Electric scooter laws in Australia
Electric scooters are classified as "non-road vehicles" by the Australian Government. Australia is governed by the Motor Vehicles Standard Act 1989 but rules and regulations defining the use and importation of electric scooters is dependent on legislation administered by the local council.
The law regarding electric scooters vary per state. As a quick summary, see the table below:
STATE | PUBLIC SPACE USE? | PRIVATE PROPERTY? | MAX MOTOR WATTAGE | MAX SPEED |
QLD | YES | YES | NO MAXIMUM | 25 KM/H |
NSW | NO | YES | N/A | N/A |
VIC | NO | YES | 200 WATTS | 10 KM/H |
ACT | YES | YES | NO MAXIMUM | 25 KM/H |
SA | NO | YES | N/A | N/A |
WA | YES | YES | 200 WATTS | 10 KM/H |
NT | YES | YES | 200 WATTS | N/A |
TAS | NO | YES | 200 WATTS | 10 KM/H |
Researching scooter laws may be lot to take in but something as important is riding safely. Always wear your helmet securely, do not drink and ride, and focus on the road avoiding mobile phone use. Be kind and share the road or footpath. The above table serves only as a guide and may be outdated as of writing. No guarantee that the information is accurate or up to date due to continuous alteration in this field. Please do your own research to ensure you are informed. Further links per state are provided below:
QLD: Rules for personal mobility devices
NSW: Skateboards, foot scooters and rollerblades
VIC: Hoverboards, Segways and other motorised personal mobility devices
ACT: Personal mobility device use in the ACT
SA: Rules for Riding Motorised Scooters and Skateboards in South Australia
WA: E-scooter rules and regulations in WA