposed legislation also gives powers to Queensland Police Service officers to conduct random breath tests.

It likewise proposes a limited speed of 10 kilometres per hour on footpaths for such electric devices.

Legislation Also Targets Those 'Medically Unfit to Drive'

Aside from children under the age of 16, the proposed legislation also seeks to ban those "medically unfit to drive" from riding e-bikes and e-scooters.

It should be noted that e-wheelchair and other accessibility device users will be exempted.

According to ABC News, Mickelberg said that "Those who have a disability and are able to use an aid to mobility right now, regardless of whether that's powered by an electric motor or otherwise, will continue to be able to do so."

"What will not be facilitated is the use of e-bikes, for example, unless an individual is medically fit to drive, holds at least a Learner licence permit, and is at least 16 years of age," he clarified.