Under section 18A of the Regulation, a personal mobility device means a device:

1. propelled by an electric motor; and
2. designed for use by only 1 person; and
3. weighing not more than 60kg unladen; and
4. with 1 or more wheels; and
5. with a brake system; and
6. that cannot travel faster than 25km/h on level ground; and
7. with dimensions not more than –
   1. 1250mm in length; and
   2. 700mm in width; and
   3. 1350mm in height.

Examples of personal mobility devices include:

• segway-like devices;
• electric scooters (e-scooters); and
• electrically propelled skateboards (e-skateboards).

This list is not exhaustive and other devices may be captured by the above definition in the future as new technology emerges.

A personal mobility device does not include:

• motorised wheelchairs or mobility scooters commonly used by individuals with a disability;
• electric bicycles; and
• scooters, skateboards, rollerblades and/or other wheeled recreational devices or wheeled toys that are not propelled by electric motors.

Personal mobility devices are permitted on footpaths, shared paths, bicycle paths and the bicycle side of separated paths.

They are not permitted on roads or separated footpaths, except under very specific circumstances. A person on a personal mobility device may only use the road if there is no footpath, shared path or nature strip next to the road or it is impracticable to travel on one of those areas. If a person on a personal mobility device is required to use the road, they must cross the road by the shortest, safest route and not stay on the road for longer than necessary.

Personal mobility devices can also be used on private property where the road transport law does not apply.

A person travelling in or on a personal mobility device commits an offence if they travel faster than:

1. on a footpath – 15km/hr; or
2. in any other case (shared paths, bicycle side of separated paths and bicycle paths) – 25km/hr (it should be noted that a personal mobility device that travels more than 25km/hr is considered a motor vehicle and is therefore forbidden from travelling on paths).

You must also slow down to 10km/h when approaching and travelling across a crossing.

These speed limits are a maximum, and people need to use their judgement and travel at the appropriate and safe speed for the environment they are travelling in and be respectful to pedestrians and others. Sharing the road is everyone’s responsibility and the speed limits provide a balance between safety and the devices being a viable transport option.

There are also a number of other important rules that must be followed when using personal mobility devices:

• Wear a helmet – You must wear an approved safety helmet while riding an e-scooter.
• Don't drive under the influence – Riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol is dangerous and illegal. Catch public transport, call a lift or walk home.
• Mobile phones – You are not allowed to use a mobile device while operating the device.
• Warning devices – You must have a warning device such as a bell fitted to your device or otherwise accessible to you.
• Safety equipment – You must have lights and reflectors on either the device or your person at night or in hazardous weather conditions.
• One person per personal mobility device – You must not carry any passengers.
• Giving way – You must give way to other pedestrians and keep to the left. It is the responsibility of all users to share the footpath and road and be mindful of other users.
• Supervise children – Children under the age of 12 must not use a personal mobility device without adult supervision.

Light rail

Certain types of e-scooters are permitted on the light rail system. Information about which types of e-scooters are permitted and travel requirements can be found on the CMET website.

Buses

A bus driver may need to refuse your request to bring a device on-board if they deem that it is not safe for you or other passengers due to its size, and number of passengers on board.

If taken on board, e-scooters must:

• not block the aisle or exits
• not obscure the vision of the driver
• be easily carried on or off the bus by the passenger
• be stored safely and securely within the passenger area.

The Transport Canberra Carriage of Goods Policy allows e-scooters and similar devices to be brought onto buses at the drivers’ discretion.

To contact Neuron Mobility (orange e-scooters) call 61 02 8806 0404 or email canberrasupport@neuron.sg

To contact Beam Mobility (purple e-scooters) call 5104 3353 or email canberra@ridebeam.com