Queensland to Prohibit Under-16s from Using Electric Mobility Devices
Synopsis
Queensland, Australia, is set to enforce a ban on children under 16 using electric mobility devices. This decision follows a parliamentary inquiry that highlighted safety concerns, including numerous accidents and injuries. The reforms aim to enhance safety and road knowledge among young riders.
Key Takeaways
Queensland bans under-16s from using electric mobility devices.
New laws require a learner driver's license for e-bike and e-scooter riders.
Speed limits of 10 km/h will be enforced on footpaths.
Police can confiscate illegal devices and conduct breath tests.
The ban aims to enhance child safety amid rising accident rates.
Sydney, March 24 (NationPress) A new safety regulation in the Australian state of Queensland will prohibit children under 16 from operating electric mobility devices. This announcement was made by the state government on Tuesday.
On the same day, Queensland's government confirmed that it has accepted, either fully or in principle, all 28 suggestions from a parliamentary inquiry focused on e-mobility safety, which includes the prohibition for those under 16.
Brent Mickelberg, the transport minister for Queensland, stated that the government plans to present groundbreaking reforms to parliament in the coming days to enact the recommendations from the inquiry.
According to the new laws, riders of e-bikes and e-scooters will be required to possess at least a Queensland learner driver's license. The minimum age for this license is 16, ensuring that riders are familiar with road regulations.
The parliamentary inquiry revealed that in 2025, there were 12 fatalities and over 6,300 injuries associated with e-mobility incidents in Queensland.
"Our decision to ban children under 16 from using these devices is primarily driven by the need to prioritize the safety of our youth," Mickelberg remarked on Tuesday.
The new regulations will also impose a speed limit of 10 km/h for e-mobility devices on footpaths and grant law enforcement the authority to confiscate and destroy illegal devices, as well as subject riders to random breath tests, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
In a related development last year, Australia implemented a pioneering social media ban for individuals under 16, requiring 10 major platforms—including Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, and X—to restrict account creation by this age group.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese noted that this shift aims to assist children in navigating a landscape filled with algorithms and the relentless nature of social media, urging students to maximize their school holiday experiences instead of remaining glued to their screens.
This ban on teen social media usage has garnered significant global attention, with nations such as Denmark, Malaysia, Brazil, Indonesia, and New Zealand reportedly exploring similar initiatives.
Point of View
The recent decision by Queensland to ban under-16s from using electric mobility devices reflects a proactive approach to enhance public safety and address the increasing concerns about accidents involving young riders. This legislation is a significant step in prioritizing the welfare of children in an evolving transport landscape.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What age group will be affected by the new electric mobility device ban in Queensland?
Children younger than 16 will be prohibited from riding electric mobility devices under the new regulations.
What safety measures are included in the new laws?
The laws will require riders to hold a learner driver's license and impose a speed limit of 10 km/h for e-mobility devices on footpaths.
What led to the implementation of these new laws?
The decision followed a parliamentary inquiry that highlighted serious safety concerns, including fatalities and injuries related to e-mobility devices.
How will law enforcement be involved under the new regulations?
Police will have the authority to seize illegal devices and conduct random breath tests on riders.
Is this regulation part of a broader initiative regarding youth safety?
Yes, it follows Australia's social media ban for under-16s, reflecting a commitment to improve safety for children in various aspects of their lives.
