- The Miles Labor Government is committed to reducing emissions in the transport sector and encouraging more people to utilise sustainable and active transport options when travelling.
- The state launched a new E-Mobility Rebate Scheme this week to help ensure Queenslanders purchase e-bicycles and e-scooters that meet Queensland safety standards.
- The schemes popularity has already surpassed expectations and the Queensland Government has invested an additional $1million to the scheme.
The Queensland Government has doubled the available funding for the newly launched E-Mobility Rebate Scheme due to a resounding uptake, with a further $1 million investment.
Over 860 applications were submitted in the first three days of Scheme – which began on Monday 23 September 2024 - showing the community is backing the Government's commitment to encouraging the use of e-bicycles and e-scooters. The new rebates for the purchase of e-bicycles and e-scooters were introduced to encourage Queenslanders to chose more active and sustainable modes of transport, while helping reduce cost of living pressures.
Rebate funding of up to $500 per eligible e-bicycle and $200 per eligible e-scooter is available to successful scheme applicants.
The safe and proper use of these devices provides an affordable and more sustainable mode of transport, while encouraging people to be active in their everyday lives.
The new rebate scheme supports the Miles Labor Government's priority of further reducing emissions and working to meet interim targets on the path to net zero by 2050.
It will also put money back in the pockets of Queenslanders – building on nation leading cost of living relief delivered under Premier Steven Miles.
Applicants for the scheme have already indicated that the main reasons for purchasing an e-mobility device is to replace car trips, increase fitness, being cost-effective and being good for the environment.
The rebate applies to:
- E-scooters that are propelled by an electric motor that is not capable of operating when the device is going faster than 25km/h
- Power assisted bicycles fitted with one or more electric auxiliary motor/s with a maximum power output, or combined maximum power output of not more than 200 watts
- Electrically power-assisted cycles (EPAC) with a maximum continuous rated power of 250 watt.
Already, 50 cent fares have proven to be a winner with record amounts of people jumping on board. For those that don't catch public transport, the Miles Labor Government has taken 20 per cent off rego for all light vehicles, regardless of use.
If elected in October, Premier Steven Miles has also committed to bringing down petrol prices by encouraging more independents in the market, limiting the cost and frequency of price rises and open state-owned petrol stations.
Queensland's Zero Emission Vehicle Strategy 2022-2032 is driving the state's commitment to reducing emissions and providing positive outcomes for the environment.
The scheme includes detailed guidelines and connects applicants to important information about safe e-device riding and charging practices, to help ensure the safety of riders, pedestrians, and other transport network users.
Over the past few years, the Government has significantly reformed e-scooter rules across the state.
These rules are now nation-leading and – when combined with significant penalties and police enforcement – send a clear message to riders that unsafe and antisocial behaviors will not be tolerated.
Since major road rule changes were made in November 2022, the Queensland Police Service has issued more than 6,000 infringements to riders doing the wrong thing.
While there are no immediate plans for further personal mobility device rule changes, the Department of Transport and Main Roads is currently conducting an evaluation to understand the success of past reforms, and whether future changes may be required.
All information on eligible devices and how to apply can be found at https://www.qld.gov.au/transport/projects/electricvehicles/zero-emission-strategy
As stated by the Transport Minister Bart Mellish:
"Encouraging more Queenslanders to take advantage of new forms of transport gets cars off our road, and more people enjoying our great active transport routes.
"Now, our government is offering a Queensland first rebate to encourage the uptake of e-bike or e-scooter.
"E-scooters and e-bikes are becoming a popular alternative form of transport to support the first-last mile journey to public transport or travelling short distances.
"By riding to the train or bus and taking advantage of our 50 cent fares, you're not only saving money, but also reducing greenhouse gas emissions from traditional vehicle travel. They also help to reduce congestion and emissions and provide a convenient mode of transport for Queensland's hot and often hilly conditions.
"We know more Queenslanders want to take up riding to be more active and travel sustainably. But sometimes, distance, heat, hills and physical fitness can be a barrier. E-bikes are the ideal solution, making it comfortable for Queenslanders of all abilities to ride for longer, more often - and now, more affordably too.
"To find out how the rebate could help you pay less to pedal further, visit the TMR website".
