Under the proposed regulations, e-scooters will have a speed limit of 10-20 km/h on shared paths and a maximum of 20 km/h on roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or lower.

The New South Wales (NSW) government is moving to legalize e-scooters for riders aged 16 and older, permitting their use on shared paths and bike lanes while banning them from footpaths.

Concerns have also been raised regarding device modifications and fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, which have prompted the government's regulatory actions.

NSW has approximately 1.35 million e-micromobility devices, with nearly half being used to connect with public transport, indicating a significant adoption of these transport options.

These proposals stem from recommendations made by a recent Parliamentary Inquiry that focused on the safety and regulation of e-scooters and e-bikes.

The inquiry was prompted by a serious incident in Victoria, where a pedestrian suffered life-threatening injuries after being struck by an illegally modified e-bike.

While advocates argue that e-scooters can reduce car trips and improve access to public transport, doctors have raised concerns about the safety of children riding them, citing a rise in emergency room visits due to related injuries.

Transport Minister John Graham has stressed the importance of balancing the benefits of e-mobility devices with community safety concerns.

The final legislation will be developed after consultations with police and Transport for NSW, and there are currently no plans for a registration system for e-scooters.

The inquiry recommended urgent reforms, including speed limit reductions to 30 km/h for all e-mobility devices, highlighting the need for improved infrastructure to support their safe use.

Shared e-scooter trials have been conducted in various areas, including Kogarah and Wollongong, demonstrating their potential to reduce car trips and enhance public transport access.

Residents have expressed frustration over e-bikes being left on footpaths, obstructing access for those with mobility impairments, and criticized riders for not adhering to road rules.