E-scooter laws in Australia are different in every state and territory. Some states let you ride freely on roads and paths, others restrict you to shared paths only, and one state still bans privately owned e-scooters from public spaces entirely. It's confusing — and getting it wrong can mean fines, demerit points, or even having your scooter confiscated.
This guide breaks down the current rules state by state so you know exactly where you stand before you ride. We update this page regularly, but laws in this space are changing fast — always double-check your state's official transport website for the latest.
Last updated: April 2026
South Australia
Status: Legal since 13 July 2025
South Australia legalised privately owned e-scooters and other personal mobility devices (PMDs) for use on public roads and paths from 13 July 2025. No licence, registration, or insurance is required.
Your e-scooter must meet these requirements to be legal in SA:
- Designed for use by one person only
- Powered by an electric motor
- No more than 1,250 mm long, 700 mm wide, and 1,350 mm high
- Weighs no more than 45 kg
- Meets the AUS/NZ electrical safety standard
Where you can ride and speed limits:
| Where | Max Speed |
|---|---|
| Footpaths, shared paths, beaches, crossing roads | 10 km/h |
| Separated bike paths and bike lanes (road speed ≤50 km/h) | 25 km/h |
| Roads with speed limit ≤50 km/h | 25 km/h |
| Bicycle lane on a 60 km/h road (e-scooters only) | 25 km/h |
Other key rules:
- Helmet is mandatory (approved bicycle or motorbike helmet)
- No passengers — one rider per device
- Alcohol and drug laws apply — you can be charged and lose demerit points
- E-scooters are not allowed on Adelaide Metro public transport (trains, trams, buses)
- You must not ride where bicycles are prohibited
The SA Government committed to reviewing these laws after their first 12 months (July 2026), so keep an eye out for any changes.
Victoria
Status: Legal (with restrictions)
Victoria legalised privately owned e-scooters, but the rules are more restrictive than some other states. Your e-scooter must have a maximum speed of 25 km/h and weigh no more than 45 kg.
Key rules:
- Helmet is mandatory
- Riding on footpaths is not allowed — you must use bike lanes, bike paths, shared paths, or roads
- No passengers or animals
- E-scooter offences can result in the loss of your driver licence or permit
The shared e-scooter trial in Melbourne has concluded, though hire schemes continue in some council areas outside the City of Melbourne.
Official Victoria e-scooter rules →
New South Wales
Status: Privately owned e-scooters are ILLEGAL on public land
NSW remains the most restrictive state. As of 2026, it is illegal to ride a privately owned e-scooter on any public road, footpath, shared path, or bike lane. You can only ride on private property.
Shared e-scooter hire schemes operate in some trial areas, but you cannot use your own scooter in those zones.
NSW is actively considering changes — including potential age limits and insurance requirements — but for now, privately owned e-scooters remain banned in public.
Official NSW e-scooter rules →
Queensland
Status: Legal (major changes coming mid-2026)
Queensland has been one of the most e-scooter-friendly states, allowing them on footpaths, shared paths, and some roads. E-scooters must be designed for one person, weigh no more than 60 kg, and be electric-powered.
Current speed limits:
- Footpaths: 12 km/h
- Bike lanes and roads: 25 km/h
Major reforms expected from 1 July 2026:
Queensland is introducing sweeping changes following a parliamentary inquiry. Key changes include:
- Licence required: Riders over 16 will need at least a learner's driver licence ($77.55 for a 3-year licence)
- Under-16s banned from riding any e-mobility device on public land
- Footpath speed reduced to 10 km/h
- Random breath testing for e-scooter riders
- Police will have powers to seize and destroy non-compliant devices on first offence
- Fines of up to $6,700 for serious offences
These laws are expected to take effect from 1 July 2026 with a six-month transition period.
Western Australia
Status: Legal
WA classifies e-scooters as "eRideables" and allows them on public paths and roads under certain conditions.
Device requirements:
- Maximum speed: 25 km/h on level ground
- Maximum weight: 25 kg
- Maximum dimensions: 125 cm long, 70 cm wide, 135 cm high
Key rules:
- Riders must be at least 16 years old
- Helmet is mandatory
- Footpath speed: 10 km/h
- Shared paths and local roads under 50 km/h: 25 km/h
- Alcohol and drug limits apply
Tasmania
Status: Legal since December 2021
Tasmania was one of the earlier states to legalise e-scooters. Devices must not exceed 25 km/h, weigh no more than 45 kg, and meet the same dimension limits as WA (125 cm × 70 cm × 135 cm).
General road rules apply, and helmets are required.
ACT (Australian Capital Territory)
Status: Legal
The ACT permits e-scooters with a top speed of 25 km/h on bike paths and shared paths. Helmets are mandatory, and riders must follow local bylaws.
E-scooters are not permitted on roads unless there is no footpath, shared path, or nature strip available next to the road.
Northern Territory
Status: Privately owned e-scooters are effectively banned
The NT does not allow privately owned e-scooters on public roads or paths. The government encourages the use of hired e-scooter schemes instead. There is no clear regulatory framework for private devices at this stage.
Quick Comparison Table
| State | Private E-Scooters Legal? | Max Speed | Helmet? | Min Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SA | Yes (since July 2025) | 25 km/h | Yes | None specified |
| VIC | Yes | 25 km/h | Yes | None specified |
| NSW | No (private property only) | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| QLD | Yes (new restrictions July 2026) | 25 km/h | Yes | 16 (from July 2026) |
| WA | Yes | 25 km/h | Yes | 16 |
| TAS | Yes (since Dec 2021) | 25 km/h | Yes | None specified |
| ACT | Yes | 25 km/h | Yes | None specified |
| NT | No (hire only) | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Tips for Staying Legal
- Check the specs before you buy. Make sure any e-scooter you're looking at meets your state's weight, speed, and size limits. A scooter that's legal in QLD might not be legal in WA due to the lower weight limit.
- Always wear a helmet. It's required in every state where e-scooters are legal, and it's good practice regardless.
- Know your speed zones. Most states have lower speed limits on footpaths (10–12 km/h) compared to bike lanes and roads (25 km/h). Getting this wrong is one of the most common fines.
- Don't drink and ride. Alcohol and drug laws apply to e-scooter riders in every state. You can lose demerit points and face court.
- Bookmark your state's official page. Laws are changing rapidly — what's legal today might have new conditions added next month.
Find the Right E-Scooter
If you're looking for an e-scooter that's compliant with Australian regulations, browse our range of e-scooters at Kinetic Outdoor Sports. Not sure which one suits your state's rules? Get in touch and we'll help you find the right fit.
For tips on riding safely once you've got your scooter, check out our guide to riding an e-scooter safely.