Which E-Bikes Are Included In Sydney’s New Ban?

On September 22, 2025, the NSW Government banned converted e-bikes on the NSW rail network to reduce fire risk.

This ban will not affect all parts of the public transportation network including train station concourses, lifts, escalators or bike storage facilities outside of fare gates, as well as community access gates.

​“E-bikes are becoming more popular and playing an increasing role in our transport network. Our aim is to allow people to enjoy their advantages whilst keeping everyone safe,” said Minister of Transport NSW, John Graham.​

Transport for NSW says the decision was driven by months of feedback from people on the front line—riders and delivery workers, unions, emergency services, shared-scheme operators, and everyday passengers. 

A community consultation process drew roughly 3,000 submissions, alongside a ministerial reference group of key stakeholders. Officials say the outcome aims to strike a balance between safety, reliability, and practicality, reflecting compromises across competing views rather than a single voice.

What type of e-bikes are included in the ban?

As the NSW Government states, converted e-bikes are what mainly concern them as a fire hazard so it’s not all types of e-bikes. “Converted e-bikes” are regular pedal bikes with a motor and battery added later. Because these are often DIY add-ons, they’re more likely to have electrical problems or fires—especially with poor wiring, second-hand batteries, or parts that don’t properly match.

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How much is the fine?

E-bike riders with added motors will need to pay fines of $400 with a maximum penalty of 10 penalty units ($1,110). NSW Transport is actively asking passengers not to bring any converted e-bikes on services, such as, all Sydney trains, NSW Trainlink, and Metro line. This ban also included similar existing offenses like carrying a petrol-powered device.

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When is it going into effect?

The ban will be in effect from November 1. With Christmas just around the corner, the Minister of Transport NSW stressed the “timely reminder ahead of Christmas – if you’re thinking of getting an e-bike, take a look at the Fair Trading website and look for a quality bike, to make sure you’re investing in safety.” 

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Why are converted e-bikes banned?

Many reported fires regarding lithium-ion batteries in e-bikes have raised safety concerns but NSW Transport started closely monitoring these offences after two recent e-bike fires at Liverpool Station in August, Blacktown Station in April (which involved a converted e-bike), and on a Melbourne suburban train in March. 

Not just stations- this year, Fire and Rescue NSW reported 77 e-micromobility-related lithium-ion battery fires.

To further avoid these fire safety risks, a joint letter from NSW and Victorian Transport Ministers have joined forces asking for Commonwealth Government support in strengthening Australia’s approach to e-devices safety, ensuring all devices imported, sold and used in Australia are safe and fit for purpose. 

Graham says these laws are needed to create balance. 

“The overwhelming message from the consultation was that banning all e-bikes from trains would go too far,” he said. “Taking out the highest risk e-bikes is a sensible and balanced step, but we will watch this space very closely and take further action if necessary.”