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RAA has made its submission to the State Government’s review of personal mobility device (PMD) legislation (which first came into effect in July 2025) and current e-bike laws.
In addition to a 16-year minimum age for e-bike riders, RAA’s submission also recommends:
RAA research has found rule awareness remains alarmingly low, with around 8 in 10 road users unaware of current speed limits and age restrictions.
Earlier this year RAA launched its Don’t bury your head in the footpath – Face the facts campaign to lift awareness, and RAA Senior Manager Road Safety and Infrastructure Charles Mountain said more education and tougher enforcement was needed.
“E-scooters and e-bikes are a legitimate transport option for many South Australians looking for more ways to get around, and can help take pressure off our roads,” Mr Mountain said.
“But as more people take them up, it’s important we get the safety settings right before poor behaviours become entrenched.
“We’ve seen a growing number of high-powered, modified devices that are essentially unregistered motorcycles, capable of speeds well beyond what’s legal, and they’re becoming more common on our roads, footpaths and shared paths
“Giving SA Police the power to seize and, where appropriate, destroy these illegal devices, and publicising when it happens, has been a successful deterrent interstate.
“We’d also like to see more education and tougher enforcement of things like helmet wearing, speed limits and age restrictions.
“We also want to see a minimum age of 16 for e-bike riders, as has been introduced in other states, given the extra power and weight of these devices. It would also align them with the minimum age for e-scooters.
“We know some younger riders use e-bikes safely and responsibly, but on balance we think safety should come first.”
According to SAPOL data, so far this year (to 15 August) there have been two lives lost, and 129 injuries involving e-scooters and e-bikes
AMA SA President Associate Professor Peter Subramaniam said “AMA SA stands with RAA in calling for evidence-based e-bike reforms that put safety first, including a minimum riding age of 16.
“E-bikes are not toys. They are typically heavier than regular bicycles and capable of travelling at sustained speeds of 25 km/h – even faster when illegally modified. Children are still developing the judgement, coordination and hazard awareness needed to ride them safely.
“Doctors see the consequences in emergency departments far too often. We treat serious injuries including head trauma, chest and abdominal injuries, and major fractures, many involving riders who are simply too young to safely manage the risks.
“E-bikes can be a great way to get people active and provide a practical transport option. But for children under 16, the risks outweigh the benefits, particularly when traditional bicycles offer many of the same advantages without the added dangers.”
To read RAA’s full submission visit https://www.raa.com.au/about-raa/advocacy/submissions
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