Melbourne’s e-scooter trial to extend for another six months

Two years after they first hit Melbourne’s streets, a long-running e-scooter trial has been extended for a third time.

Melbourne’s long-running e-scooter trial will once again be extended for six months as officials look to collect more safety data.

Two years after the electric-powered vehicles first hit the city’s streets, the state government confirmed on Thursday it would push out its probationary period to investigate additional “safety and compliance” measures.

An initial trial, first launched in Ballarat back in December 2021, was later extended to the City of Melbourne, Yarra and Port Phillip council districts in February 2022.

Melburnians will have another six months to test their love for e-scooters. Picture: Supplied

It is the third time the trial across the inner city has been extended. The most recent extension took place last October and was due to expire on Friday.

More than eight million trips using for hire e-scooters under operators Lime and Neuron have been recorded during the trial period, the state government said.

A further 100,000 privately owned e-scooters were also considered part of the trial.

Although most riders were doing the right thing, use of the two-wheelers had raised concerns for emergency department doctors who were seeing an increase in injured riders.

Use of the two-wheelers had raised concerns for emergency department doctors. Picture: Steve Pohlner

A study by Alfred Health and Monash University last year reported a drastic rise in users – some affected by drugs and alcohol – presenting to hospital with serious injuries such as spinal damage and traumatic brain injuries.

Last December, a 73-year-old man died in hospital after he lost control while riding an e-scooter in Templestowe. It is understood he was not wearing a helmet.

Under the current trial, riders must be at least 16 years old and not ride on footpaths, always wear a helmet, not carry a passenger and or be intoxicated when operating an e-scooter.

Under the current trial, riders must always wear a helmet. Picture: Tara Croser

Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams said there was more work to be done to better protect riders ahead of a long-awaited roll out.

“E-scooters are here to stay – they’ve proven popular among commuters, especially shift workers, providing an additional option to travel home safely.”

“We have more work to do on safety and compliance to ensure that e-scooters are safe when they’re made permanent later this year.”

Acting executive officer of Victoria Walks, Duane Burt, told the Herald Sun the trial extension was “really disappointing.”

“The government is acknowledging that there are problems and saying they’ll make changes, but not actually making any at this point,” he said.

“The Government is saying they need more time, but they’ve actually had plenty of time already – the trial has been running for more than two years. And Victoria Walks have spent most of that time telling them exactly what changes are needed.”

The current trial will now end later this year on October 4.