What’s Happening?
Queensland has introduced a new e-bike assurance scheme, giving owners of existing legal e-bikes until 28 February 2027 to complete verification and labelling for continued legal public use.
The Electrically Power-Assisted Cycle (EPAC) Assurance Scheme began rolling out on 2 November 2026. It offers eligible devices a pathway to compliance as part of the Queensland Government’s wider e-mobility reforms.
Why It Matters
The scheme aims to provide certainty for Queenslanders who have invested in legitimate electric bicycles, while distinguishing compliant devices from dangerous, high-powered alternatives.
Department of Transport and Main Roads Land Transport Safety & Regulation General Manager Joanna Robinson said the reforms would support responsible riders.
“Dangerous, high-powered and high-speed devices will not be eligible.”
The Department says the scheme recognises the importance of e-bikes as a transport option while maintaining safety requirements for public use.
Local Impact
The Department of Transport and Main Roads is working with Bicycle Industries Australia to develop an inspection network across Queensland. Trained bicycle retailers will deliver the scheme through a phased rollout, rather than all locations beginning inspections at once.
The Department has also confirmed that alternative options will be available for riders in rural and remote areas who cannot access an authorised retailer.
Key Points
- $70 fee cap: Inspection and labelling charges will not exceed this amount under the scheme.
- Accessible mobility: Eligible e-bikes and e-trikes designed or modified for people with disabilities or medical conditions have a compliance pathway.
- Industry involvement: Bicycle Industries Australia is supporting the reforms and helping develop the inspection network.
Zoom In
Under the assurance scheme, trained bicycle retailers will assess eligible e-bikes against key safety requirements. Devices that pass inspection will receive permanent compliance labels, allowing their owners to continue using them legally in public.
Robinson described the process as a practical option for existing owners.
“The EPAC Assurance Scheme is a practical pathway for riders to have their existing e-bike inspected, labelled and to continue riding it legally,” Ms Robinson said.
The scheme does not provide a pathway for dangerous, high-powered or high-speed devices, which remain ineligible.
Zoom Out
Alongside the assurance scheme, Queensland will introduce e-mobility education through its learner driver training materials during November 2026.
The changes will affect PrepL, the online course used to obtain a learner licence, as well as PrepL Supervisor education modules. Learner licence applicants will receive information about safe riding behaviours, legal device requirements and sharing roads and paths with other users.
Bicycle Industries Australia General Manager Peter Bourke welcomed the industry’s role in the reforms.
“Safe and compliant e-bikes are a fantastic transport solution, and Bicycle Industries Australia strongly supports measures that help riders access products that are safe, legal and fit for purpose,” Mr Bourke said.
What To Look For Next?
The Department will continue working with Bicycle Industries Australia to expand the inspection network across Queensland. Meanwhile, the updated learner driver education modules will roll out during November 2026.