Rules for e-bikes on trains, trams, buses and ferries differ a lot between states — and two states now ban converted e-bikes on trains. Here is a quick comparison, then the details. Check with the operator before you travel.
| State | Trains | Buses | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | Factory e-bikes yes; converted e-bikes banned | No bikes | Converted bike ban since 1 Nov 2025; $400–$1,100 penalties |
| VIC | Factory e-bikes yes; converted banned | Folding only | Switched off; no charging on board |
| SA | Yes (not modified e-bikes) | No | Peak fare per bike on weekdays |
| WA | Off-peak or non-peak direction | Folded and bagged only | Ferries take bikes at all times |
| TAS | — | No e-bikes on Metro buses | |
| ACT | Light rail racks | Front racks on most buses | No e-bikes with fixed delivery boxes on light rail |
| NT | — | Only if it fits the luggage rack or floor |
New South Wales
Since 1 November 2025, converted e-bikes (pedal bikes fitted with a motor kit) and their batteries — even detached — are banned on Sydney Trains, NSW TrainLink and Metro and in fare-paid areas, with penalty notices of $400 to $1,100. Factory-built and shared e-bikes are not affected. Bikes travel free on Metro, trains and Sydney Ferries when there is room; regional TrainLink services need booking. No bikes on buses. NSW e-bike laws.
Victoria
Factory-built e-bikes are allowed on metro trains, switched off and not charged on board. V/Line takes bikes free at the conductor’s discretion, with check-in on some long-distance lines. Trams and buses take folding bikes only. Converted e-bikes are banned from metro and regional trains. Victoria e-bike laws.
South Australia
Adelaide Metro takes e-bikes on trains only — not buses or trams — and not modified e-bikes. A peak concession fare per bike applies on weekdays before 9 am and 3–6 pm. SA e-bike laws.
Western Australia
Transperth treats e-bikes like bicycles: trains off-peak, or in the non-peak direction during peaks; buses only if folded and bagged; ferries at all times. No bikes into Perth, Perth Underground or Elizabeth Quay stations at peak times. WA e-bike laws.
Tasmania
Metro Tasmania does not allow e-bikes on its buses. Tasmania e-bike laws.
ACT
Most Canberra buses have front racks for two bikes, and e-bikes can go in the light rail racks within size and weight limits. ACT e-bike laws.
Northern Territory
Bikes go on buses only if they fit in the luggage rack or on the floor without blocking aisles. NT e-bike laws.
Queensland
Check Translink’s current conditions before you travel with an e-bike. For Queensland’s riding rules see Queensland e-bike laws.
Common questions
Can I take an e-bike on a Sydney train?
A factory-built e-bike, yes, when there is room. Converted e-bikes and their batteries are banned on Sydney Trains, NSW TrainLink and Metro since 1 November 2025.
Can I take an e-bike on a Melbourne train?
Yes, a factory-built e-bike, switched off. Converted e-bikes are banned on metropolitan and regional trains.
Which buses take e-bikes in Australia?
Canberra buses have front racks on most services. Most other cities don’t allow full-size bikes on buses; some allow folded and bagged bikes.
Sources
- Travelling with bikes — Transport for NSW
- E-bike ban on NSW trains and Metro — Transport for NSW (31 Oct 2025)
- Bicycles, e-bikes and e-scooters on public transport — Transport Victoria
- Taking items on board — Adelaide Metro
- Taking items on board — Transperth
- Conditions of travel — Metro Tasmania
- Cycling — Transport Canberra
- Cyclists — CMET (Canberra light rail)
- Rules for catching a public bus — NT Government
This guide explains things in general terms. It is not legal advice. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.