Queensland’s tough new e-mobility laws see 466 illegal e-bikes and scooters seized as first haul hits shredder

The first truckload of illegal e-bikes and other e-mobility devices seized under tough new laws has been reduced to scrap metal.

Police have seized 466 devices across Queensland so far, most of them e-bikes, as authorities target illegal models being used on roads and footpaths. The operation has also focused on known hotspots on the Gold Coast .

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Hundreds of illegal e-bikes shredded under tough new laws

It comes just weeks after new laws targeting illegal high-powered e-mobility devices came into effect.

The container was hauled to a Brisbane metal recycling yard on Monday, where the seized devices were fed into one of only a handful of industrial shredders in the state.

“We’re putting them through a shredder,” site manager Allen Floyd said.

“This is one of only a couple of shredders in Queensland and making into various small pieces. As you can see, those pieces behind me are all steel.”

Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg said the seizures showed the laws were already having an impact.

He said the crackdown should serve as a warning to people considering using illegal high-powered devices.

“And it should send a strong message to all of those Queenslanders who may be inclined to use these illegal high-powered devices,” Mickelberg said.

” Police will catch you , your device will be seized and it will be destroyed.”

The tougher laws came into effect on July 1, giving police powers to seize and destroy illegal e-bikes , e-scooters and other non-compliant devices.

Riders face tougher penalties for offences including speeding, drink riding, carrying passengers and failing to wear a helmet, while devices are generally limited to 25km/h on roads and 12km/h on footpaths and when passing pedestrians on shared paths.

Since August 31, most riders must also be at least 16 and hold a licence or learner permit.