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26 September 2024
E-bike rebates roll out in Queensland

Queenslanders will find it a little easier to buy an e-bike from this week, as the state government kicks off a rebate scheme aimed at cutting transport emissions.

The $1 million E-Mobility Rebate Scheme provides e-bike buyers with a $500 rebate towards the purchase price, provided their new ride meets the criteria.

Rebates are on offer for electrically power-assisted cycles (EPAC) with a maximum continuous rated power of 250 watts that cuts out when the rider reaches 25/km/h, or stops pedalling.

Power-assisted e-bikes are also eligible, but power output is limited to 200 watts and they must not be capable of travelling faster than 6km/h when the user isn’t pedalling, and 25km/h when they are.

Also on offer are $200 rebates for eligible e-scooters.

The scheme is a part of the Queensland's Zero Emission Vehicle Strategy 2022-2032, and is another sign of growing recognition that e-bikes have a key role to play in the transition to net zero.

But the benefits of widespread e-bike use go beyond reductions in transport emissions, by also promoting active lifestyles, reducing traffic congestion and improving access to transportation.

Modelling presented to the Queensland Government by WeRide earlier this year revealed an return of $7 for every $1 invested in e-bike subsidies.

Bicycle Queensland has also campaigned for the state government's electric vehicle rebates to be extended to e-bikes.

The rebate program is live, though funds are expected to be exhausted quickly.

Interested Queenslanders can head to the webpage to access full details of the eligibility criteria and apply for rebates.

The scheme makes Queensland the second Australian state to introduce rebates for e-bikes following the program in Tasmania launched last year.

They have also been introduced at local government level in Adelaide.

Bicycle Network is continuing to campaign for financial incentives that make it easier for all Australians to own an e-bike. Read more on our campaign page here.

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