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A GOLD Coast businessman has successfully lobbied the Australian Capital Territory Government to change legislation to allow the use of segways on public footpaths and bikeways in the ACT.
Brett Walton, director of Segway Sales Australia, has been working with the ACT Government for several years to roll out the new legislation. The Australian Capital Territory follows Queensland's lead with the legislative change.
Walton, who is based at Burleigh Heads, says the new laws mean locals could use the green-powered alternative to avoid on-road congestion during peak hours and he's also reporting a strong increase in sales from security services and local councils.
"For most Australians, a typical working day involves long periods of time spent waiting in our vehicles while getting from A to B," says Walton.
"Research shows that the average Australian is spending more time every year commuting to work and the majority are only travelling short distances. Furthermore, most cars on the roads are occupied by solo drivers meaning less room on the roads and greater fuel emissions."
Walton says segway users would be subject to the same road rules as pedestrians under the current road transport legislation. And just like cyclists, anyone using a segway will be legally required to wear an approved bicycle helmet.
"We want segways to be equally safe as they are convenient and that's why users must be at least 12 years old and the machines will be speed-limited to 12km/h. It is also required that lights and reflectors are used at night and in bad weather," he says.
Walton has been working with various levels of government for many years regarding the legislative and regulatory changes to support the safe use of segways on roads and road-related areas.
Segways are already prominent in the ACT, being used for tourism tours and within the security and safety industry.
"Our products are being used by the Queensland and Northern Territory Police as they are so effective in improving response times, enhancing staff productivity and reducing fatigue. Feedback from the police and security services has been overwhelmingly positive."
Business News Australia
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