The New South Wales Government has modified its proposed train travel ban on e-bikes, deciding that only e-bikes built from kits will be denied access to the train network.
The government ban applies to bicycles that have been converted into e-bikes by fitting aftermarket motors and battery packs as they have a higher fire risk due to amateur installations, inadequate wiring and use of second-hand batteries and incompatible or poor-quality components.
Other e-bikes, shared e-bikes and mobility devices will not be impacted; however Transport for NSW will continue to monitor all e-micromobility incidents closely.
Riders taking a converted e-bike on Sydney Train, Trainlink or Metro services, will face penalties of $400 to $1110 from 1 November 2025, comparable to the fine for people who take petrol-powered devices onto a train or railway premises.
Although the ban is still more than a month away, the government has asked riders not to take the banned bikes on trains before then.
The move comes after extensive consultation with the rail and fire authorities, unions, e-bike users, delivery services, shared-scheme operators and passengers.
To support the ban of converted e-bikes on trains, Transport for NSW will provide additional training for staff, conduct hotspot blitzes, and increase public messaging about the fire risk of modified devices.
To improve standards across all e-bikes, the NSW and Victorian transport ministers have written a joint letter to the Commonwealth Government requesting their support in strengthening Australia’s approach to the safety of e-devices, to ensure that all devices imported, sold and used in Australia are safe and fit for purpose.
The NSW Government is drafting legislation to better regulate shared devices, recognising the important role e-micromobility devices will play in mode shift and completing the ‘last mile’ between train stations and destinations and .
NSW Minster for Transport John Graham said: “We take the safety of our rail passengers and staff very seriously which is why we are taking the highest risk e-bikes out of train carriages."
“The overwhelming message from the consultation was that banning all e-bikes from trains would go too far. Taking out the highest risk e-bikes is a sensible and balanced step, but we will watch this space very closely and take further action if necessary.
“E-bikes are becoming more popular and playing an increasing role in our transport network. Our aim is to allow people to enjoy their advantages whilst keeping everyone safe.”
The Victorian Government has also proposed a ban on e-bikes travelling on trains because of the risk of fire.
Victoria's consultation drew a strong negative reaction to any proposed blanket ban on e-bikes, as many who travel with e-bikes have high quality products that have a clear history of insignificant risk of battery fires.
No outcomes from the consultation are yet public, however, discussions with key stakeholders, including Bicycle Network, are continuing.
Meanwhile, Energy Safe Victoria has issued a warning about e-bikes that have been modified to extract additional performance.
The move followed a house fire caused by an e-bike battery in West Melton that was so extensive the house will be demolished.
Fire Rescue Victoria found that the bike the battery belonged to had survived the fire, and displayed modifications to the power system.
Energy Safe Victoria CEO Leanne Hughson said: "People are often trying to save time or money or boost their device’s performance, but these batteries are powerful and volatile when misused.
"They can overheat, catch fire or explode in seconds – the risks are simply not worth it.”
She said the public should follow these safety practices:
- Always purchase products from reputable suppliers and only use compatible, manufacturer-approved chargers.
- Never modify battery systems or chargers.
- Charge devices on non-flammable surfaces and away from bedrooms and exits.
- Monitor devices while charging and unplug when battery is fully charged.
- Stop using damaged or overheating batteries immediately.
- In event of fire, call Triple Zero (000) and evacuate immediately.
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