Are Electric Scooters Legal in Australia? 2025 Laws & Regulations Explained
Electric scooters have become a popular choice for urban commuting, recreational riding, and even delivery services. They offer an eco-friendly, efficient, and cost-effective alternative to cars and public transport. However, Australian electric scooter laws vary by state, leading to confusion among riders about where they can legally ride, the speed limits they must follow, and whether they need a license or registration.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the current e-scooter laws across Australia in 2025, covering the latest regulations, penalties, safety requirements, and what changes might be coming shortly.
Understanding Electric Scooter Regulations in Australia
Before jumping into state-specific laws, it’s important to understand why electric scooter regulations exist and what factors influence them.
Why Are There Different E-Scooter Laws in Each State?
Unlike some countries that have national regulations for personal mobility devices, Australia allows each state and territory to govern e-scooter laws independently. This means that what is legal in Queensland might be illegal in New South Wales, leading to inconsistencies in regulations.
Key factors influencing e-scooter laws include:
- Safety concerns – Accidents involving pedestrians and riders have led to restrictions in some states.
- Infrastructure – Some states lack designated lanes for personal electric vehicles.
- Trial programs – States like NSW and SA are still running e-scooter trials before finalizing regulations.
- Legal classification – Some states consider e-scooters as “motor vehicles,” requiring stricter rules.
Because of these differences, riders must be aware of their local laws to avoid fines or confiscation of their scooters.
Electric Scooter Laws in Each Australian State (2025 Update)
New South Wales (NSW) – The Strictest Rules
New South Wales has long been one of the toughest states when it comes to electric scooter laws. As of 2025, private e-scooters are still not allowed on public roads, footpaths, or cycleways.
- Rental e-scooters are permitted only in designated trial areas.
- Fines of up to $2,200 apply for illegal private e-scooter use in public spaces.
- Helmets are mandatory for legal e-scooter riders in trial zones.
However, with ongoing trials, legalization may be on the horizon. The state government is closely monitoring safety data before making a final decision.
Queensland (QLD) – The Most E-Scooter Friendly State
Queensland remains one of the most e-scooter-friendly states, with clear, rider-friendly regulations allowing private e-scooters on public paths and roads.
- Private e-scooters are fully legal on footpaths, shared paths, and local roads (with speed limits of 50 km/h or lower).
- Maximum speeds: 12 km/h on footpaths, 25 km/h on shared paths and roads.
- Helmets are mandatory for all riders.
- E-scooters must have brakes, lights, and a bell or warning device.
Because of these well-defined rules, Brisbane and Gold Coast are major hubs for electric scooter users, with many using them for daily commuting.
Victoria (VIC) – New Legalization Brings Freedom to Riders
Victoria has recently legalized private electric scooters for use on roads, bike lanes, and shared paths, marking a significant step forward.
- Legal on roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or less.
- Speed limit: 20 km/h on roads and shared paths.
- Helmets are required, and riders must be 16 years or older.
With this change, Victoria has aligned its e-scooter laws closer to Queensland’s, giving riders more freedom while maintaining safety regulations.
South Australia (SA) – Trials Still in Progress
South Australia remains in the trial phase regarding private electric scooters.
- Privately owned e-scooters are still illegal on public roads.
- Rental scooters are available in trial zones in Adelaide.
- Heavy fines apply for illegal use of private e-scooters in public areas.
Given the popularity of rental e-scooter trials, there’s hope that South Australia may move toward full legalization in the coming years.
Western Australia (WA) – Clear Laws for E-Scooters
Western Australia allows private electric scooters, with a few restrictions.
- Riders must be at least 16 years old.
- Maximum speed: 10 km/h on footpaths, 25 km/h on roads and shared paths.
- Helmets are required, and standard road rules apply.
With its legal framework, Perth has seen a growing e-scooter market, making it one of the best cities for riders.
Tasmania (TAS) & Australian Capital Territory (ACT) – Progressive Regulations
Both Tasmania and ACT have legalized private e-scooters for public use.
- The maximum speed limit of 25 km/h.
- Helmets are mandatory.
- Riders must be at least 16 years old.
These regions offer some of the best legal environments for electric scooter enthusiasts.
What Are the Fines and Penalties for Illegal Riding?
Each state has different penalties for violating e-scooter laws.
- NSW: Fines up to $2,200 for illegal riding.
- SA: Heavy fines for private e-scooter use.
- QLD, WA, VIC: Fines for exceeding speed limits or not wearing helmets.
Future of Electric Scooter Laws in Australia
With the increasing popularity of electric scooters, legalization in more states is expected in the coming years. NSW and SA may follow Victoria’s lead, allowing private e-scooters under regulated conditions.
Experts predict that by 2026, all Australian states will have clear, consistent e-scooter laws, making them a mainstream part of urban mobility.
Final Thoughts
Electric scooter laws in Australia are evolving, with more states legalizing their use. Whether you’re riding in Queensland, Victoria, or Western Australia, staying informed about regulations is crucial. Scootygoo, a popular platform for e-scooter enthusiasts, helps riders stay up-to-date with the latest legal developments across the country.
As laws continue to change, always check state-specific requirements before riding. Compliance ensures safety, avoids fines, and supports the growing adoption of e-scooters across Australia.
