Standing up for safer streets: addressing e-bike and e-scooter concerns in Port Phillip

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.

More information about these state government regulations for shared devices can be found on the Department of Transport and Planning website.

Council may also set additional restrictions or performance standards on operators at our discretion, which an operator must conform to under agreement if they want to offer the service. Further information about Council's approach to shared micro-mobility, is available on Council's website.

Council is now advocating for greater regulation and enforcement of privately owned and modified devices, including some high-powered e-bikes and e-moto bikes that may operate outside existing standards or road rules. These are the devices most associated with concerns around excessive speed, unsafe modifications and enforcement challenges.

What we're hearing from our community

Residents across Port Phillip are raising a range of concerns about safety and the impact of these devices on everyday life.

• Footpath safety: Fast-moving e-bikes and e-scooters on footpaths can make pedestrians feel unsafe, particularly older people, families with young children and those using mobility aids.
• Safer infrastructure: In some locations, gaps in cycling infrastructure can leave riders feeling exposed on busy roads, leading some to seek alternative routes that may be unsuitable for both riders and pedestrians.
• Speed and modified devices: Residents have reported increasing numbers of high-powered or modified devices travelling at unsafe speeds and operating more like motorbikes than bicycles or scooters.
• Battery safety: Residents in higher-density areas have expressed concerns about lithium-ion battery fires and unsafe charging practices in apartment buildings.
• Enforcement challenges: Many residents continue to report unsafe riding behaviours and believe there is limited capacity to consistently enforce existing rules.

Supporting responsible micromobility

Many people are using e-bikes and e-scooters responsibly and benefiting from the flexibility they provide.

The challenge is ensuring that unsafe behaviour by a small minority does not undermine community confidence or limit opportunities for the many residents who are doing the right thing.

Whether it is someone riding to work, heading to the beach, connecting to public transport or completing the school run, responsible micromobility users should be able to continue enjoying the benefits of these transport options in a safe and well-regulated environment.

Advocating for stronger regulation and enforcement

While some concerns can be addressed through local management of shared e-bike and e-scooter programs, many of the issues raised by residents require action from State and Federal Governments.

That is why Council is advocating for:

• stronger safety standards for privately owned devices, including compliance at the point of sale
• clearer rules and guidance for battery safety and charging
• improved education and enforcement of road rules
• greater clarity around device classifications and permitted use
• safer infrastructure that supports riders to use roads and dedicated shared paths

A shared goal

Ultimately, everyone wants the same outcome: a city where people can walk, ride, drive and move around safely and confidently.

Council will continue to support responsible micromobility while advocating for stronger regulation, safer infrastructure and better enforcement where needed.

We thank residents for continuing to share their experiences and feedback as we work towards a safer, more accessible and more welcoming Port Phillip for everyone.