The Queensland Government has today announced it will hold a Parliamentary Inquiry into the use of personal e-mobility devices (PMD), such as e-scooters and e-bikes, to improve safety and address community concerns across the state.
The Government says the devices are replacing vehicles and being used more and more as a means of getting to work, education or to link with public transport.
The increased use has raised issues around public safety and, most concerningly, incidents of injuries and fatalities are on the rise, said Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg.
“The Crisafulli Government will hold a Parliamentary Inquiry to ensure we are doing everything we can to boost safety for both pedestrians and riders.
“We want to hear from community members, road use groups, disability advocates, health and trauma experts, academia, the E-mobility industry, and all levels of government.
“It’s important we consider all research and opinions, to ensure a safe and reliable future for e-scooters and e-bikes, especially as we welcome visitors from all over the world for the 2032 Games.”
There was a 112% rise from 2021 to 2024 in injuries to PMD riders, passengers, and pedestrians. Tragically, eight PMD users died last year.
“The increase in injuries and deaths we are seeing because of unsafe and unlawful riding cannot be ignored and I share the community’s concern,” Minister Mickelberg said.
The Parliamentary Inquiry will be established by the State Development, Infrastructure and Works Committee and will focus on the:
- benefits of e-mobility devices;
- safety risks;
- current rules and how they compare with other jurisdictions;
- enforcement approaches;
- importation laws;
- communication and education; and
- stakeholder views.
