Tweed Shire Council has welcomed new legislation from the NSW Government aimed at addressing illegal e-bike use across the state.
The Road Transport Amendment (Non-registrable Motor Vehicles) Bill 2026 introduces measures including roadside testing and strengthened enforcement powers targeting high-powered e-motorbikes being used illegally in public spaces.
The laws allow officers to test whether an e-bike exceeds the legal 25km/h speed limit at the roadside. Devices that do not meet the legal definition of a pedal-assisted e-bike – including those with throttle-only operation, excessive power output or modified speed limiters – may be seized and destroyed. NSW is the first state to introduce roadside testing units for this purpose.
Tweed Shire Mayor Chris Cherry said the changes reflect strong community sentiment.
“Tweed residents have made it clear they want to feel safe on shared pathways, in town centres and in neighbourhoods,” Cherry said.
“This legislation reflects what residents across the Tweed have been calling for, and we welcome the NSW Government’s response.”
Cherry said community concerns had been clearly articulated during recent local engagement.
“What came through at that meeting was a community that wants to get this right,” she said.
“Residents were not against e-bikes – they were asking for safety and respect in shared spaces.
“Council will continue working with the community and the NSW Government to ensure practical local needs are addressed.”
The NSW Government is also reminding parents to ensure any e-bike purchased for a child meets current legal requirements before being used on public roads or pathways, noting that not all devices sold comply with NSW standards.
