NSW Shadow Transport Minister, Natalie Ward has criticised the Minns Government over its backflip on e-bike identification measures, warning that after months of announcements and consultation, communities are still seeing little action on public safety.
Earlier this year, Transport Minister John Graham dismissed the idea of number plates for e-bikes, claiming on 2GB that they “won’t help with enforcement.”
However, the Government’s newly released draft regulations now propose mandatory identification numbers for shared e-bikes.
“Call it a number plate or call it a fleet identification number, it’s the same concept the Minister previously said would not work. Now the Government is implementing it,” Ms Ward said.
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer said the Government’s reversal was an acknowledgement that stronger oversight is needed, but argued the proposal does not go far enough.
“While this is a step in the right direction, the regulations should also apply to privately owned e-bikes, which are increasingly involved in dangerous behaviour in our communities,” Mr Dwyer said.
Ms Ward said the Government’s approach fails to address the growing concerns residents have about unsafe riding behaviour on footpaths, in parks and across busy public spaces.
“The individuals causing the greatest concern are often riding privately owned e-bikes, yet Labor has done nothing to address reckless behaviour or strengthen enforcement powers,” she said.
She also criticised the delay in implementing laws regulating shared e-bikes, noting that legislation passed Parliament six months ago but has still not taken effect.
“Six months later, there are still no regulations in force. While the Government continues consulting and delaying, Sydneysiders are left dealing with obstructed footpaths and ongoing safety concerns,” Ms Ward said.
The Liberals and Nationals are continuing to call on the Government to support amendments that would give police the power to immediately seize dangerous private e-bikes based on rider behaviour, rather than technical specifications alone.
“Communities want accountability and action. NSW deserves a government that responds to this issue with urgency, instead of constantly playing catch-up,” Ms Ward said.
