Media Statement – Monday 30 September 30, 2024

The Queensland Government has this morning announced they are doubling their investment in the e-Mobility Rebate Scheme due to the extraordinary response.

Surpassing all expectations, an extra million dollars will be added, with the Government stating it received over 860 applications for e-bike and e-scooter incentives in just the first three days of the scheme opening.

WeRide applauded the scheme’s announcement just one week ago and says the uptake comes as no surprise how well e-bikes fit Queenslander’s everyday local travel needs.

WeRide’s Peter Bourke was quick to point out the benefits.

“Many of the trips Queenslanders, and all Australians, do every day are short local trips that are quick and easy by bike, half less than 5km.

“The addition of electric assist is a game changer and the incredible response by the Queensland public to the incentive scheme mirrors the response to similar schemes across the globe.

“The modelling we presented to the Government earlier this year shows clearly that for every dollar they invest in e-bike incentives, the return is an incredible seven dollars.

“Boosting e-bike use saves families money, it reduces traffic on roads and it’s a healthy, fun way to get to school, work or to the local shops,” Peter Bourke said.

“Congratulations to the Queensland Government on its fast response to the incredible success of their scheme.

“Let’s hope other state and territory governments see just what a great idea this is and follow the lead of Queensland and others!”

Queensland’s incentive scheme joins the Tasmanian Government scheme launched earlier in 2024 and schemes established by the City of Adelaide and the City of Holdfast Bay in South Australia and Merri-bek Council in Melbourne.

Further news and information on e-bike modelling commissioned by WeRide and interviews with experts below:

Report ‘e-bike subsidy for Australians’ commissioned from the Institute for Sensible Transport.