New South Wales is making e-bike certification mandatory to address a critical public safety crisis driven by two main factors: a dramatic increase in dangerous lithium-ion battery fires and an alarming rise in serious road accidents. Unsafe, non-compliant, and illegally modified e-bikes have flooded the market, leading to devastating consequences.
Starting in February 2025, these new laws will require every e-bike and battery sold in NSW to be tested and certified against strict international safety standards, aiming to remove dangerous products at the source and protect consumers.
Why NSW Had to Act on E-Bike Safety
The decision to mandate certification wasn't made in a vacuum. It was a direct and necessary reaction to an undeniable public safety emergency. A surge in catastrophic house fires caused by faulty batteries, combined with a sharp increase in severe injuries and deaths from e-bike accidents, created a situation that regulators could no longer ignore.
Alarming Rise in Battery Fires and Explosions
The most urgent catalyst for the new laws is the terrifying trend of lithium-ion battery fires. Data from Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) paints a grim picture of an escalating crisis, with incidents growing exponentially each year. These are not small, containable fires; they are often violent, explosive events that occur with little warning, turning everyday products into life-threatening hazards.
The statistics are stark. The number of fires in NSW linked to e-micromobility devices jumped from just 23 in 2022 to 93 in 2024, with a total of 193 incidents recorded by early 2025. FRNSW now responds to a lithium battery fire almost every day, with many incidents involving catastrophic failure.
These events are characterized by a dangerous phenomenon called "thermal runaway," where a single damaged or defective battery cell overheats, triggering a violent and unstoppable chain reaction that causes the entire battery pack to explode.
Real-world examples highlight the severity of the danger:
- In Sadlier, an e-scooter battery explosion injured two men, one with shrapnel wounds and the other with burns and smoke inhalation.
- An e-bike fire in Daisyville forced a woman to flee her home, which was later deemed unlivable.
- In Annandale, three food delivery riders were hospitalized after an e-bike exploded in their apartment, with one suffering burns to 40% of his body.
Investigations consistently point to the same culprits: uncertified batteries, the use of incorrect or mismatched chargers, and dangerous DIY modifications. The core issue is not with e-bike technology itself, but with the flood of unregulated, low-quality products that have entered the market.
The new legislation is a targeted measure designed to eliminate these unsafe products, thereby protecting both consumers and the reputation of the legitimate e-bike industry.
Soaring Accident and Injury Rates
Alongside the fire risk, a dramatic spike in e-bike-related road trauma forced the government's hand. The increased speed and weight of e-bikes, especially when handled by inexperienced riders or illegally modified, have led to more frequent and more severe accidents, overwhelming emergency services and revealing a critical gap in public safety.
In the Illawarra region alone, NSW Ambulance recorded 200 serious accidents involving e-bikes and e-scooters in the 12-month period from June 2024 to July 2025—a rate described by officials as "alarming" and four times higher than expected. The injuries are often severe, including loss of consciousness, suspected spinal damage, and critical head trauma, particularly when riders fail to wear a helmet.
A study from St Vincent's Hospital found that over 500 e-bike riders required emergency room care in just two years, with a high percentage involving young males under the influence of alcohol.
The physics of these accidents explain the severity. E-bikes are heavier and faster than traditional bicycles, resulting in greater impact forces. Research shows that e-bike accidents are more than twice as likely to cause internal injuries and three times as likely to involve collisions with pedestrians compared to regular bikes.
This data reveals a dangerous mismatch between the capabilities of the technology and the awareness of the user. Many riders are caught off guard by the rapid acceleration and extra weight, leading to a loss of control.
The new regulations, by enforcing standards on power and speed cut-offs, create a safer performance baseline for all riders, addressing a key factor contributing to these accidents.
The Problem with Illegal and Modified E-Bikes
A major part of the safety crisis stems from a widespread and dangerous "grey market" of illegal e-bikes. These are devices that exceed the legal power and speed limits for a bicycle but are often sold—and purchased—without the required registration, licensing, or insurance, placing unsuspecting riders in significant legal and financial jeopardy.
To be legal on NSW roads, an e-bike must have a motor with a maximum continuous power of 500 watts, and the motor's assistance must cut off at 25 km/h. Any throttle is limited to providing assistance up to 6 km/h for startup only.
However, the market is flooded with bikes featuring 750W or 1000W motors. A critical point of confusion is that using software or a switch to limit a more powerful motor does not make it legal in NSW.
Legally, these overpowered bikes are classified as mopeds or motorcycles. This means they require registration, a driver's license, and Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance to be used on public roads. Riders caught on these illegal machines face a barrage of fines, including:
- Driving an unregistered vehicle: $686 to $2,200
- Driving an uninsured vehicle: $686 to $5,500
- Bike seizure by NSW Police
This situation created a dangerous loophole where a consumer could unknowingly purchase an illegal vehicle, shouldering all the risk. The new certification laws are designed to close this loophole at the source.
By making it illegal for retailers to sell non-compliant products, the government shifts the responsibility upstream, protecting consumers from the massive legal and financial risks of the grey market.
What NSW E-Bike Certification Laws Actually Means
The new NSW E-Bike Certification Laws represent a fundamental shift in how e-bikes are regulated. Instead of just focusing on road rules, the government is now treating e-bikes as high-risk electrical appliances. This allows them to enforce safety at the point of sale through two key mechanisms: mandatory product standards for the hardware and mandatory information standards for the user.
E-Bikes as "Declared Electrical Articles"
The cornerstone of the new legislation is the reclassification of e-bikes, e-scooters, and their lithium-ion batteries as "declared electrical articles" under the Gas and Electricity (Consumer Safety) Act 2017.
This seemingly technical change has massive implications. It moves e-bikes into the same regulatory category as other potentially hazardous household appliances, giving NSW Fair Trading the power to mandate safety standards before they can be legally sold.
This is a strategic shift from focusing on rider behavior (a Transport for NSW issue) to focusing on product safety (a NSW Fair Trading and consumer protection issue). The government recognized that the problem wasn't just how people were riding, but the inherent danger of the products being sold.
Regulating at the point of sale is a far more effective way to remove dangerous products from the community than attempting to police every rider on the street.
Product Safety Standards and Information Standards
The new framework is built on two pillars designed to address both unsafe products and unsafe user behavior. The Product Safety Standard tackles the hardware, ensuring it's built to a safe specification. The Information Standard tackles the "software"—the human element—by ensuring every buyer receives clear instructions on how to use their device safely.
Product Safety Standards: Effective from 1 February 2025, any e-bike or battery sold in NSW must be tested and certified to a list of approved international safety standards. This is the core of the new system, guaranteeing that the physical and electrical components of the device meet a verified safety baseline.
Information Standards: Also effective from February 2025 (with enforcement beginning 1 August 2025), all suppliers must provide clear and accurate safety information to the customer at the time of purchase. This must include details on safe charging, storage, maintenance, and disposal. Retailers who fail to provide this information face penalties of up to $5,500 for each breach.
This dual approach is comprehensive. It acknowledges that safety is a shared responsibility. The manufacturer is responsible for building a safe product, and the user is responsible for handling it correctly. These two standards work together to reduce risk from both equipment failure and human error.
What a Certified E-Bike Guarantees You
For the average buyer, certification acts as a simple, government-backed seal of approval. It cuts through the confusing technical jargon and provides assurance that the e-bike and its electrical system have met critical safety benchmarks, making it legal, safer, and more reliable.
A certified e-bike system guarantees that the product is:
- Legal to Sell and Ride: It meets the standards required for legal sale in NSW.
- Safer to Charge and Store: The battery includes a crucial Battery Management System (BMS) to protect against overcharging, overheating, and short-circuiting—the main causes of fires.
- A Complete, Tested System: The battery is paired with a certified charger designed to work with it safely, and the entire system is listed in the official Electrical Equipment Safety System (EESS) database.
In a market flooded with countless brands and confusing specifications, this mandatory certification creates a vital "trustmark." Instead of needing to be an expert in battery chemistry, a consumer can simply look for the certification and know the product has passed a rigorous safety evaluation. This simplifies the buying process and builds confidence in the legitimate, high-quality segment of the e-bike market.
How to Buy and Ride Legally in NSW
Navigating the new rules can seem daunting, but it comes down to a few key checks when buying and safe habits when owning. For buyers, it's about verifying certification and understanding the legal specifications. For current owners, it's about practicing life-saving battery maintenance and knowing the difference between sales regulations and on-road rules.
For Buyers: How to Spot a Certified E-Bike
As the new laws roll out, the way you verify a compliant e-bike will change. Initially, you'll need to be proactive and ask for proof from the retailer. Eventually, a mandatory label will make spotting a legal e-bike simple and straightforward.
From 1 February 2026: The process becomes easy. Every new e-bike sold in NSW must have a permanent certification label affixed to the frame. This will be the definitive proof of compliance.
Between Feb 2025 and Feb 2026: During this transition period, the burden is on the buyer to be diligent. When purchasing, you should:
- Ask the retailer for proof of certification. They must be able to show documentation that the e-bike complies with an approved standard (AS 15194, EN 15194, or UL 2849) and that the battery meets its own certification (like UL 2271).
- Check the charger for the Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM). This is a small logo with a triangle and a tick, indicating the charger meets Australian electrical safety standards.
- Be wary of red flags. Avoid sellers who can't provide clear documentation or use vague phrases like "safety tested" without naming the specific standard. Stick to reputable, established bicycle shops, as they are far more likely to sell compliant products.
To help clarify what is legal to ride on NSW roads, the table below breaks down the two types of permitted e-bikes.
| Feature | Power-Assisted Pedal Cycle | Electrically Power-Assisted Cycle (EPAC) |
| Max Continuous Motor Power | 200 watts | 500 watts |
| Motor Propulsion Rule | Cannot be propelled by the motor alone; rider must pedal. | Must be primarily propelled by the rider; motor is for assistance. |
| Max Assisted Speed Cut-Off | 25 km/h | 25 km/h |
| Throttle Rule | Not applicable; must be pedal-assist only. | Allowed for start-up assistance up to 6 km/h only. |
| Maximum Weight | Less than 50 kg (including batteries). | No weight limit specified. |
| Other Requirements | Must have a height-adjustable seat. | Power must progressively reduce as speed increases from 6 km/h to 25 km/h. |
For Owners: Essential Battery Safety and Maintenance
A certified battery is the first line of defense against fire, but responsible ownership is the second. Even the best battery can become a hazard if it's damaged, charged incorrectly, or stored improperly. Following these essential safety practices is non-negotiable for every e-bike owner.
Based on expert advice from Fire and Rescue NSW, follow these rules without exception:
Charging Practices:
Use the Original Charger: Never use an aftermarket or mismatched charger. The charger is part of the certified system and is designed to communicate with your battery's management system.
Charge in a Safe Location: Never charge in a bedroom, living area, or near an exit. The ideal place is a garage or shed on a concrete floor, away from flammable materials.
Never Charge Unattended: Do not leave your battery charging overnight or while you are out of the house. Unplug it as soon as it is full.
Ensure Smoke Alarms are Working: Always have a working smoke alarm in any area where you charge or store your e-bike.
Storage Practices:
Keep it Cool and Dry: Store your battery in a cool, dry place between 10°C and 20°C, away from direct sunlight or extreme heat.
Maintain Partial Charge for Storage: If you're not using the bike for an extended period, store the battery with a charge level between 30% and 60%. This prevents deep discharge and prolongs its life.
Regular Inspection:
Check for Damage: Periodically inspect your battery for any signs of damage, such as cracks, deep dents, swelling, or leaking fluid. A puffy or swollen battery is a sign of internal failure and is an extreme fire risk.
If Damaged, Stop Use Immediately: If you notice any damage or if the battery is behaving unusually (getting very hot, making strange noises), do not use or charge it. Contact the manufacturer or a specialist e-waste facility for safe disposal instructions.
Understanding NSW Road Rules vs. Sales Regulations
It's crucial to understand that two different government bodies regulate e-bikes, and their rules cover different things. NSW Fair Trading regulates what can be sold, while Transport for NSW regulates how you can ride. The new certification laws are designed to align these two, but during the transition, it's possible to buy an e-bike that is not legal to ride on the road.
Here’s the distinction:
NSW Fair Trading (Sales Law): This is the new certification framework. It governs the sale of e-bikes. From February 2025, retailers can only sell products that meet the mandatory safety and information standards.
Transport for NSW (Road Rules): These are the long-standing rules for riding on public roads and paths. They dictate the 500W power limit, the 25 km/h speed-assist cut-off, mandatory helmet use, and other traffic laws.
Before the new laws are fully enforced, a gap exists where a retailer could legally sell off old, uncertified stock. If that stock happens to be a 750W model, it is legal for them to sell it (until the deadline), but the moment the buyer rides it on a public path, they are breaking the road rules. The new certification laws will eventually close this gap, ensuring that any e-bike legally sold in NSW is also legal to ride.
The Timeline: Key Dates You Absolutely Need to Know
The new e-bike regulations are being introduced in stages over two years. This phased approach gives the industry time to adapt, but it's essential for consumers and retailers to know which rules apply and when. Missing these deadlines can result in significant penalties.
The table below provides a clear, at-a-glance summary of the implementation timeline.
| Date | Requirement | Who It Affects |
| From 1 February 2025 | Product Safety Standards: All new e-bikes, e-scooters, batteries, and other e-micromobility devices sold in NSW must comply with the prescribed product safety standards (e.g., AS 15194, UL 2849). | Manufacturers, Importers, Retailers |
| From 19 February 2025 | Information Standard Begins: Suppliers must provide clear and accurate safety information to consumers at the point of sale, covering safe use, charging, storage, and disposal. | Retailers, Suppliers |
| From 1 August 2025 | Information Standard Enforcement: NSW Fair Trading begins enforcing the Information Standard. Penalties of up to $5,500 per breach can be applied for failing to provide the required safety information. | Retailers, Suppliers |
| From 1 February 2026 | Mandatory Certification & Marking Enforcement: NSW Fair Trading begins full enforcement of the Product Safety Standards. All devices must be formally tested, certified, and carry a permanent certification mark. Penalties for selling non-compliant products can reach up to $825,000. | Manufacturers, Importers, Retailers |
Understanding the Standards: A Deep Dive into AS, EN, and UL Certifications
The new laws require compliance with a set of international standards that can look like an alphabet soup of acronyms. Understanding what each standard tests for is key to appreciating the level of safety they provide. Broadly, some standards ensure the product is a safe bicycle, while others focus intensely on making sure the complex electrical system won't fail catastrophically.
AS 15194 & EN 15194: The Foundation for Mechanical and Electrical Safety
Think of these standards as the baseline for ensuring an e-bike is, first and foremost, a safe bicycle. AS 15194 (the Australian standard) is based on EN 15194 (the European standard). They take a holistic approach, testing not just the electrical components but also the mechanical strength and integrity of the bike itself.
These standards ensure that the core bicycle components—like the frame, forks, and brakes—are strong enough to handle the additional weight and forces generated by an electric motor.
On the electrical side, they set requirements for the power management system, mandating that the motor assist cuts out at 25 km/h and that the motor only engages when the rider is pedaling (for pedelec-style bikes).
In essence, compliance with AS/EN 15194 confirms that the product is a well-built and predictable vehicle before you even consider the more advanced battery risks.
UL 2849: The Gold Standard for Complete Electrical System Safety
While AS/EN 15194 provides a good foundation, UL 2849 is widely considered the global "gold standard" for preventing e-bike fires. Developed by Underwriters Laboratories in the US, its primary focus is not on the individual parts, but on the safety of the entire electrical system working together as an integrated unit.
A safe battery and a safe charger can still cause a fire if they don't communicate correctly. UL 2849 addresses this critical risk by testing how the battery, charger, motor, and controller interact under real-world stress conditions. The rigorous testing protocol includes evaluations for:
- Overcharging and short-circuiting
- Extreme temperatures and water exposure
- Mechanical stress, including vibration, impact, and crushing tests
By evaluating the complete system, UL 2849 provides the highest level of assurance against the kind of catastrophic electrical failures that lead to fires and explosions. This is why its inclusion in the NSW regulations is so significant.
UL 2271 and Battery-Specific Certifications
Standards like UL 2271, EN 50604-1, and IEC 62133-2 are different from UL 2849 because they apply only to the battery pack itself, not the whole e-bike system. They are a crucial piece of the puzzle but don't tell the whole story.
These standards test the battery in isolation to ensure its internal components, including the cells and the Battery Management System (BMS), are protected against hazards like internal short circuits, overheating, and physical damage. A bike that is fully UL 2849 certified will almost certainly use a battery that is certified to a standard like UL 2271.
The following table clarifies the distinct roles of these key standards.
| Standard | Scope | What It Tests For |
| UL 2271 / EN 50604-1 | Battery Pack Only | Internal battery safety against overcharging, short circuits, and physical damage in isolation. |
| AS 15194 / EN 15194 | Whole Bike (Holistic) | Mechanical strength (frame, brakes) and basic electrical system safety and performance (e.g., speed cut-off). |
| UL 2849 | Entire Electrical System | Integrated safety of the battery, charger, motor, and controller working together to prevent fire and electric shock. |
What This Means for Riders, Retailers, and the Market
These new laws will have far-reaching consequences, creating a safer but more regulated market. For riders, the financial risk of non-compliance is now extremely high. For retailers, the cost of certification will be a significant barrier, likely weeding out irresponsible sellers. And for e-bike hire businesses, the new rules present a unique and potentially existential challenge.
For Riders: Penalties for Non-Compliance
With increased police enforcement, the decision to ride an illegal e-bike is no longer a low-risk gamble. The potential fines and penalties now far outweigh the money saved on a cheap, non-compliant bike, making legal compliance a financially smart decision, not just a legal one.
NSW Police are actively conducting enforcement blitzes like "Operation Kilowatt," which specifically target illegal e-bikes. The fines are substantial:
- $818 for using an illegal e-bike.
- $410 for not wearing an approved helmet.
- $410 for using a mobile phone while riding.
However, the biggest financial risk comes from an illegal e-bike being classified as an unregistered motor vehicle. This can lead to a combination of fines for being unregistered and uninsured that can easily exceed $1,400, along with the confiscation of the bike. A single traffic stop could cost a rider more than the price of a brand-new, fully certified commuter electric bike.
For Retailers & Manufacturers: The Cost and Responsibility of Certification
The new laws place the primary burden of compliance squarely on the shoulders of manufacturers and retailers. The significant costs and logistical requirements of certification will likely reshape the market, favoring established, safety-conscious brands and driving out "fly-by-night" operators selling low-quality, dangerous products.
The financial penalties for businesses that ignore the new rules are severe, with fines of up to $825,000 for major breaches of the Product Safety Standards. The certification process itself involves direct costs, including a $1,200 application fee to NSW Fair Trading for each model, in addition to the substantial expense of independent laboratory testing.
This investment in safety will be a significant barrier to entry, making it much harder for importers of cheap, un-tested e-bikes to operate in NSW. The likely outcome is a market consolidation, resulting in fewer, but safer and more reliable, choices for consumers.
A Special Case: The Challenge for E-Bike Hire Businesses
A potential unintended consequence of the new legislation poses a serious threat to e-bike rental and share schemes. Because NSW law classifies a "hire" as a "sale," these businesses face the monumental task of ensuring their entire fleet is certified by the deadline, an expense that could force many to shut down.
This legal quirk creates a unique and difficult problem. A retail store can sell off its non-certified stock before the February 2026 enforcement date. However, a hire business is continuously "selling" its bikes with every single rental transaction. This means they cannot legally operate with any non-certified bikes in their fleet past the deadline.
For many operators, the cost of replacing hundreds of bikes simultaneously is financially prohibitive. This aspect of the law puts a disproportionate burden on a key part of the sustainable transport network, and without government support or a special exemption, it could lead to fewer shared e-bike options for the public.
FAQs
Do I need to get my old e-bike certified if I bought it before 2025?
No, the new laws apply to the sale of new e-bikes. You do not need to retroactively certify an old bike. However, it must still comply with all existing Transport for NSW road rules, including the 500W power limit and 25 km/h speed cut-off, to be legal to ride on public roads.
What is the single biggest reason NSW Introduce E-Bike Certification Laws?
The alarming increase in catastrophic lithium-ion battery fires. Data from Fire and Rescue NSW showed a massive spike in fires caused by uncertified and improperly used e-bike batteries, leading to injuries, fatalities, and significant property damage, forcing the government to act.
How can I tell if a new e-bike is legal and safe to buy?
Check that its motor is rated at 500W continuous power or less and that assistance cuts off at 25 km/h. Ask the retailer for proof that the bike and its electrical system are certified to the new standards (like AS 15194 or UL 2849). From February 2026, look for a mandatory permanent certification label on the bike frame.
Are 750W or 1000W e-bikes legal to ride in NSW?
No. Any e-bike with a motor exceeding 500W of continuous power is illegal to ride on public roads, paths, or cycleways in NSW. They are legally considered unregistered motor vehicles and attract heavy fines and potential confiscation.
What happens if I modify my legal e-bike to make it faster?
Modifying your e-bike to exceed the 25 km/h speed limit or 500W power limit makes it illegal. This is not only a safety hazard but will also void any insurance coverage you may have and expose you to significant fines for riding an unregistered motor vehicle.
