E-bike training at schools proves education and registration works

E-bike training at schools is proving how well education and registration works, delivering improved safety and accountability for young riders and a blueprint for reform, according to Northern Beaches MPs.

St Luke’s Grammar School in Dee Why is leading the way. It recently introduced an e-bike program for senior students run by E Bike Safety Australia (EBSA), in response to community concerns. The program equips young riders with the knowledge and tools to ride responsibly, and provide accountability through a Student ID system.

The program is making a positive impact, according to the school.

“As a school we are passionate about this program because student safety is our priority. Their education on E-Bike safety is an important piece provided by the EBSA program. We love that our students have to pass the online test before they are given the plate which assists in keeping them accountable as safe riders. We know how valuable this form of transport is to our families and hope this means that students will be able to enjoy independence along with a sense of responsibility.”  Mrs Gaby Smith, Dean of Students (10-12), St Luke’s Grammar School

Ben Horwood of E-Bike Safety Australia, who runs the program said:  “E-bike use is exploding on the Northern Beaches, but so are the safety challenges. Our school program delivers education and an accountability system to encourage students to ride safely, and deters poor behaviour. This is a practical solution to manage a problem which exists in the community and we are happy St Lukes are being proactive on the issue.”

The program has the support of local MPs, including independent member for Pittwater Jacqui Scruby, who launched her own Private Members Bill in parliament on Thursday March 19. The Road Legislation Amendment (E-Bike Regulation) Bill 2025 expands the Minister’s powers to allow licensing and registration, and limits speeds on footpaths.

“By introducing education and a kind of registration, schools like St Luke’s, together with EBSA, are taking action and putting safety first. They are educating students and making riders accountable, and are a prime example of how well these kinds of measures can work.

“I’d like to go further than voluntary school programs, and see education, licensing and registration made law. I’m pro e-bikes, but we need to tackle safety. We can all see the dangers. The premise of my legislation is simple: If you drive a motorised bike you should know the road rules and be able to be held to account for complying with them.

“Unfortunately licensing and registration are being ignored by the NSW Government, even though they are the missing link in addressing dangerous riding - making riders accountable and supporting insurance that protects those injured by e-bikes.”

Fellow Northern Beaches MPs praised St Luke’s for taking the initiative and are in support of licensing and registration.

Member for Wakehurst Michael Regan said: “E-bikes are a great way for young people to stay active and get around our community, but safety and accountability have to come first. Programs like E Bike Safety Australia's are giving kids the skills, awareness and responsibility they need and importantly, they’re leading the way for government by showing what’s possible with practical, community-led solutions here on the Northern Beaches. That’s why I strongly support Jacqui Scruby’s e-bike regulation bill. She’s showing real leadership on this issue, and it’s a sensible step forward to improve safety, strengthen accountability and give our community confidence that we’re getting this right.”

Member for Manly James Griffin said: “Getting the best outcome for young riders and pedestrians is something all MP’s on the beaches want. Licensing and registration is a fundamental part of creating accountability for young riders. A licensing scheme is fairer, smarter and can actually be implemented, unlike a blanket ban. I congratulate St Luke’s for embracing this opportunity and demonstrating what good looks like”

Quotes from St Lukes Students:

Jude said the test that students have to pass as part of the training was useful: “It's very similar to the L test that every driver has to do, so you're learning the exact same rules that a driver would do, so everyone knows the same rules.”

Dane said the training had helped: “I found it really good because it teaches young kids basically what safety restrictions are, what restrictions your bike has to match, and what you have to wear, and especially your helmet to keep people safe.”

“My e-bike changed my life because I can hang out with my friends and it's given me more freedom and sort of responsibility about having to know all the safety restrictions.”