ABC star calls for new laws after e-bike accident
An incident on a public pathway has fueled calls for stronger laws covering electric bicycles and scooters.
An accident involving a former ABC announcer has again ignited debate about the use of e-scooters and e-bikes on public pathways.
Former ABC Classic FM presenter, Margaret Throsby, 84, suffered a fractured hip and head injuries after being struck by an e-bike on a shared path in the Illawarra region of New South Wales.
The e-bike’s riders, two teenage boys, apologised to Ms Throsby and remained with her until emergency services arrived.
The retired broadcaster underwent surgery and spent several days in hospital after the incident on 25 September.
Her daughter, author and musician, Holly Throsby, told ABC News, “It was one of those massive fat bikes that kind of looked like a motorcycle, so it’s very heavy and then you’ve got two boys on it.
“It was a really high impact, so she’s broken her hip and thumb, and she had some really big haematomas on her head. It was a really sickening scene.”
Holly Throsby called for better regulation of e-bikes, particularly those being used by children.
She warned that further serious incidents could occur without changes to legislation and stronger enforcement of existing rules.
Margaret Throsby later told A Current Affair that she had been “overwhelmed” by people sharing their concerns with her about e-bike accidents in their neighbourhoods.
“Kids are riding around on what are effectively electric motorbikes that can reach 50km/h, without a licence and often without a helmet, on footpaths and shared pedestrian/bike paths," she said.
E-bike safety advocate Ben Horwood argued that young riders need education about safe riding and road rules.
The accident will heighten concerns among older pedestrians, particularly those with impaired hearing, vision, or balance.
E-bikes and e-scooters can approach quickly and quietly, giving pedestrians little opportunity to move out of the way. A collision involving a heavy device can have serious consequences for an older person.
When the Queensland Government signalled tougher e-mobility laws in April 2026, a Connect reader poll found strong support for such action.
Of 854 respondents, 524, or 61%, supported stricter laws governing e-scooters and e-bikes.
A further 259 respondents, or 30%, supported stricter laws but wanted legal e-bikes treated in the same way as ordinary bicycles, with sensible rules applied.
Just 67 respondents, or 8%, opposed stronger laws, while four were unsure.
Responses to e-scooters and e-bikes differ between jurisdictions, reflecting attempts to balance mobility with the safety of pedestrians, riders, and motorists.
Approaches may include age restrictions, speed controls, enforcement measures, and rules governing where different devices can be used.
Whatever rules apply, riders have a responsibility to use shared spaces carefully. Transport for NSW reiterated after the collision that riders on shared paths must give way to pedestrians.
Safe behaviour includes travelling at a speed appropriate to the surroundings, slowing down when approaching pedestrians, leaving sufficient room when passing, and providing an audible warning early enough to avoid startling people. Riders should also comply with helmet, passenger, and device requirements in their jurisdiction.
At the same time, it is important not to portray all e-bike riders as a danger. Some seniors rely on these devices for mobility.
Pedal assistance can make hills and longer journeys manageable, helping older people remain active and independent. E-bikes can provide accessible exercise and support cardiovascular fitness, joint mobility, and mental wellbeing.
Poorly targeted restrictions could therefore disadvantage older Australians who ride legal e-bikes carefully.
The challenge is to distinguish responsible use of pedal-assisted bicycles from dangerous behaviour involving excessive speed, illegal modifications, unsuitable devices, or a disregard for pedestrians.
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