CHILDREN'S SCOOTERS

In reply to the Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK (13 November 2008).

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for State/Local Government Relations, Minister for the Status of Women, Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Government Enterprises, Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Energy): I am advised that:

1. OCBA has not received any complaints from consumers about the safety of electric scooters. It has been reported in the media that the scooters can be modified to increase the speed.

Many products can be potentially dangerous if not used correctly and sensibly. Parental Supervision is important to make sure that children are not using these items in a dangerous manner.

2. The Trade Standards Act 1979, that is administered by OCBA, provides for the regulation of the safety and quality of goods and services, but does not extend to how products may be used or misused.

Transport SA regulates the Road Traffic (Road Rules-Ancillary and Miscellaneous Provisions) Regulations 1999.

Advice received from the Vehicle Services Section of Transport SA indicates that the 'Razor' brand range of electric scooters would not be able to be ridden on any public road, whether in its original form or any potentially modified form. Their use would be restricted to private property only.