RAC has welcomed the WA Government’s response to a parliamentary inquiry into the safety, regulation and penalties associated with the use of e-rideables.
RAC Head of Communications Rhys Heron said it was an important step toward making e-rideables safer and more accessible for all Western Australians.
“We are pleased to see the WA Government provide support or in-principle support for a range of important recommendations, including those around improved safety standards, compliance and enforcement, and community education,” Mr Heron said.
“A recommendation to prioritise dedicated e-rideable infrastructure as part of a state-wide strategy in partnership with local governments is strongly supported, should be an immediate priority, and should be broadened to encompass all forms of active transport, including cycling and walking.”
RAC notes the WA Government is engaging with the Australian Government to urge a consistent national approach to areas like importation and modification, device classification, and data collection.
“RAC called for and supports a crackdown on illegal devices, restrictions on who can import and modify devices, and improved data collection and reporting, and we agree this should be a nationally coordinated approach,” Mr Heron said.
Recent RAC surveys have shown that only 29 per cent of drivers and just 17 per cent of pedestrians feel confident interacting with e-rideables.
“E-rideables will play an important role in WA’s future transport mix and we know more West Australians are seeing the benefits. However safety remains a major issue, which is why the recommendations from this inquiry need to be progressed as soon as possible,” Mr Heron said.
RAC looks forward to engaging with the WA Government on the detailed approach and timeframe for recommendations to be implemented.
Read RAC’s submission to the inquiry here: RAC submission - e-Rideables inquiry.
ENDS
Media contact: RAC Media, 9436 4889 or media@rac.com.au
