With electric bikes continuing to surge in popularity across Australia, it’s important to understand the legal requirements that apply in your state or territory. While there are many similarities in e-bike regulations nationwide, there are also important regional differences, especially around where you can ride, who can ride, and how powerful your e-bike can be.
This guide summarises the key laws around helmet use, wattage limits, pillion passengers, speed restrictions, riding locations, and children’s usage—with links to full breakdowns for each state and territory.
NB: This article is intended as a guide only—always check the official State Government websites for the latest regulations.
Helmet Laws
Common rule: Helmets are mandatory across all states and territories. Riders must wear an approved bicycle helmet that meets AS/NZS 2063 standards, and it must be properly fastened.
Ebike Wattage Limits
Most jurisdictions follow the federal standard:
- 250W (pedal-assist) ebikes (EN15194 certified) are allowed.
- 200W (non-pedal assist) models (typically with throttle only) are permitted in some areas.
However, some states apply these limits more strictly:
| Region | Power Limit | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Queensland | 200W or 250W | Pedalecs must meet EN15194 standard. More info |
| New South Wales | 250W pedal-assist | Must be EN15194 compliant. More info |
| Victoria | 200W or 250W | As above. More info |
| ACT | 250W (pedalecs) | No registration needed under 250W. More info |
| South Australia | 250W pedal-assist | Must comply with EN15194. More info |
| Western Australia | 250W pedal-assist | Throttle allowed to 6 km/h. More info |
| Northern Territory | 200W or 250W | Same federal standard applies. More info |
Pillion Passengers & Age Limits
Most states allow pillion passengers (e.g., children in child seats or trailers) if the ebike is designed for it.
| Region | Pillion Allowed? | Rider Age Minimum for Trailer | Passenger Age Minimum |
|---|---|---|---|
| QLD | Yes (must be designed) | No specific limit | ≥ 12 months in child seat |
| NSW | Yes (if legal setup) | 16 years | <10 yrs in trailer |
| VIC | Yes | 16 years | ≥ 1 year in seat |
| ACT | Yes | None specified | ≥ 12 months |
| SA | Yes | 16 years | ≥ 1 year in seat |
| WA | Yes | 16 years | ≥ 12 months |
| NT | Yes | 16 years | <10 yrs in trailer |
In all states, trailers or child seats must meet safety standards.
Where You Can Ride
| Terrain/Zone | General Rules |
|---|---|
| Roads | Allowed across all states; WA may restrict roads >50km/h. |
| Bike Lanes | Allowed everywhere unless otherwise signed. |
| Shared Paths | Allowed everywhere; give way to pedestrians. |
| Footpaths | Permitted in QLD, NT, WA, and ACT. Banned in NSW and VIC. |
Speed Limits & Assistance Rules
- 25 km/h is the national cut-off speed for power assistance. Above this, the motor must disengage.
- In WA, throttle use is limited to 6 km/h unless combined with pedalling.
- In most states, unregistered ebikes must not exceed this limit or they risk being classified as motorbikes.
Can Children Ride Ebikes?
Most states don’t allow young children to ride electric bikes on public roads or paths:
| Region | Minimum Age to Ride Ebike (unsupervised) |
|---|---|
| QLD | No specific age; child must be competent and safe. |
| NSW | Generally 16+ recommended for pedalecs. |
| VIC | Not recommended for children under 16. |
| ACT | No age restriction, but safety laws apply. |
| SA | No formal age limit, but legal responsibility applies. |
| WA | No age limit, but child must control the bike safely. |
| NT | No formal age, but same rule as WA. |
Supervision and proper fitting safety gear are strongly advised.
State-by-State Full Guides
- Queensland Ebike Laws 2025
- New South Wales Ebike Laws 2025
- Victoria Ebike Laws 2025
- ACT Ebike Laws 2025
- South Australia Ebike Laws 2025
- Western Australia Ebike Laws 2025
- Northern Territory Ebike Laws 2025
Final Thoughts
While ebike laws across Australia share a common framework—particularly around helmet use, wattage, and speed limits—each state has its own unique nuances. Whether you’re planning to commute, cruise, or tow your child in a trailer, be sure to check your local laws to ensure you are riding safely and legally particularly when you are traveling across borders or in new areas.
Have questions or want to explore the best e-bikes for Australian roads? Explore Ebike Expert for in-depth reviews, local guides, and the latest gear updates.