Know the rules. Ride with confidence.

Know the rules. Ride with confidence.

Mobility scooters provide independence and freedom for many Australians. To stay safe and legal, it’s important to understand the laws that apply in your state or territory. These regulations determine where mobility scooters can be used, who can operate them, and whether registration, safety flags, or identification plates are required.

While each state and territory has its own rules, some general guidelines apply across the country. The maximum speed allowed for mobility scooters is typically 10 km/h on level ground. These scooters are intended for use by individuals with mobility impairments, and no driver's licence is required anywhere in Australia. Helmets are generally not mandatory, and scooters are mostly restricted to footpaths and shared paths. Registration and display of plates are only required in Queensland. Additionally, Queensland mandates a safety flag when riding on the road, while other states recommend visibility aids for safety.

In Victoria, mobility scooters can be used on footpaths and shared paths by individuals with genuine mobility needs. Registration and plates are not required, and the maximum speed is 10 km/h.

In New South Wales, mobility scooters are treated as pedestrians and must be used on footpaths only. There is no requirement for registration or plates, and the speed limit is 10 km/h.

Queensland has more specific requirements: registration is mandatory, plates must be displayed, and an orange safety flag, at least two metres high, is required when riding on roads. The unladen weight of the scooter must not exceed 110 kilograms, and the speed limit remains 10 km/h.

Tasmania permits the use of mobility scooters on footpaths and shared paths. Registration and plates are not required, and the speed limit is 10 km/h.

In Western Australia, scooters are allowed on footpaths for people with mobility needs. Registration and plates are not necessary, though visibility aids such as flags or reflective gear are strongly encouraged. The speed limit is 10 km/h.

The Northern Territory classifies mobility scooters as pedestrian vehicles, permitting their use on footpaths and shared paths. Registration and plates are not required, and the speed limit is 10 km/h.

South Australia allows mobility scooters on footpaths for people with disabilities. Registration is voluntary but not mandatory, plates are not required, and the speed limit is 10 km/h.

In the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), scooters may be used on footpaths and shared paths without the need for registration or plates. The speed limit is 10 km/h.

Before riding, always ensure your mobility scooter complies with local laws and regulations. Maintain your scooter in good working order and consider using visibility aids, especially in low-light conditions. For the most current information, check with your state or territory’s official transport authority.