Queensland Police have begun targeting neighbourhood hoons on illegal high-powered e-bikes and e-scooters as stronger laws come into effect.
The new laws from July 1, 2026 include:
- Police powers to seize and destroy illegal devices.
- Police powers to conduct random breath tests for riders in public places, with drink riders fined $518-$6,908 (maximum court-imposed).
- E-bikes and scooters which can exceed 25km/h unassisted are banned and 12km speed limits to apply near pedestrians.
- $345-$1,986 penalty for speeding
- $518 for failing to wear a helmet, careless riding, illegally carrying passengers or for riding Personal Mobility Devices on prohibited roads.
- Parents can be fined $518 for children under 16 riding illegally.
Riders must be 16 with a licence from August 31. Some exemptions for medical conditions and disabilities, and the ability for 12-17 year-olds to ride under parental supervision apply.
Compliance labelling for e-bikes will be mandatory by February 28, 2027.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said Queenslanders had made it clear they wanted action on dangerous e-mobility behaviour.
“For too long, illegal high-powered devices and reckless riders have been allowed to terrorise Queensland communities,” Mr Purdie said.
“The free ride is over – if you’re riding an illegal device, putting pedestrians at risk or treating public spaces like your own racetrack, expect to be caught.”
To coincide with the new laws, Queensland Police are launching Operation Surety to target dangerous riders, illegal high-powered devices, speeding, drink riding, and helmet offences.
The first phase of Operation Surety, launched in November 2025, resulted in 2,628 infringements being issued, including 1,824 for not wearing a helmet, 358 for riding on a prohibited road and 69 for speeding.
