E-bikes have been increasing in popularity — they make cycling more accessible than ever. However, they’ve also been linked to tragic accidents.

In response, the Queensland government has conducted a parliamentary inquiry into e-mobility devices, including e-scooters and e-bikes.

The inquiry aimed to improve safety and address community concerns. It examined benefits, risks (crashes or battery fires), existing regulations compared to other jurisdictions, enforcement approaches, and importation laws.

The resulting report recommends banning all e-bikes for riders under 16, and requiring at least a learner driver’s license to operate them.

If implemented, Queensland would become only the second jurisdiction in the world to mandate a driver’s license for riding a standard e-bike, joining New Jersey, which passed similar legislation in January to much condemnation.

If Queensland adopts this rule, it will quickly become the worst state for cycling in Australia — and set a dangerous precedent.

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