What’s Happening?
Queensland has introduced a new assurance scheme for existing legal e-bikes, giving owners until 28 February 2027 to complete verification and labelling requirements for continued legal public use.
The Electrically Power-Assisted Cycle (EPAC) Assurance Scheme began rolling out on 2 November 2026. It provides a pathway for eligible electric bicycles to demonstrate compliance with key safety requirements.
The initiative forms part of the Queensland Government’s broader e-mobility reforms, which seek to distinguish legitimate electric bicycles from dangerous devices.
Why It Matters
The new arrangements provide a compliance pathway for people who have already invested in legitimate e-bikes. However, not every electric-powered device will qualify for the scheme.
Department of Transport and Main Roads Land Transport Safety & Regulation General Manager Joanna Robinson said the reforms draw a distinction between responsible riders and unsafe devices.
“Dangerous, high-powered and high-speed devices will not be eligible.”
Robinson also said the scheme would provide certainty for Queenslanders who use legitimate electric bicycles as a means of transport.
Local Impact
The Department of Transport and Main Roads is working with Bicycle Industries Australia to develop a network of inspection locations across Queensland.
The scheme will roll out in phases through trained bicycle retailers. The Department has also confirmed that other options will be available for rural and remote riders who cannot access an authorised retailer.
Key Points
- $70 fee cap: Inspection and labelling charges are capped at $70 under the scheme.
- Adapted mobility devices: Eligible e-bikes and e-trikes designed or modified for people with disabilities or medical conditions can also seek compliance.
- Industry involvement: Bicycle Industries Australia is supporting the program and helping expand the inspection network.
Zoom In
Eligible e-bikes will undergo inspections by trained bicycle retailers against key safety requirements. Devices that pass will receive permanent compliance labels, allowing their owners to continue using them legally in public.
Robinson described the process as a practical way for existing owners to meet the requirements.
“The EPAC Assurance Scheme is a practical pathway for riders to have their existing e-bike inspected, labelled and to continue riding it legally,” Ms Robinson said.
Bicycle Industries Australia General Manager Peter Bourke said the industry supported measures that help riders access appropriate devices.
“Safe and compliant e-bikes are a fantastic transport solution, and Bicycle Industries Australia strongly supports measures that help riders access products that are safe, legal and fit for purpose,” Mr Bourke said.
Zoom Out
The Queensland Government is also incorporating e-mobility safety information into learner driver education.
During November 2026, updates to PrepL and PrepL Supervisor modules will introduce information about safe riding behaviours, legal e-mobility devices and sharing roads and paths with other users.
PrepL is the online course used to obtain a learner licence. The changes will add e-mobility information to existing learner driver education rather than introducing a separate course.
Bourke said the assurance scheme would also help bicycle businesses assist existing owners.
“Bicycle Industries Australia is pleased to support the program, which will help e-bike owners understand whether their bike meets the Queensland requirements and gives bicycle businesses an opportunity to provide practical assistance.”
What To Look For Next?
The Department of Transport and Main Roads will continue working with Bicycle Industries Australia to grow the inspection network as the phased rollout progresses.
Updated learner driver education modules are scheduled for introduction during November 2026.
