E-BIKE rider hospitalisations in NSW have increased from 125 in 2009-10 to 604 in 2024-25, according to Port Macquarie MP, Robert Dwyer.
The largest increases have occurred among young people and young males, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare data has revealed.
Dwyer said Port Macquarie, Hastings and Camden Haven residents continued to raise concerns about dangerous e-bike behaviour on roads, shared pathways and in public spaces – particularly involving young riders travelling at high speeds.
He welcomed renewed calls for an Australian-first e-bike licence plate scheme.
“Introducing a licence system will give police an opportunity to identify riders acting illegally,” Mr Dwyer said.
“Across the Port Macquarie electorate, I’ve heard from residents who are concerned about unsafe riding, near misses and a lack of accountability when riders do the wrong thing.”
The figures reinforced the need for practical measures that improve rider behaviour and supported enforcement efforts, Mr Dwyer said, and the sharp increase in e-bike-related injuries should be a wake-up call for the NSW Government.
“This is not about stopping people from using e-bikes,” the MP said.
“E-bikes are a valuable transport option and can play an important role in helping people get around their communities.
“But we also have a responsibility to ensure they are being used safely and responsibly, particularly by younger riders.”
Under the Liberals-Nationals proposal, licence plates would be required for riders under 18 years of age, commercial delivery riders and shared e-bike operators, while privately-owned e-bikes used by adults would be exempt.
Mr Dwyer said the proposal struck an appropriate balance between encouraging active transport and improving safety outcomes.
“Accountability is an important part of changing behaviour,” he added.
“If we can improve accountability, we can help reduce injuries and make our roads and shared pathways safer for everyone.”
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