In March, the Victorian Government extended its e-scooter trial for six months and made the decision to legalise private e-scooters. Yarra City Council is one of four Victorian councils participating in the e-scooter share trial which includes the City of Melbourne, City of Port Phillip and City of Ballarat.
Since the trial began 14 months ago, e-scooters have provided the Yarra community with a brand-new, accessible, eco-friendly, and cost-effective way to travel around the municipality.
The initial trial highlighted some areas for improvement including the need for greater awareness of the road rules, improved education around where e-scooters can be parked, and the need to maintain footpath access for pedestrians.
The initial trial highlighted some areas for improvement including the need for greater awareness of the road rules, improved education around where e-scooters can be parked, and the need to maintain footpath access for pedestrians.
As part of the decision to extend the trial, new road rules have been introduced and improvements have been made to the process for reporting any issues.
- E-scooters cannot travel above 20 kilometres per hour.
- Riders must wear a helmet.
- Riders must be at least 16 years of age.
- E-scooters are not permitted on footpaths (except shared paths).
- Riders need to consider others when parking their e-scooter.
- Riders must adhere to the same blood alcohol content (BAC) and drug use restrictions as drivers.
- Riders cannot consume alcohol while travelling on an e-scooter.
- Riders must also not carry passengers, ride two abreast, use a mobile phone or lead an animal on their e-scooter.
- Victoria Police will be enforcing the safe use of e-scooters.
- Devices capable of exceeding 25 kilometres per hour are not classified as e-scooters and are illegal.
E-scooter companies, Lime and Neuron, are responsible for all aspects of their operations. Any specific issues should be reported to them directly, 24 hours a day.
