The New South Wales government has announced a major crackdown on the power and speed of electric bicycles, following a tragic collision that claimed the life of a rider in Sydney's inner west.
Immediate Regulatory Changes Announced
In a swift response to the fatal incident, the state's transport minister, Jo Haylen, confirmed that new regulations will be introduced from 1 February 2026. The changes will significantly reduce the legal limits for e-bikes across the state.
The maximum allowable motor power will be slashed from 500 watts to 250 watts. Furthermore, the top speed at which the motor can provide assistance will be reduced from 25 kilometres per hour to just 15 km/h. These measures are designed to enhance safety for all road users.
The announcement comes after a 53-year-old man died when his e-bike collided with a garbage truck on the corner of Parramatta Road and Mallett Street in Camperdown. The crash occurred at approximately 5:20 am on a recent Monday morning.
Addressing the "Significant Safety Risk"
Minister Haylen stated that the current rules, which were adopted from European standards, are not suitable for the dense, shared environments of NSW. She identified high-powered vehicles posing a "significant safety risk" to riders, pedestrians, and other motorists.
"The death in Camperdown is a heartbreaking reminder that we need to get the settings right to keep everyone safe," Haylen said. The minister emphasised that the government's priority is to prevent further tragedies while still encouraging active transport.
Authorities are also focusing on compliance and enforcement. Transport for NSW will initiate a new campaign to ensure retailers and importers understand and adhere to the incoming regulations. This includes verifying that all e-bikes sold meet the new 250-watt power cap.
Industry Reaction and Future Considerations
The announcement has sparked concern within the cycling and retail industries. The chief executive of the Bicycle Industries Australia, Peter Bourke, warned that the new 15 km/h assist limit is slower than the average commuting cyclist and could severely deter people from choosing e-bikes for transport.
Bourke argued that the focus should be on separating cyclists from heavy traffic and educating all road users, rather than drastically reducing vehicle performance. He suggested that the new rules might push people towards unregulated and potentially more dangerous vehicles.
Meanwhile, the investigation into the Camperdown fatality continues. NSW Police have established a crime scene and are preparing a report for the coroner. A spokesperson for Cleanaway, the company that operated the garbage truck involved, confirmed they are assisting police with their inquiries.
This regulatory shift places NSW on a stricter path compared to other Australian states, setting a precedent that may influence national policy discussions on micromobility safety.
