EN 15194 is the European standard for electrically power-assisted cycles (EPACs). It is quickly becoming the test for whether an e-bike is road legal in Australia.
What EN 15194 covers
- The motor only assists while you pedal, and stops assisting at 25 km/h.
- 250 W maximum continuous rated power.
- A throttle or walk-assist only up to 6 km/h.
- Electrical, mechanical and battery-safety testing of the bike as a whole.
How to tell if a bike meets it
Look for an EN 15194 label or sticker on the frame (often near the bottom bracket or on the seat tube), or a statement in the manual and on the receipt. Reputable brands list it on their spec sheets. On EbikeMate you can filter e-bikes by compliance label.
Where it is required
| Where | What applies |
|---|---|
| Queensland | From 1 March 2027, e-bikes ridden in public need an EN 15194 label or a Legacy EPAC label from an approved verifier |
| NSW | Adopted in 2026; from 1 March 2029 only EN 15194 e-bikes are road legal |
| WA | A 250 W pedalec must comply with EN 15194 |
| NT | An EPAC means EN 15194, 250 W and 25 km/h |
| Victoria | Transport Victoria advises looking for EN 15194 compliance |
| SA | Not yet referenced; the 2026 review consulted on adopting it |
| National | Transport ministers agreed in November 2025 to reinstate EN 15194 for imports; the ACCC is developing a national safety standard |
The national picture
At their 21 November 2025 meeting, infrastructure and transport ministers agreed the Commonwealth would reinstate EN 15194 to support importers. On 6 August 2026 the federal government directed the ACCC to develop a nationally consistent safety standard for e-bikes and other e-micromobility devices under Australian Consumer Law, to “draw a firm line” against high-powered, high-speed devices. No start date has been set.
What it means if you’re buying
- Buy EN 15194 now and your bike should stay legal everywhere as the rules tighten.
- Already own an older bike? In Queensland you may be able to get a Legacy EPAC label from an approved verifier — see Queensland e-bike laws.
- Selling? Say whether the bike has a label — buyers filter for it.
Is my e-bike legal? Free 1-minute check →
Common questions
What is EN 15194?
The European standard for electrically power-assisted cycles: pedal assistance only, stopping at 25 km/h, 250 W continuous power, throttle only to 6 km/h, plus electrical and battery safety testing.
Do I need an EN 15194 label in Queensland?
From 1 March 2027, yes — or a Legacy EPAC label from an approved verifier — to ride an e-bike in public.
Is EN 15194 required in NSW?
NSW adopted it in 2026. From 1 March 2029 only e-bikes meeting EN 15194 will be road legal in NSW.
Official sources
- Communique — Infrastructure and Transport Ministers’ Meeting, 21 November 2025
- Stronger product safety standards for e-bikes — Treasury ministers (6 Aug 2026)
- Importer’s guide to electric bikes — Department of Infrastructure
- E-Bike rules in Queensland — Queensland Government
- E-Bike FAQs — NSW Government
- Bicycle riders — WA Road Safety Commission
- Electric bikes — Transport Victoria
This guide explains things in general terms. It is not legal advice. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.