E-bikes and e-scooters are becoming an increasingly important part of Melbourne's transport network. Council is working to ensure the benefits enjoyed by responsible riders of e-bikes and e-scooters are not undermined by unsafe behaviour, poor compliance and regulatory gaps.
Every day, residents use them to travel to work, connect with public transport, complete the school run, visit local shops and access places that may not be well-serviced by trams or buses. They can help reduce congestion and provide a practical alternative to private vehicle use. Council supports the role of micromobility as part of a safer, more connected and more sustainable transport system.
At the same time, Council has heard growing community concerns about unsafe riding behaviour, modified devices and inadequate regulation. In April 2026, Council unanimously resolved to advocate to the State and Federal Governments for stronger safety standards, regulation and enforcement relating primarily to privately owned e-bikes, e-scooters and e-moto bikes.
Understanding the difference
It is important to distinguish between privately owned devices and shared devices.
Council has successfully advocated to the state government for greater regulatory powers to manage shared micro-mobility (Lime and Neuron). Operators must now demonstrate they are equipped with market leading safety technology including footpath detection technology, helmet lock detection and parking restriction enforcement through GPS geofencing.
