Minute With The Mayor - Mayor Ramon Jayo

New Queensland E-Mobility Laws Now in Effect

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As you may be aware, the Queensland State Government has introduced new e-mobility laws that came into effect on 1 July 2026.

The new laws are designed to strengthen enforcement measures and address community concerns regarding the safe use of e-mobility devices.

It is important that our community is aware of these changes, particularly the new path speed limits and the legal responsibilities that now apply to parents and guardians for offences involving children.

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The legislation includes:

• Police powers to seize and destroy illegal devices.

• Random breath testing of riders in public places.

• A ban on e-bikes capable of exceeding 25 kilometres per hour without assistance.

• A 12 km/h speed limit on footpaths and when passing pedestrians on shared paths.

• Increased penalties for offences such as speeding, not wearing a helmet, careless riding, carrying passengers illegally, and riding on prohibited roads.

• Parental accountability for children under 16 using illegal devices.

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Further changes will commence from 31 August 2026, including a minimum rider age of 16 and a requirement for riders to hold at least a learner licence, with limited exemptions.

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Path Speed Limits

A consistent speed limit of 12 km/h now applies to both personal mobility devices and e-bikes when travelling on footpaths. On shared paths, riders must slow to 12 km/h when passing pedestrians.

Please note that all footpaths within the Hinchinbrook Shire are deemed to be shared paths.

While shared paths may be signposted, signage is not required under the new laws. There is no expectation that local governments install additional signage to support the new speed limits.

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Parking Offences

A new parking offence has also been introduced.

Authorised officers, including Queensland Police Service and local government officers, may issue a $172 fine if an e-mobility device is parked on a pathway in a hazardous or obstructive manner.

Authorised officers also have the power to request information from e-mobility providers about the last user of a device to assist with enforcement activities.

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Keeping Our Community Safe

We all have a role to play in improving e-mobility safety. By understanding and complying with these changes, we can help keep our footpaths safe for pedestrians and all path users.

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