NSW is moving to ensure lithium-ion battery products are appropriately tested and meet new safety standards before they enter the market, amid a rising number of fires.  

Under the government crackdown, fines for failing to meet prescribed standards will be up to $825,000 for corporations and $82,500 for individuals. 

Among the products identified are e-bikes, e-scooters, “hoverboards” and e-skateboards, which have been the main causes of a sharp rise in lithium-ion battery fires.  

State Better Regulation and Fair Trading Minister Anoulack Chanthivong says the changes aim to address the “alarming” uptick in incidents.  

“The reality is devices like e-bikes are here to stay,” he said. “Imposing higher standards means that consumers will have access to the products they want with the confidence that they’re safe. 

“As the popularity of lithium-ion batteries grows, we can’t afford to let them continue to go unregulated in our community. 

“Failing to act poses a huge risk to lives and property in NSW.”  

NSW Fair Trading held meetings last month with industry bodies, advocacy groups, peak bodies and other stakeholders to discuss further efforts. The regulator intends to introduce a consumer education campaign to highlight how to use lithium-ion battery products safely and avoid fire risks.  

“The ongoing cost to property and potential loss of life from lithium-ion battery fires outweighs any compliance cost imposed on industry by these new standards,” NSW Fair Trading acting commissioner Petrina Casey said.  

“We are moving to impose new standards and certification requirements for e-bikes, e-scooters, hoverboards and other lithium-ion-powered micromobility devices. 

“In order to maintain consumer safety across Australia, NSW Fair Trading will work with other jurisdictions to encourage certification requirements nationally.”