What’s Happening?
A new Queensland Government scheme is giving existing legal e-bike owners a pathway to verify their devices, with a compliance deadline set for 28 February 2027.
The Electrically Power-Assisted Cycle (EPAC) Assurance Scheme began rolling out on 2 November 2026. Eligible electric bicycles can undergo safety inspections and receive permanent compliance labels if they meet the required standards.
The initiative is part of broader e-mobility reforms aimed at supporting legitimate riders while addressing dangerous devices on public roads and paths.
Why It Matters
The assurance scheme provides an option for Queenslanders who have already purchased legitimate electric bicycles to establish whether their devices meet the state’s requirements.
However, the Department of Transport and Main Roads has ruled out dangerous, high-powered and high-speed devices from the compliance pathway.
Department of Transport and Main Roads Land Transport Safety & Regulation General Manager Joanna Robinson emphasised the distinction between legitimate electric bicycles and unsafe alternatives.
“Dangerous, high-powered and high-speed devices will not be eligible.”
The Department says the scheme is intended to provide certainty for people who rely on legitimate e-bikes for transport.
Local Impact
The scheme will be introduced in phases through trained bicycle retailers across Queensland. The Department of Transport and Main Roads is working with Bicycle Industries Australia to expand the network of authorised inspection locations.
The rollout also includes provisions for rural and remote riders who cannot access an authorised retailer. The Department says alternative options will be available, although the media release does not outline those arrangements.
Key Points
- $70 fee cap: Inspection and labelling charges are capped at $70 under the scheme.
- Adapted devices: Eligible e-bikes and e-trikes designed or modified for people with disabilities or medical conditions can also seek compliance.
- Industry partnership: Bicycle Industries Australia is supporting the rollout and helping develop the inspection network.
Zoom In
Under the new process, trained bicycle retailers will assess eligible electric bicycles against key safety requirements. Devices that pass inspection will receive permanent labels confirming their compliance.
Robinson said the initiative would help owners continue using eligible devices legally in public.
“The EPAC Assurance Scheme is a practical pathway for riders to have their existing e-bike inspected, labelled and to continue riding it legally,” Ms Robinson said.
The inspection and labelling process is intended for existing devices that qualify under the scheme, rather than providing approval for every type of electric bicycle.
Zoom Out
The assurance scheme is being introduced alongside changes to Queensland’s learner driver education programs.
During November 2026, e-mobility information will be added to PrepL, the online course used to obtain a learner licence, and PrepL Supervisor modules. The updated content will cover safe riding, legal e-mobility devices and sharing roads and paths with other users.
Bicycle Industries Australia General Manager Peter Bourke welcomed the reforms.
“Safe and compliant e-bikes are a fantastic transport solution, and Bicycle Industries Australia strongly supports measures that help riders access products that are safe, legal and fit for purpose,” Mr Bourke said.
He also highlighted the industry’s role in helping owners understand the requirements.
“Bicycle Industries Australia is pleased to support the program, which will help e-bike owners understand whether their bike meets the Queensland requirements and gives bicycle businesses an opportunity to provide practical assistance.”
What To Look For Next?
The Department of Transport and Main Roads will continue working with Bicycle Industries Australia to expand the inspection network as the phased rollout progresses.
Updated PrepL and PrepL Supervisor education materials will also be introduced during November 2026. Existing legal e-bike owners have until the February 2027 deadline to complete verification and labelling for continued legal public use.
