An e-scooter share scheme is set to be introduced in Canberra as expressions of interest have been invited as part of a process for two e-scooter to be approved as operators.
Announced by the Minister for Roads and Active Travel, Chris Steel, policy and guidelines have been developed, setting out expectations for the operation of a high quality e-scooter scheme.
“E-scooters offer a new way of taking short, ‘first mile/last mile’ trips across the city, including connecting to and from public transport,” Mr Steel said.
“This isn’t just a new form of mobility, it will see the start of a brand new industry in the ACT, creating jobs in the management and maintenance of shared e-scooters,” he said.
“Two e-scooter operators will be selected to be issued permits under the Public Unleased Land Act 2013 for up to 750 devices each.”
Mr Steel said that in addition to the devices being provided in the inner city areas, e-scooters must also be available in at least one other region to test operations in another part of Canberra.
“Operators will be expected to manage their e-scooters to ensure that they do not clutter our streetscapes and urban areas, that their fleets are regularly rebalanced, and that they do not block people walking or moving through public spaces,” he said.
He said it was anticipated that e-scooters would be available to hire as early as August.
