Member for Kiama Gareth Ward has launched a new community survey seeking feedback from residents on the regulation of e-scooters and e-bikes.

The survey will run for one month and Mr Ward will be sharing the results with the NSW Government once it closes.

“A number of local residents have raised their safety concerns with me, and I am encouraging people to have their say,” Mr Ward says.

“Our local residents deserve to feel safe, and the reality is that sometimes when e-scooters and e-bikes are not used appropriately, they pose a safety risk particularly for our elderly locals, mothers with prams, and people with disabilities.” 

The survey comes after discussions about the regulation of e-scooters, which began in March 2020. At that time, recommendations were developed by the Transport for NSW Electric Scooter Advisory (ESA) Working Group in the absence of Australian Design Rules for electric scooters. However, it was noted that further investigation was needed into evidence-based vehicle specification standards in areas such as visibility, speed accuracy, braking, and manoeuverability.

“In June 2024, the NSW Parliament announced the establishment of an Upper House inquiry into the use of e-scooters, e-bikes and other mobility devices,” says Mr Ward. 

Mr Ward says he looks forward to reviewing the final report from the inquiry, which will include important policy suggestions, and hopes this survey will help inform his stance on any proposed law reform.

“The reality is that our streets, shopping centres, transport hubs, train stations, and public spaces must be safe and inclusive places for everybody, including those using e-scooters and e-bikes,” Mr Ward says. 

“We must also examine the extent that e-mobility devices have positive community benefits such as encouraging mode shift, relieving congestion, addressing social disadvantage and tourism.”

Mr Ward says the challenge for the State Government is to take clear action to balance these needs while keeping people safe.

Find the survey here.