Public Transport Users Association (PTUA) statement on e-bikes: ‘We don’t think a blanket ban of e-bikes and e-scooters from trains is the best way forward. A more nuanced approach is needed, addressing safety but not losing the obvious advantages for first mile/last mile connectivity.’

The media has been full of articles on e-bikes and an apparent looming ‘ban’ on public transport and trains due to safety concerns with lithium-ion battery fires.

The issue sits at Federal government level with grey imports, insufficient regulations and resulting dodgy conversions – ‘banning’ e-bikes wholesale across public transport networks will not solve the battery problems or compliance and create major accessibility barriers for many people who use e-bikes as a safe, convenient form of micro-mobility. 

Our inner suburbs have large numbers of gig economy workers, many who travel from middle – outer suburbs via Melbourne’s train network, this ‘ban’ doesn’t mention the impact any restrictions would have directly on gig economy workers, adjacent industries to local hospo industry and Yarra’s local business economy.

‘The draft regulations include new regulations to restrict e-scooters, e-bikes and other battery-powered transport devices on public transport.’

Learn more:

Listen back to Dr Elliot Fishman on YarraBUG Radio on 3CR: People with e-bikes losing access to public transport (4 August 2025)