Thinking of Buying an E-Bike for Your Child? What Australian Parents Need to Know

E-bikes are fast becoming a popular choice for Australian families. They’re convenient, fun, and can make school commutes or weekend rides easier, BUT…. before you give in to pester-power, it’s important to understand the safety risks, rising injury numbers, and proposed changes to the law.

Here’s what parents need to know in 2026.

Injury Rates Are Rising

As e-bike use has grown, so have injuries — particularly among children and teenagers.

Recent hospital data reported by ABC News shows that 94 children were treated for e-bike injuries in Sydney in 2025, up from 60 in 2024 and 33 in 2023. Doctors say injuries range from broken wrists and collarbones to serious head trauma.

Meanwhile, reporting from The Daily Telegraph highlighted that e-bike injuries in NSW have doubled in a year, with concerns about high-powered and modified bikes capable of travelling well above legal speeds.

Emergency departments in both New South Wales and Queensland are seeing more crashes involving e-bike accidents – especially involving children taking to the roads on modified e-bikes without proper protective gear.

So, What Are the Current E-Bike Rules and Age Restrictions?

In Australia, there is currently no minimum age restriction around e-bike use and, provided the e-bike meets the following standards, is classified as a bicycle.

To be legal for use on public roads and paths, e-bikes must:

• Be pedal assist (meaning - the motor only works when pedalling)
• Have a maximum continuous power of 250 watts
• Cut motor assistance at 25 km/h
• Comply with European standard EN15194
• All riders must wear an approved helmet and follow standard road rules.

If a bike exceeds these limits, or has been modified, it may legally be classified as a motorbike, which means registration, licensing, and insurance would be required.

Proposed & Emerging Law Changes

With injury numbers climbing, most Australian States (particularly NSW) are currently considering the need to tightened regulations around e-bike use.

Proposed and recent changes include:

Stronger Product Safety Rules

New requirements aim to ensure all e-bikes sold meet safety and battery standards.

New safety standards require e-bikes and their lithium-ion batteries to meet approved testing and certification requirements before they can be sold in NSW.

This is partly in response to fire risks and unsafe imported models entering the market, which have become an increasing concern.

Crackdown on Illegal & Modified Bikes

Police have increased enforcement powers to seize and destroy high-powered or tampered e-bikes that don’t comply with legal limits. Police now have greater ability to seize non-complaint e-bikes.

Possible Age Restrictions

There are also growing calls for:

• Minimum age requirements
• Mandatory rider education
• Registration or licensing for high-risk models

While not all these measures are law yet, policy discussions are ongoing, particularly in response to youth injury trends.

Because regulations differ between states and territories, parents should check their local transport authority before purchasing.

How Parents Can Buy Safely

If you’re considering an e-bike for your child, here’s how to reduce risk:

Choose a Compliant Model

Ensure it clearly states compliance with Australian safety standards, is pedal-assisted, and avoid throttle-only or high-power bikes marketed online.

Buy From a Reputable Retailer

Cheap imported models may not meet safety standards - even if advertised as “legal”, so look for that European standard EN15194 tick of approval!

Prioritise Helmet Fit

A properly fitted, approved helmet is essential for every ride… no exceptions!

Consider Your Child’s Age & Maturity

E-bikes are heavier and accelerate faster than standard bicycles, meaning younger children may struggle with control and hazard awareness.

Teach Road Awareness

Make sure your child understands:

• Speed control
• Sharing paths with pedestrians
• Visibility and signalling
• Defensive riding habits

Final Thoughts

E-bikes can offer independence, convenience and outdoor activity for young people, but they are not toys.

With injury numbers rising and regulations tightening, parents need to balance convenience with safety, legality, and consideration around insurance claims if your child causes injury to other road users.

So, before buying, ask yourself:

• Is my child experienced enough?
• Is my child physically strong enough to safely handle and control an e‑bike?
• Does my child’s e-bike meet Australian safety standards?
• Do I trust my uninsured child to behave responsibly and avoid exposing our family to possible legal action if my child hurts some?
• Do we understand the rules around e-bike use in the local area?

Making an informed decision now can help prevent injuries (and legal headaches!) later.

How Lawgix can help:

E-bikes offer independence and convenience, but when things go wrong, the legal consequences can be significant. Seeking early advice can help protect your child and your family’s financial position.

If you would like guidance tailored to your circumstances, our team at Lawgix is here to assist.