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Kids and parents love e-bikes for getting kids outdoors, off screens, and building independence, but the reality is most bikes are unlocked to go faster than they’re allowed, and police can’t issue fines to kids (though they can confiscate bikes).
In August, Mona Vale Surf Club was buzzing with debate and ideas on how to strike the right balance. Alongside the Federal Member for Mackellar, because this is a state, federal and local government issue, I hosted a community forum on e-bike safety. The room was full: parents, teachers, young riders, doctors, police, pedestrian advocates, and older locals, all eager to share experiences and help shape solutions. It was a powerful reminder of how much Pittwater values working together to keep our community safe.
The panel reflected that diversity: trauma specialists who see the injuries first-hand, Northern Beaches Police, Transport for NSW, Mayor Sue Heins, advocacy groups and a youth advocate. Every perspective was heard.
One clear takeaway: the current rules on e-bikes are confusing and inconsistent. Parents said it’s hard to know what’s legal. Police described enforcement limits. Doctors highlighted pedestrian risks. Young riders admitted they need clearer guidance too.
With the state government set to roll out its e-Micromobility Strategy, including legalising e-scooters and expanding footpath access, our community is united in wanting to keep pedestrians safe. We heard about Cronulla’s trial of a school-based licensing and registration system. Here in Pittwater, where kids already get boat licences, I’m pushing for a similar system for e-bikes to build education, responsibility, and accountability.
At a federal level, national import standards need reform. At a state level, I’ll keep working with schools, parents, police, and Transport for NSW on practical solutions, including etiquette for both kids and older riders, since the issues go both ways.
I’ve invited all P&Cs to sit down with me so parents and kids can be part of the conversation.
I know some argue against regulation, saying kids should just be kids, that riding unlocked bikes at 50 km/h without helmets or licences is no different to skateboards in our day. But in reality, those speeds make them mopeds without safety features like mirrors. We have already seen serious accidents across Australia, including young riders losing their lives, children injured in collisions, and even tragic cases where e-bikes have been involved in fatalities. These incidents show why regulation is necessary to strike the right balance.
The let it rip approach will only end in tragedy, followed by rushed policies introduced in the aftermath of high-profile incidents. We should be strategic and adopt best practice now, rather than repeat Queensland and WA’s struggles with deaths, antisocial behaviour, and reactive solutions.
You can watch a highlight reel of the forum and follow my work to ensure this isn’t just talk but real change. My advice to anyone buying a bike: buy legal and keep it legal. Don’t unlock it for off-road use. A crackdown on illegal bikes and riding is coming, so keep your powder dry.
Stay safe, don’t risk losing the bikes — keep within the rules.
— Jacqui Scruby, State Member for Pittwater
Suite 1, 1725 Pittwater Rd, Mona Vale NSW 2103
P: 9999 3599
E: pittwater@parliament.nsw.gov.au
Authorised by Jacqui Scruby, MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements. September 2025.
