Calls for urgent reforms to address the rising dangers of reckless electric bike and
scooter use have been reignited in Queensland Parliament, with Noosa MP Sandy
Bolton delivering a passionate adjournment speech in April and now welcoming the
announcement of a formal Parliamentary Inquiry.
“Just recently we had another young Queenslander critically hurt. How many injuries
or deaths will it take to resolve this?” Sandy told Parliament. “We have been raising
the danger since 2022. Yes, there has been some action; however, it has not been
enough.”
While February 2024 laws strengthened enforcement powers, Sandy said critical
gaps remain. Local police continue proactive efforts through street checks, warnings,
infringement notices, and even impounding illegal vehicles, but challenges persist.
“How are police expected to safely chase offenders who are mostly without helmets,
at speeds exceeding that of cars? How can they identify and issue infringement
notices when there is no number plate identification?” she asked.
Sandy also raised concerns over unregulated imports and the lack of oversight on
retailers. “Without licensing, registration, or the ability to insure, how can we move
beyond the current status quo?”
On 1 May, the State Development, Infrastructure and Works Committee announced
a Parliamentary Inquiry into e-bikes and scooters – an outcome welcomed by Sandy
– as a direct result of community advocacy. She urged the inquiry to consider all
evidence and deliver “real improvements for safety on our roads and pathways”.
Following her speech, Sandy submitted recommendations from first responders,
residents and local groups to key ministers. These include school-based education,
insurance and registration for legal devices, stronger enforcement powers, and
council support for regulating riding zones.
She also called for federal reform, especially tighter controls on the import of non-
compliant e-vehicles, citing ongoing illegal purchases online.
Sandy expressed disappointment that a proposed deadline for the committee’s
report by August 2025 was rejected, with the final report now due March 2026.
Residents are encouraged to report unsafe use via Policelink on 131 444 or online at
police.qld.gov.au, and to register security cameras with the Community Camera
Alliance.
