Victoria will expand the use of shared e-scooters and introduce new safety regulations from October. This follows a successful two-year trial in regional and metropolitan areas.
The new regulations will make e-scooters legal on a permanent basis, with enhanced safety measures and stricter compliance rules. Key changes include increased fines for offences such as riding on pavements, not wearing a helmet, drinking alcohol while riding and riding without a licence. New fines will also be introduced for riding as a passenger and not wearing a helmet as a passenger.
The Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) will work with councils and e-scooter operators to implement additional safety measures. These will include pavement detection technology and other innovations to improve safety for both riders and pedestrians.
Next year, new legislation will set out requirements for e-scooter operators, including minimum standards for operating in different communities. This will include safety trials and the introduction of technologies such as sidewalk detection, cognitive reaction testing to address impaired driving, and helmet verification systems.
Current road rules will remain in place: riders must wear helmets, avoid footpaths, be at least 16 years old and not drink and drive. E-scooters are limited to a maximum speed of 20 km/h and can only be used on roads with a speed limit of 60 km/h or less.
E-scooters will only be allowed in council areas that have agreements with operators. The DTP will continue to support councils with guidance on the management of e-scooter schemes, including parking and insurance requirements.
New regulations, including the option for e-scooters to have seats, will come into force in October 2024, accompanied by a safety campaign in partnership with the TAC.