Starting November 1, the NSW government will ban converted e-bikes fitted with electric motors from train services due to safety concerns related to lithium-ion battery fires, especially in underground and tunnel sections.

This ban is part of a broader effort to mitigate fire risks, with Fire and Rescue NSW reporting 77 lithium-ion battery fires this year linked to e-bikes, highlighting the dangers of poorly made or modified batteries.

The new regulations will be implemented through amendments to the Passenger Transport (General) Regulation 2017, avoiding the need for new legislation.

Transport Minister John Graham emphasized a balanced approach, aiming to allow e-bike benefits while addressing safety concerns, with ongoing monitoring and potential further measures.

The ban will not affect e-bike use in station areas such as concourses, lifts, escalators, or bike storage, and will include a police-led enforcement blitz to ensure compliance.

Violations of the ban could result in penalties of up to $1100 or 10 penalty units, with the goal of removing the highest risk e-bikes from trains without overreaching.

The restriction specifically targets converted e-bikes to prevent fire hazards in critical areas of the train network, but does not extend to buses, ferries, or light rail, which are considered lower risk.

The ban exempts regular e-bikes, shared e-bikes, and mobility devices like electric wheelchairs, to avoid discouraging public transport use and to prevent unfair impacts on delivery drivers and couriers.

Transport ministers from NSW and Victoria have called on the federal government to strengthen standards for imported e-devices to improve safety and reduce fire risks.

Authorities stress the importance of purchasing quality e-bikes that meet safety standards and avoiding DIY modifications, which significantly increase fire risks.

The government’s decision follows recent fires at train stations in Blacktown, Liverpool, and Melbourne, caused by lithium-ion batteries, with Fire and Rescue NSW reporting 77 related incidents this year.