Queensland Police Service (QPS) is urging parents to learn and understand their legal responsibilities when considering gifting e-scooters or e-bikes this Christmas, reminding families that purchasing an e-mobility device does not grant children permission to ride unsupervised.
With the continued rise in popularity of PMDs across Queensland, police are reinforcing that safe use begins at home, with parents and carers making informed choices, understanding the rules and legislation, and actively supervising young riders.
This message follows the recent launch of Operation X-Ray Surety, which encourages the community to think ahead, stay informed, and take steps to reduce road trauma and protect our most vulnerable road users.
Tragically, so far this year, 13 lives have been lost on Queensland roads while riding e-mobility devices.
Road Policing Group Chief Superintendent Mark Wheeler reiterates that while e-scooters and e-bikes can be exciting gifts, they require active parental oversight, not a 'set-and-forget' approach.
"E-scooters and e-bikes might look like the perfect Christmas surprise, but they come with responsibilities," Chief Superintendent Wheeler said.
"Buying an e-mobility device doesn't give your child free rein to ride it whenever or however they want – it means you, as the parent or carer, need to know the rules and supervise them appropriately.
"Supervision isn't optional, it's part of keeping them safe. If a young rider breaks the rules, it will not only result in enforcement action, but it is dangerous to themselves and other road and pathway users."
Police continue to see risky behaviour among inexperienced riders, and remind families that safe riding includes:
- wearing an approved helmet
- riding responsibly and following the road rules
- being alert around roads, driveways, and pedestrians
- keeping speeds appropriate and controlled
- understanding that PMDs are not toys.
Chief Superintendent Wheeler said police are doing everything they can to prevent people being injured or killed on our roads.
"Our goal is always to keep Queenslanders safe," Chief Superintendent Wheeler said.
"If you choose to gift a PMD this Christmas, pair it with supervision, guidance, and an understanding of the rules – that's the best present you can give your child."
QPS will continue working with road safety partners as part of Operation X-ray Surety, promoting informed decision-making that reduces risk and keeps families safe on Queensland roads.
Co-ordinating with the North Pole, QPS have received a letter from Santa asking his elves to make informed decisions when purchasing these devices, giving them the option to check their device and check it twice to ensure it is compliant.
For more information about e-mobility rules, safe riding, and responsibilities, visit Street Smarts Queensland.
The Queensland Police Service is committed to reducing the number of lives lost on our roads.
Data shows that serious crashes can be significantly reduced when drivers recognise and avoid the 'Fatal Five' behaviours: speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue and distraction.
Road safety is everyone's responsibility. Learn more about staying safe on Queensland roads: https://www.police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/fatal-five-staying-safe-roads
