What's the Latest on the E-Scooter Trials in NSW

It's been months since the second trial was held at the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan where e-scooters were available for use from August 1 to Octobe 31, 2022.

It will be recalled that when trials on electric scooter shared schemes begun in NSW from July 2022 and ends in June 2023 by Transport for NSW, riders at trial locations were allowed to hire and ride electric scooters (e-scooters) on designated roads and paths. The said trial aims to test the safety, viability and benefits of e-scooters as a convenient, fun and environment-friendly option for short journeys.

The first trial location was the Western Sydney Parklands, where e-scooters were available for use from July 31, 2022 to October 31, 2022.

The trial rules and tips for e-scooter riders include: wearing an approved bicycle helmet at all times; using the e-scooter lights when riding in darkness or hazardous weather conditions; not exceeding 10 km/h on shared paths and 20 km/h on bicycle paths/lanes and roads; not riding on footpaths; being at least 16 years old; and not riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

NSW councils can request to participate in the trial by making a detailed submission that covers the proposed trial location, the nominated e-scooter shared scheme provider, the community engagement plan, and the safety management plan. Deadline given for submissions was until 30 September 2022.

This year, the third trial location is at Lake Macquarie, where e-scooters are available for use starting December 5, 2022. In the said location, e-scooters are permitted on four tracks only: the Fernleigh Track, the Croudace Bay foreshore, the Warners Bay foreshore and up to Glendale, and the Toronto foreshore to Fassifern train station.

Several councils, including the City of Sydney have already ruled out after taking part in the trial, citing safety concerns for pedestrians and fears the devices would be discarded. The NSW government has said it will review its plan and consult with councils before expanding the trial to other areas.

Currently, e-scooters are illegal and cannot be used on public roads, footpaths and shared paths in NSW, except for private property. Only foot scooters -- without motors are allowed on footpaths and designated bike lanes with certain conditions.

On the same note, electric scooters can be purchased from various online or physical stores in Sydney, such as like Ride Hub, but they are only allowed to be used legally on private property or at designated trial locations .

The trial will be evaluated and monitored by Transport for New South Wales (NSW).

For more information, visit: www.mearth.com.au