E-scooters legalised across Victoria

SHARE hire scooters will be permanently legalised in Victoria following a successful two-year trial in regional areas and metropolitan Melbourne.

The Victorian government will introduce new rules including tougher penalties for misuse and mandated technology to improve safety.

“We know there have been safety concerns, and that’s why we have thoroughly assessed their use and are introducing some of the toughest new laws in the country to make e-scooter safety,” Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams said.

As part of the changes, fines will increase for offences including riding on the footpath, not wearing a helmet, drinking alcohol and underage riding.

Riding as a passenger and not wearing a helmet will also incur a significant fine.

Rules around speed limits and the use of helmets will remain unchanged, with the speed limit set at 20kmh, and the e-scooters can only be ridden on roads with a maximum speed limit of 60kmh.

The increased infringements and new rules for users will come into effect from October.

“E-scooters are here to stay – they’ve proven popular among commuters, especially shift workers, providing an additional option to travel home safely,” Ms Williams said.

The Department of Transport and Planning will work closely with councils and e-scooter operators to introduce safeguards for share hire e-scooters for the safety of riders and pedestrians.

Safety technology includes footpath detection technology, cognitive reaction testing to reduce drink and drug-affected riders, disabling scooters without attached helmets and more.

New legislation will be introduced next year for e-scooter share hire operators, which will apply to councils to operate in their municipalities.

Share hire e-scooters are only legal in council areas with an agreement with operators.

The government will work with councils who choose to introduce the scheme. For more information about e-scooter use in Victoria, head to vicroads.vic.gov.au/safety-and-road-rules/e-scooters-in-victoria