The Victorian government will introduce new e-scooter regulations in October when the hire transport operations become permanent following a two-year trial.

It will increase fines for e-scooter offences including riding on footpaths, not wearing a helmet, riding as a passenger, drinking alcohol while riding and underage riding. The rules will now allow e-scooters to have seats.  

The state Department of Transport and Planning says it will also work with local councils and operators to introduce additional safeguards, including footpath detection, onto e-scooters.  

The government says it will introduce legislation next year that sets minimum standards for e-scooter hire operators.  

As part of that process the transport department will trial new safeguards such as cognitive reaction tests to reduce alcohol and drug-influenced riding, disabling operations if the attached helmet is not worn, and verification of riders wearing helmets.  

The department will also launch a safety campaign with the Transport Accident Commission when the changes are introduced in October.  

“E-scooters are here to stay – they’ve proven popular among commuters, especially shift workers, providing an additional option to travel home safely,” Victorian Public and Active Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams said. 

“We know there have been safety concerns, and that’s why we have thoroughly assessed their use and are introducing some of the toughest new laws in the country to make e-scooters safer.”