Wollongong's e-scooter hire trial has been so successful, the company that owns those bright orange scooters hopes to expand its current riding area across more of the city.
It's now two years since Wollongong was approved to be part of the NSW E-scooter Shared Scheme Trial, which was extended recently to 22 January 2026.
At present, the Neuron hire scooters are only available to be ridden between Wollongong city and Woonona surf club, but the company is eyeing off future expansion opportunities.
"We're encouraged that riders have embraced the e-scooter program in Wollongong," said Jayden Bryant, general manager of Neuron Mobility Australia and New Zealand. "With over 460,000 kilometres travelled since the trial began in September 2023, it has quickly become an integral part of the city's transport network."
According to Neuron's website, the company currently operates in 11 Australian cities, including regional towns like Busselton in WA, Ballarat in Victoria and Bundaberg, Yeppoon, Rockhampton and Townsville in Queensland.
Wollongong trial hugely successful
Neuron says Wollongong is the most successful city in NSW when it comes to the use of rental e-scooters.
"We're proud to be playing a role in making Wollongong more accessible, sustainable, and better connected," Jayden said. "We'd like to thank the city council for their continued trust and support as we work together to enhance mobility options across the city."
Neuron has been so impressed with the popularity of their bright orange scooters they're hoping to broaden their footprint in Wollongong and possibly beyond.
According to a Neuron survey, 86 per cent of riders reported they would use e-scooters more often if they were available in more areas of Wollongong. The most in-demand locations are North Wollongong, West Wollongong and Fairy Meadow. Riders say they’re keen to ride into more of the city’s northern suburbs, with Bulli, Thirroul and Austinmer among the requested locations.
"We would certainly support an expansion of the riding area, which would significantly enhance the service. We remain in discussions with the council and Transport for NSW on this," Neuron's general manager added.
Peak usage in the warmer months
A spokesperson for Council said data reported to them has shown the use of the hire scooters has remained steady with peaks in the summer months.
"As of July 2025, over 246,000 trips have been made covering over 450,000 kilometres," the spokesperson said,
As for whether e-scooters will become a permanent fixture on our cycle and pathways, Council says its hands are tied.
"Council awaits confirmation of legislative updates from the NSW Government for e-scooters to enable a long-term decision to be made on e-scooter shared schemes in Wollongong."
Neuron claims to be the leading e-scooter hire operator in Australia and Canada. In 2024 its riders completed 5.9 million trips covering over 11 million kilometres, across 30 cities, 16 based in Canada.
