The NSW Liberals and Nationals have announced a commitment to introducing a nation-leading, low-cost licence plate scheme for certain categories of e-bike riders, putting community safety, responsible riding and practical enforcement at the centre of future active-transport regulation.
This Australian-first initiative will enable clearer and more consistent safety expectations, support better rider accountability, and give local councils, police and the community practical tools to promote safe behaviour.
The commitment follows extensive consultation with stakeholders, including police, local councils, community groups and safety experts, alongside last year’s NSW Parliamentary inquiry into e-bike safety.
The NSW Liberals and Nationals have prioritised two central considerations for e-bike reform:
1. Improving the safety and quality of e-bikes; and
2. Supporting responsible rider behaviour.
Under the proposed scheme, a government-issued identification plate would be required for:
· Riders under the age of 18;
· Riders who use e-bikes for a commercial purpose; and
· Commercial shared service schemes.
Riders aged 18 and over using a privately-owned e-bike would be exempt from the requirement.
This election commitment also includes expanded safety education for young riders, ensuring they understand the risks associated with e-bike technology and how to use these devices responsibly in the community. New penalties for non-compliance will support consistent standards and rider accountability.
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer welcomed the commitment and said the proposed scheme will make it easier for communities to embrace the benefits of e-bikes safely.
“E-bikes are a convenient way to get around, especially for young people, and are growing in popularity here in the Port Macquarie electorate. However, it is important that we find ways to ensure the safety of our children and wider community”, Mr Dwyer said.
“I’m pleased to be part of a NSW Liberals and Nationals team that has developed a nation-leading scheme to enable low-cost registrations that will assist with identifying problematic riders, promote responsible riding and improve confidence for pedestrians and riders.”
The NSW Liberals and Nationals will implement this licence-plate scheme once elected to Government after the March 2027 State Election.
