New Lithium-Ion Battery Standards in Effect in NSW

The NSW Government have implemented two major safety initiatives for lithium-ion powered e-micromobility devices, including e-bikes and e-scooters.

These steps position NSW as the leading jurisdiction in Australia for regulating the use of these products, which have increasingly been linked to fires caused by poor quality components or improper use. 

These initiatives are a response to the rising number of fires linked to e-micromobility devices, which have caused 193 fires between 2022 and 2025, and 3 fatalities in just 12 months.  

Stage 1 of the E-micromobility Safety Standards, in effect from 1 February 2025, mandates that e-micromobility devices, batteries, and chargers sold in NSW must comply with specific safety requirements, aiming to reduce fire risks. Retailers and manufacturers must adhere to these regulations, with NSW Fair Trading conducting educational compliance activities throughout 2025.

Additional standards covering mandatory testing and certification, as well as mandatory labelling will be enforced in August 2025 and February 2026 respectively, with penalties for non-compliance reaching up to $825,000. 

E-micromobility Information Standard, in effect from 19 February 2025, requires that safety, fire procedures, product storage, and electrical safety information be provided to consumers at the point of sale. Retailers will be given six months to adjust to the new requirements, after which they could face fines of up to $5,500 for non-compliance. 

Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading, Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“E-micromobility products will keep growing in popularity, but as they become more widespread, we need to do more to make sure they are safe. That’s why we’ve moved quickly to introduce this raft of regulatory changes, which have been put in place to protect lives and property from the devastating damage they can cause if the products are unsafe or used incorrectly.” 

The new standards aim to enhance the safety and quality of these devices and protect consumers, property, and lives. 

NSW is now leading efforts to establish a national approach to regulating these devices, and the state government plans to share its experiences with other jurisdictions to develop uniform regulations across Australia.