Almost 400 devices seized since rollout  

QUEENSLAND’S e-mobility crackdown is entering its next phase, with riders now required to hold at least a learner licence as police continue targeting unsafe behaviour on e-bikes and e-scooters.

The new licensing requirement came into effect on August 31, two months after Queensland Police Service (QPS) launched Operation Yankee Surety, a statewide road safety operation targeting riders who break the rules.

Since the operation began on July 1, police have issued more than 1700 infringement notices to e-mobility riders across Queensland, and almost 400 non-compliant devices have been seized, while more than 1000 riders have been fined for not wearing helmets.

Police have also issued 142 speeding fines and intercepted 54 riders who were found to be affected by alcohol.

The figures come as the next stage of the operation gets underway, with police now checking whether riders hold the required licence when they are intercepted.

Under the new rules, riders must hold a minimum of a valid learner licence to operate an electric power assisted cycle (EPAC) or personal mobility device such as an e-scooter.

There are some exemptions, including for 12 to 17-year-olds riding under the supervision of a caregiver, people riding in recreational areas such as bike trails and medically exempt riders.

The licensing requirement adds to existing age restrictions applying to younger e-mobility riders.

Disaster and Emergency Management Acting Deputy Commissioner Rhys Wildman said police would check compliance with the new requirements as part of their ongoing enforcement work.

“Queensland police are reminding all e-mobility riders and their caregivers to familiarise themselves with the new requirements and understand their responsibilities as road users.”

Acting Deputy Commissioner Wildman said the first two months of Operation Yankee Surety had highlighted the need for both education and enforcement.

“Police statewide have issued more than 1,700 fines to riders engaging in risky behaviour, and officers continue to detect riders speeding, failing to wear helmets, using non-compliant devices, and in some cases riding while affected by alcohol,” Acting Deputy Commissioner Wildman said.

Police will continue to focus on education and engagement, particularly with young riders and their caregivers, but those ignoring the rules can expect enforcement action.

“Our officers will continue to enforce the road rules and take action against riders doing the wrong thing. Education remains a key part of our approach, and we will continue to work with caregivers, children and the community to ensure they understand their responsibilities.

“But where riders choose to disregard the law, enforcement action will follow.”

Operation Yankee Surety will continue until June 30, 2027, with police maintaining a statewide focus on e-mobility safety.

For more information, please visit: https://streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au/e-bikes-e-scooters/.