Ensuring our children’s safety when using e-mobility devices

You may know that the increasing number of children riding e-mobility devices, such as e-scooters and e-bikes, is causing significant concern in our community. These devices can pose a substantial danger to children as they are vulnerable, inexperienced road users.

There are concerningly high numbers of students riding illegal e-bike devices to school.

While you may think the device your child is riding is an e-bike, it may not actually meet the legal requirements for it to be allowed to be ridden in public places.

In relation to e-scooters, the minimum age to ride an e-scooter in Queensland unsupervised is 16 years. However, in many instances, e-scooters are being ridden unsupervised by children under the age of 16.

Rider behaviour is also a significant issue. I am aware that there are reports of riders often taking extreme risks, such as:

• swerving in and out of traffic
• riding at high-speeds, and

• not wearing helmets.

   

This behaviour has resulted in devastating consequences, including injuries and deaths – with data indicating that this trend is on the rise.

For example, recent data from the Gold Coast Hospital and Health Service shows that there were 221 e-mobility related injuries to children aged up to 15 between May 2024 and April 2025, with young males being the leading group injured.

How you can help

I ask that you and your family please take the time to read the information below about the rules for riding e-scooters and e-bikes. I’d also encourage you speak with your children about their riding behaviour, to ensure their safety and the safety of others. 

For more information, visit https://streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au/e-bikes-e-scooters/

StreetSmartsQld features educational videos and other helpful safety tips for riding e-scooters and e-skateboards.