USA
Navigating the New E-Bike Landscape: A Guide to Australian Laws & Staying Legal
The e-bike revolution is transforming how Australians commute and explore, but with new technology comes a rapidly shifting legal landscape. As we head into 2026, state and federal governments are tightening regulations on motor power, battery safety, and import standards to ensure our paths remain safe for everyone.
Whether you are looking to buy your first electric bike or upgrading your current ride, staying informed is the only way to avoid heavy fines or vehicle impoundment. At BikesOnline AU, we believe in riding with confidence, which is why we’ve put together this definitive guide to help you navigate the rules, avoid grey market traps, and find a 100% legal ride that fits your lifestyle.
Are eBikes Legal in Australia?
Yes, eBikes are legal in Australia, provided they meet specific national and state-based requirements. To be classified as a legal eBike (and not a motor vehicle), the motor must have a maximum continuous rated power of 250 watts, provide pedal-assist only, and cut out at 25 km/h.
Some eBikes may include a throttle, but in most states this is limited to low-speed start assistance (typically up to 6 km/h). If an eBike exceeds these limits — such as offering throttle-only riding at higher speeds or increased motor power — it may be considered an unregistered motor vehicle, making it illegal to ride on public roads and shared paths.
Because enforcement and penalties vary between states and territories, riders should always ensure their eBike complies with both Australian standards and local road rules before riding.
The State of Play: Rules by Region
While Australia is moving toward a unified standard, there are still critical differences between states. Here is how the rules stand for 2025/2026:
NSW (The Big Change)
Historically, NSW allowed motors up to 500W for certain categories. However, the NSW Government has officially moved to reduce the legal limit to 250W by early 2026. Furthermore, from February 1, 2026, all e-bikes and batteries sold in NSW must be independently certified to stop the sale of dangerous, non-compliant devices.
Queensland
To be legal in QLD, your bike must be "pedal-assist" with a maximum power of 250W (complying with EN 15194). Throttles are only permitted to assist up to 6km/h (Start-Assist).
Victoria
VIC follows the 250W limit for Pedelecs (EPACs). Any bike exceeding this or lacking functional pedals is classified as a motor vehicle. Police have recently increased enforcement.
ACT
Same Rights as Bikes. E-bikes meeting Australian definitions (250W Pedelec or 200W Throttle) do not require registration, a licence, or compulsory insurance. Shared paths follow standard bicycle rules.
Tasmania
Explicit Definitions. Recognises 200W throttle models and 250W EPACs (Pedelecs). Motor assist must taper off above 6km/h and cut out at 25km/h. High focus on thermal safety.
Western Australia
You must be at least 16 years old to operate an e-bike in WA. Like other states, the limit is 250W for compliant pedal-assist bikes.
South Australia
As of July 13, 2025, new rules allow Personal Mobility Devices on roads, but e-bikes must still adhere to the 250W/25km/h cut-off to be treated as bicycles.
Northern Territory
Treats compliant e-bikes as bicycles. Non-compliant high-powered models (anything over 250W/200W) are classified as motor vehicles and require registration and licensing.
Don't Get Caught Out: Penalties & Fines
The cost of riding a non-compliant "grey import" or a modified bike is steep. Authorities are no longer issuing just warnings.
| State | Non-Compliant Device Fine | Other Common Fines |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | $818+ (Illegal e-bike use) | $410 (No helmet), $410 (Mobile phone) |
| QLD | Up to $1,640 (Unregistered) | $1,251 (Dangerous offences) |
| VIC | Significant Court Fines | Up to 25 penalty units (~$3,000) |
| ACT / TAS / NT | $150 - $600+ | Unregistered motor vehicle charges |
Confiscation Warning
In states like QLD and NSW, repeated offences (2+ within 5 years) can result in your bike being permanently confiscated and destroyed by police.
The Danger of "Grey Imports"
A "grey import" is a bike brought into Australia through unofficial channels, often designed for overseas markets where power limits are much higher (often 750W+).
Illegal on Public Roads
If a bike is over 250W or goes faster than 25km/h without pedalling, it is legally a motorbike. You cannot ride it on bike paths or roads without registration.
Immediate Impoundment
Under current enforcement rules, police can impound or confiscate non-compliant devices on the spot for inspection.
Fire Hazards
Many grey imports use uncertified batteries. By 2026, the Federal Government is enforcing stricter battery standards to prevent storage fires.
No Insurance
If you have an accident on an illegal bike, your public liability and personal injury insurance is almost certainly voided instantly.
Path Etiquette: Where Can You Ride?
Knowing the law also means knowing where you are allowed to be.
Shared Paths
Legal in all states. You must keep left, use your bell when passing, and give way to pedestrians.
Footpaths
In NSW and VIC, adults generally cannot ride on footpaths. In QLD and WA, it is legal but pedestrians have right-of-way.
Speed Limits
Regardless of motor assistance, you must obey posted speed limits (often 10-20km/h in busy council zones).
The Importance of a Reputable Supplier
Buying from a trusted Australian retailer ensures your ride is built for our specific laws and safety requirements. When you buy from BikesOnline AU (including compliant ranges such as Aventon ebikes) you get:
AU-Specific Tuning
Our bikes are factory-configured to meet the 250W continuous power rating and 25km/h speed cut-off.
Safety Certified
We prioritize systems that meet high international safety standards, including EN 15194 and UL 2849.
Legal Out-of-the-Box
Avoid "unlocked" traps. A compliant bike is legal to ride on public paths the moment it’s assembled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a throttle on my e-bike in Australia? ▼
What happens if I "chip" or modify my bike to go faster? ▼
Do I need a license to ride a legal e-bike? ▼
Glossary of Terms
Pedelec / EPAC:
Short for Electrically Power-Assisted Cycle. This is the legal definition of an e-bike where the motor only engages while pedalling and cuts out at 25km/h.
Continuous Rated Power:
The power a motor sustains indefinitely. This is the official number (e.g., 250W) used by Australian law to determine if a bike is legal.
Chipping / Chipped:
Refers to modifying the e-bike with a tuning chip to remove or raise the factory-set speed limit of the motor assistance.
EN 15194:
The gold-standard European safety certification. It ensures the entire bike is safe for road use and is the required standard in Australia.
