The SA Government has officially passed new legislation that will soon allow privately-owned e-scooters and other personal mobility devices on public roads and paths across the state. This development follows the successful passing of the Statutes Amendment (Personal Mobility Devices) Bill 2024 through state parliament.
From early 2025, South Australians will have the freedom to operate e-scooters, e-skateboards, and unicycles on public paths and roads without the need for vehicle registration or rider licensing. As preparation, an education campaign will be launched to familiarise future riders with the new regulations.
The decision to amend current regulations was strengthened by feedback from the community, where an overwhelming majority of participants in a Government-run yourSAy survey last year showed support for the initiative. Eighty-seven percent of respondents supported the use of e-scooters on public roads and paths.
Right now, privately-owned e-scooters are only permitted in Adelaide on trial-conditions. These trials are happening in the CBD, North Adelaide, and parts of Norwood, Payneham, and St Peters. The conditions limit riders to using scooters from commercial e-scooter fleet operators such as Beam and Neuron.
The South Australian Government has announced plans to conduct a thorough review of the new e-scooter laws after their first year in effect. This review aims to evaluate the efficiency, safety, and overall fit of the regulations within the state’s transport environment. Collaboration with the crossbench was pivotal in reaching a consensus for this review period.
The Department for Infrastructure and Transport will organise a roundtable, including members from the Centre for Automotive Safety Research, industry experts, and other stakeholders. The focus will be on drafting regulations focused on speed limits, machine dimensions, rider age requirements, and designated areas where these devices can be operated.
Tom Koutsantonis, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, says, “South Australians have made it very clear that they want an ongoing model that allows for e-scooters to be used as a mode of transport on our roads and I am pleased we are going to deliver future-proof regulations to make it safe for all road users.”
“The passing of this legislation is an important milestone for our transport system, and will ensure that all South Australians can enjoy the sustainability and mobility benefits of e-scooters and other personal mobility devices,” Koutsantonis added. He also expressed his willingness to engage with expert stakeholders in the upcoming roundtable discussions.
Greens Transport Spokesperson, Robert Simms MLC, says, “The Greens have long argued for the laws around e-scooters to be reformed in SA. These devices can play an important role in reducing congestion and carbon emissions,” Simms said. He acknowledged the government’s commitment to a review after 12 months as a critical step towards fine-tuning the regulatory framework.
This new legislative direction in South Australia marks a significant step towards integrating personal transport solutions into the everyday lives of its South Australians, contributing to a more connected and environmentally conscious community.
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