For the second time, the NSW Government has extended Wollongong’s e-scooter trial program. It’s prompted calls from one Wollongong councillor for increased safety measures to protect riders, cyclists and pedestrians who use the shared paths.
The e-scooter trial started in September 2023 for a 12-month period. In October 2024, the trial was extended until 30 June 2025. With that deadline now past, the government has announced a further six-month extension to January 2026.
After a detailed selection process, Neuron was chosen as the provider for the trial and after the first year of the trial it clocked up more than 165,000 trips covering nearly 317,000km.
On hearing the news of the trial’s extension, at the weekend independent Wollongong City Councillor Andrew Anthony called for “proactive steps to improve safety around the use of high-powered electric bikes (e-bikes) and electric scooters (e-scooters) with a strong focus on education, awareness and community engagement”.
With growing reports of risky riding behaviour, particularly among younger riders, Cr Anthony says now is the time to come together as a community to ensure everyone can enjoy the benefits of these emerging transport options safely and responsibly.
"I want to be clear, this isn't about stopping kids from having fun,” Cr Anthony said.
“Cycling is a fantastic way for young people to stay active and travel independently before they're old enough to drive a car.
"I'm a keen cyclist myself and I love seeing young people out riding. But we also have a duty of care to make sure they're safe and that those around them are safe too."
Cr Anthony noted increasing concerns from residents about the unsafe use of some e-bikes and e-scooters especially when ridden on footpaths, at high speeds, without helmets or with multiple passengers.
Cr Anthony emphasised the importance of informed decision-making when buying an e-bike.
"Not all e-bikes and e-scooters are legal to ride on public roads or footpaths. Some e-bike models available today are more like small motorbikes. They're powerful, fast, and often being used in ways that put both riders and pedestrians at risk. We need better guidance for people when making purchases. And wearing a helmet is an absolute must for safety and avoiding a fine."
To help address this, Cr Anthony suggests holding community workshops and incorporating more road safety education at a younger age in schools targeting kids who don't yet have a driver licence.
"A basic understanding of the road rules would make a big difference," he said.
He also acknowledged that the rules around these technologies are still catching up.
“We need consistent, modern regulations that reflect how these devices are being used in the real world. That means working with state government, police, and the wider community."
With the state government announcing an extension of the e-scooter trial in Wollongong until January 2026, Cr Anthony says it's an ideal time for Council to consider how local safety can be improved.
"I hope a report can be brought to Council exploring practical ways to enhance safety around e-scooter use," he said. "The trial gives us a chance to learn what's working and what needs to change before these technologies become even more widespread."
Cr Anthony is encouraging residents to share their experiences and get involved.
"This is a growing public safety issue. I'm keen to work with the community, law enforcement, community groups and the media to promote safer riding and avoid preventable injuries. Let's make sure fun doesn't come at the cost of safety."
