Queensland’s E-Bike Subsidy
“This subsidy will promote the many benefits of e-mobility, including reduced emissions, decreased congestion, lower parking demand, and, importantly, easing cost-of-living pressures. ”
Better Streets welcomes the Queensland Government’s recent introduction of the E-Mobility Rebate Scheme. The initiative offers a $500 rebate for eligible e-bikes and $200 for eligible e-scooters, with total funding capped at $1 million. Although this fund is expected to be quickly exhausted, it represents a significant policy breakthrough, and we are hopeful that the scheme will be expanded in the future.
Previously, the Queensland Government operated the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Rebate Scheme from July 2022 to early September 2024, with a total fund of $45 million. This initiative helped nearly 37,000 households and businesses purchase electric vehicles. Advocates had long called for similar support for e-mobility, and we extend our gratitude to Bicycle Queensland, We Ride, Space 4 Cycling, and local BUGs and advocates across the state for their tireless efforts.
Inner-city retailers Everybody Ebikes and Lug-and-Carrie both offered additional incentives this week, with discounts of up to $500 - matching the government rebate. At their Lutwyche location, Everybody Ebikes reported a noticeable surge in e-bike enquiries and sales, attracting buyers from across South East Queensland. Their customers ranged from school-aged riders to active seniors, purchasing for both commuting and recreation. Interestingly, no trike riders had taken up the offer at the time of publication, suggesting that older riders may be less responsive to these types of incentives.
We value the recognition of e-mobility as a practical and sustainable transport choice for Queenslanders. This subsidy will promote the many benefits of e-mobility, including reduced emissions, decreased congestion, lower parking demand, and, importantly, easing cost-of-living pressures. Additional advantages of e-mobility include increased physical activity and a rise in female participation in cycling.
Queensland now joins other Australian governments, such as Tasmania and several local governments in Adelaide, South Australia, that have implemented or are currently offering subsidies for e-mobility purchases.
We Ride e bike subsidy report: https://www.weride.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/WeRide_e-Bike_Subsidy_Report_FINAL-lores.pdf
Bicycle Queensland advocacy: https://bq.org.au/news/advocating-for-the-extension-of-the-e-vehicle-rebate-to-e-bikes/
Link to access the scheme: https://www.qrida.qld.gov.au/program/e-mobility-rebate-scheme
