Family bike rides can be one of the most enjoyable and healthy ways to spend quality time together. However, knowing the rules around where you can ride is essential for both safety and compliance with the law. A common question for families in Australia is whether it's legal to ride bikes on footpaths, especially when young children are involved.
Here's a clear breakdown of the laws regarding riding on footpaths across all Australian states and territories.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
In the ACT, cycling on footpaths is permitted for all ages. This is particularly beneficial for families with young children, providing a safe space away from road traffic.
Key points:
- Cyclists must keep left.
- Cyclists must give way to pedestrians.
- Cyclists must ride in a safe and considerate manner.
Source: Transport Canberra and City Services
New South Wales (NSW)
In NSW, children under 16 and adults supervising a child under 16 can legally ride on footpaths. However, adults riding alone without supervising children must ride on roads or designated shared bike paths, and keep left when doing so.
Source: Transport for NSW
Victoria (VIC)
Victoria has similar rules to NSW: only children under 13 and adults supervising these children can legally ride bikes on footpaths. All other riders must use roads or bike paths.
Key points:
- Adults supervising a child under 13 may ride on footpaths.
- Cyclists must give way to pedestrians.
Source: VicRoads
Queensland (QLD)
Queensland is more flexible, allowing cyclists of all ages to ride on footpaths unless otherwise signed with a 'No Bicycle' sign.
Key points:
- Riders must keep left and give way to pedestrians.
Source: Queensland Government Transport
South Australia (SA)
In South Australia, cyclists of any age can legally ride on footpaths. The rules here focus heavily on safety and consideration for pedestrians.
Key points:
- Cyclists must keep left unless it is impractical to do so.
- Cyclists must give way to pedestrians.
- Cyclists must ride safely and use a bell to warn others when approaching if it is necessary to avert danger.
Source: South Australian Government
Western Australia (WA)
Western Australia allows cyclists of all ages to use footpaths unless signs explicitly prohibit it. This is advantageous for family outings, particularly with younger riders.
Key points:
- Cyclists must ride single file and give way to pedestrians.
- Interestingly, drivers must give way to cyclists at driveways, but it's advisable for cyclists to slow down to ensure they are seen.
- Cyclists entering a pedestrian crossing from a connected path may now ride straight across (without dismounting), provided they keep to under 10 km/h and give way to all pedestrians.
- Cyclists must ride safely and use a bell to warn others when approaching if it necessary to avert danger.
Source: WA Road Safety Commission
Tasmania (TAS)
Tasmanian laws allow cyclists of any age to ride on footpaths unless signage indicates otherwise. This flexibility supports family cycling trips, ensuring children are safe away from road traffic.
Key points:
- Cyclists must keep to the left and give way to pedestrians.
Source: Transport Tasmania
Northern Territory (NT)
In the Northern Territory, cyclists of all ages can legally ride on footpaths, unless specific signs prohibit it. This is helpful for parents teaching young children to ride.
Key points:
- Cyclists must keep left and give way to pedestrians.
- Cyclists may ride at walking pace across a road on a children's crossing or pedestrian crossing.
- Cyclists must use a bell to warn others when approaching if it necessary to avert danger.
Source: Northern Territory Government
General Guidelines for Families
No matter your location in Australia, a few universal rules and considerations can help ensure your family's safety and compliance with local laws:
- Always wear helmets – it's compulsory in all states and territories.
- Use bike bells – to alert pedestrians or other footpath users of your approach.
- Ride cautiously and courteously – always give pedestrians the right of way.
- Stay left on the footpath – unless overtaking or avoiding hazards.
- Check local signage – some areas may restrict cycling on footpaths.
Why Choosing the Right Bike Matters
Ensuring your child has a suitable, lightweight bike can make riding safer and more enjoyable. Brands like base bikes emphasize safety, ease of handling, and lightweight designs that help kids learn faster and ride confidently. A lighter bike helps children maneuver easily, especially when sharing footpaths with pedestrians. It can also prevent fatigue and make longer rides more enjoyable, keeping kids enthusiastic about cycling.
Conclusion
While footpath cycling laws in Australia vary by state, all prioritize pedestrian safety and rider caution. For families, understanding these regulations ensures your outings remain enjoyable and incident-free. By choosing an appropriate, high-quality bike—such as those offered by base bikes—you can ensure that your children not only enjoy their rides but also build confidence, independence, and lifelong cycling skills.
Note, we have taken care in researching this article, however be sure to check local laws yourself. This article should not be considered legal advice and you should do your own research.