Frequently Asked Questions

What is a PMD?

This is the favoured term used in Australia by the National Transport Commission.

"Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs) represent a specific category of micro-mobility transport systems and include electric skateboards and electric scooters. PMDs are a category that includes a variety of devices that are small, portable and designed to carry one person over short to medium distances."

Is it currently legal to ride a PMD?

It is illegal to ride a PMD in NSW, Victoria, SA and the Northern Territory unless on private property such as your driveway. It is only legal to ride a PMD in Queensland, Western Australia, Tasmania and the ACT.

What are the consequences?

These can vary wildly between different states and examples range from a $114 fine in NSW for riding a footpath, through to a double whammy of driving an unregistered vehicle ($826) and unlicensed driving ($3600) in Victoria. PMDs can also be impounded and licences may be suspended.

Law enforcement officers have the discretion to issue any of these penalties or write an official warning as they see fit.

How do people ride when it is illegal?

Most users ride despite the risks of fines through common sense approaches such as not attracting the attention of police, being respectful of pedestrians and wearing a helmet. By doing so, this reduces your risk of attracting the attention of law enforcement.

However, even if you have a common sense approach to riding, it is still illegal in 4 states territories in Australia.

I have heard that PMDs are now covered in the Australian Road Rules. What’s next?

Please read this update about where things are with the legalisation process, and what is coming next.

Please also consider volunteering your skills or donating to our campaign.

Why should I care if it’s legalised in my state already?

Support your fellow Australians in other states. Straya! 

Seriously though, your support from Queensland, Western Australia, Tasmania and ACT will also be important for our other advocacy goals - to increase Government funding for dedicated off-road micromobilty lanes and all terrain trails in your local neighbourhood.

An upcoming Transport and Infrastructure Council meeting to accept changes to the Australian Road Rules will require unanimous support from every State Transport Minister, including from states where it is already legal.

Where can I find group rides near me?

Grassroots groups can be found here.

Group rides are organised through these groups, although special members-only events are also regularly scheduled through our upcoming membership portal.

What safety gear do you recommend?

At a minimum we recommend a helmet that meets safety classification. Other recommendations depending on your speed, terrain and experience include wrist guards, knee pads, elbow pads, crash pads, mouth guard, neck brace and lights for night riding.

Are PMDs safe?

Yes! Like any vehicle adequate training and protective equipment is a must for safe and responsible riding.

Are PMDs easy to learn?

Yes!

I have a hoverboard/Segway shoes - can I ride that on the footpath?

Technically these are still considered an electric Personal Mobility Device and as such are not authorised to use the footpath or any other public area. Join us and help make these legal too!