Key Federal E-Bike Requirements
To be considered a legal, non-motorized vehicle, an e-bike must comply with the following, primarily based on the reinstated EN 15194 standard:

• Motor Power:Maximum continuous rated power of 250 watts.
• Speed Cut-off:Motor assistance must stop when the bike reaches 25 km/h.
• Pedal Assist:The motor must only provide assistance when the rider is pedalling.
• Throttle Usage:Throttles are generally restricted, with permissible models only allowing power up to 6 km/h (walk-assist).
• Safety Standards:Compliance with EN 15194 (European standard) for electrical and mechanical safety.
• Anti-Tampering:New federal rules include requirements for anti-tampering protocols to prevent consumers from modifying the bike for higher speeds.

Key Changes and Trends (2025–2026)

• Import Crackdown:Due to a rise in battery fires and safety incidents, the Federal Government has strengthened import rules to require EN 15194 compliance for all new imported e-bikes.
• Non-Compliant Bikes:Any e-bike that exceeds 250W or provides power above 25 km/h without pedalling is considered an unregistered motor vehicle, with strict penalties (fines over $1,000) and potential, or in some cases (NSW), immediate seizure/destruction by police.

Safety and Operation

• Helmets:A helmet meeting Australian standards is mandatory.
• Battery Safety:Increased focus on lithium-ion battery safety, encouraging the use of certified chargers and discouraging unattended charging.
• Footpaths:Rules for riding on footpaths vary by state/territory, with most allowing it for children under 16, but restrictions exist for adults in places like NSW and Victoria.

Key Australian Customs & Import Regulations for E-Bikes

• Compliant “Bicycle” Definition (No Approval Needed):

• Pedal-Assist (Pedelec):Max 250W continuous power, motor cuts off at 25 km/h.
• Throttle-Controlled:Max 200W continuous power, cannot be propelled solely by the motor (must require pedalling).
• Safety Standards:Compliance with EN15194 (European standard) is heavily required.
• Labelling:The bike should have a sticker/label indicating it meets these standards.

• Import Approval Required: If your e-bike exceeds 200W (throttle) or 250W (pedal-assist), it is classified as a motor vehicle. You must apply for an import approval permit from the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications via the ROVER portal before shipping.

• Customs Process:
  • Duties/GST:Goods with a value of AUD 1000 or less may not incur duties, but GST can apply.
  • Inspection:Australian Border Force (ABF) may inspect, test, or hold bikes that appear to be high-powered/motorbikes, charging storage fees until compliance is proven.

• Document Checklist:

• Manufacturer’s specifications/brochure.
• Certificate of compliance with EN15194.
• Proof of purchase/value.

 

If the bike is over the power/speed limit, it cannot be registered for road use and is limited to private property use only.

Compliant electric bikes (e-bikes) in NSW do not require registration, licensing, or compulsory third-party (CTP) insurance. To be exempt from registration, the e-bike must have a maximum 250-watt pedal-assist motor, or a 200-watt throttle motor that cuts out at 25km/h. There are no registration fees for these compliant bikes.

 

Key Rules for E-Bike Registration in NSW

• Compliant E-bikes (No Fees):If your e-bike meets the power (250W/200W) and speed requirements, it is considered a bicycle under NSW law.
• Non-Compliant/High-Powered Bikes:If an e-bike exceeds these limits, it is classified as a motorbike and must be registered. If used on public roads without registration, penalties range from $686 to $2200.
• Petrol-Powered Bikes:These are generally illegal on NSW roads and public paths.
• Registration Costs (If required for high-powered):Fees for motorcycle-type registration in NSW typically include a registration fee, CTP Green Slip, and potentially a pink slip (if over 5 years old).

 

What can I do to get assistance?

CBA can assist you with meeting your regulatory obligations and provide accredited safety certification.

If you would like to know more on how CBA can assist you with your regulatory requirements, please contact us on 61 2 9099-1557 or email Gunther at gtheisz@certificationbody.com.au or Colin at cpayne@certificationbody.com.au.

For more information, please see our website – www.certificationbody.com.au.