NSW child e-bike injuries rise sharply as a minimum age review lands

Child injuries from e-bikes and e-scooters have risen sharply in New South Wales, according to ABC News on 1 October. Sydney Children's Hospitals Network recorded 40 presentations for e-bike and e-scooter injuries in 2023, 78 in 2024 and 166 in 2025.

Minimum age review

ABC reports that an expert review led by Transport for NSW has recommended a legal age limit between 12 and 16 years. Transport Minister John Graham said he does not think it is sensible to have primary school kids on these heavy e-bikes. The age proposal was first announced in February (NRMA, 23 February). No final age or start date has been confirmed in the reporting we reviewed.

The current rules

ABC describes a legal NSW e-bike as having a maximum continuous power of 500 watts, a motor that cuts out at 6 km/h if the rider is not pedalling, and an assisted speed limit of 25 km/h. Rules differ by state and have been changing, so check your own state's current requirements before buying.

What it means for buyers

If you are buying for a teenager or younger child in NSW, the age rule is still a proposal, so watch for the published report before spending on a high powered bike. Whatever the outcome, a compliant bike and a helmet are the baseline. On BikeFinder you can compare e-bikes by motor, assist cut off and price to shortlist models that sit within the rules.