THE Queensland Government is exploring ways it can regulate and make the use of electric scooters safer across the State.
Transport Minister Mark Bailey held a roundtable discussion on the issue with various stakeholders – including: the Department of Transport and Main Roads, police, e-scooter retailers, users, cyclists, pedestrian groups and health professionals, among others – in Brisbane recently.
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The roundtable discussion was part of Government’s efforts to develop a best practice package to increase safety, understanding and regulation.
Mr Bailey said he was committed to working with stakeholders and advisory groups to find “the best outcome for all.”
He said in a statement before the event that the roundtable would be a valuable opportunity for all sides of the conversation to get together, discuss future opportunities, understand industry barriers and put forward a plan for electric mobility devices.
Key themes are now being investigated by the Department of Transport and Main Roads.
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A commercial e-scooter trial is currently underway in Hervey Bay.
A fleet of around 100 Bird scooters was introduced to parts of Hervey Bay in October for a six-month period.
Should the trial prove successful, the program will be extended in Hervey Bay and a possible expansion into Maryborough is also on the cards.
Mr Bailey said it was important that a balanced and measured approach to e-scooter safety, rules and regulations is adopted.
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“We’ve seen a massive uptake in active transport over the past year, which is great for the environment, good for health and wellbeing and helps to reduce congestion on our roads.
“That’s why it’s more important than ever to make sure we get the balance right when deciding a pathway forward.”
More information on the current road rules for personal mobility devices can be found, here.
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There are scooters left all over the place, often without helmets (where have they gone!). They were introduced in Canberra too, and were also left all over the town. Given COVID why would anyone use them? They’re dangerous (I saw 3 people on one!) and a mess.