Reforms to road transport laws will allow the use of electric skateboards (e-skateboards) by people living with a disability that impairs their mobility.
Minister for Infrastructure, Cities and Active Transport Rob Stokes said the amendment was about providing greater freedom and more options for people who need it most.
“Active transport is about liberating people from reliance on motor vehicles to get from A to B, in a way that is convenient and beneficial to their lives,” Mr Stokes said.
“These are common sense changes based on feedback from disability groups and advocates that will make life better and easier for many.
“These changes will allow a person living with a disability that affects their mobility to use an e-skateboard on public roads and footpaths, just as electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters are permitted now.”
Member for Port Macquarie Leslie Williams welcomed the changes that would make a difference to many people in her local community.
“It seemed silly that a device critical to people’s freedom of mobility and paid for by the NDIS was illegal to use in NSW. That’s why I raised it with the Minister and now welcome the changes,” Mrs Williams said.
“It is thanks to the passionate advocacy of Steve Lyons who raised his concerns with me at a meeting last year there will now be more choice for people who need it.
Users will not be permitted to exceed a speed of 10km/h. They will also be required to obtain and carry certification from a medical or health practitioner stating that they are able to use the device as a mobility aid.
To enable the use of e-skateboards as a motorised mobility device, regulatory amendments are required, including to the NSW Road Rules 2014, Road Transport (Driver Licencing) Regulation 2017 and the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2017. The reform will come into effect Friday 24 February 2023.