Controversial share hire scooters going nowhere

THE now-familiar purple share hire e-scooters that have been dotted around Bendigo since late May are here for good after being permanently legalised following a two-year statewide trial.

Tough new penalties for riders caught breaking the law have also been announced, with anyone seen travelling without a helmet to be fined $395.

Those caught riding on the footpath will be fined $296 and anyone carrying a passenger will be penalised $247.

Anyone riding as a pillion passenger – which has always been illegal – will also face a new fine of at least $247, which will increase to $642 if they’re not wearing a helmet.

Riders caught travelling under the influence of drugs or alcohol will also have their vehicle licence automatically suspended and have an interlock fitted to their vehicle for at least six months.

Road rules remain unchanged, with riders needing to be at least 16 years old, not travel at more than 20 kilometres per hour, and only ride on roads with a maximum speed limit of 60 kilometres per hour.

Minister for public and active transport Gabrielle Williams said e-scooters have proven (a) popular option for Victorians to travel home safely, and the state government is improving awareness of Victoria’s strengthened laws to keep riders unharmed.

“We know there have been safety concerns, and that’s why we’re introducing some of the toughest new laws in the country, alongside a new education campaign to make them safer,” he said.

Further information can be found on the Transport Victoria website.