A survey of more than 1900 people has found most Canberrans don't want the Beam and Neuron trial to end, with two-thirds supporting an expansion to the outer suburbs.
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As part of ACT Transport's six-month review of the scheme, the survey found a majority of Canberrans had adopted the new transport option with zeal not seen since the e-bike library.
Canberrans aged 16-34 were most likely to use the scooters, followed by those aged 35-54.
Of the over-55s, just seven per cent had reportedly had a ride since the scooters were introduced in September.
Canberrans were most likely to jump on an e-scooter for fun, while commuting to work, going to the shops and getting to public transport were also cited as reasons.
ACT Transport Minister Chris Steel said those wanting an expansion outside the current limitations would like to see scooters rolled out to where they live.
"This highlights a desire for more diverse, flexible and local transport options," Mr Steel said.
The results were:
- Canberrans aged 16 to 34 are most likely to use scheme (48 per cent) compared with people aged 35 to 54 (24 per cent) and people aged 55 or over (7 per cent).
- 36 per cent of people made a purchase at a shop or hospitality venue shortly before the trip and 52 per cent of people made a purchase shortly after the trip.
- 95 per cent of people found it easy to find an e-scooter.
- Most people use the scooters occasionally with only 6 per cent of people reporting using them a few times a week, 4 per cent using them weekly and 24 per cent using them a few times a month.
- 18 per cent of people report they might consider getting an e-scooter in the next 12 months, while 27 per cent of people might consider getting an e-bike.
Despite broad support, Mr Steel said a significant proportion of Canberrans had concerns about the behaviour of e-scooter users.
In response, the ACT government has launched an e-scooter safety campaign focusing on road rules and etiquette.
Released through a variety of digital channels, the series of traffic safety videos particularly target young Canberrans who represent the biggest e-scooter consumers.
The above results, in addition to those from a second survey of 1421 mostly e-scooter users, will be used to provide insights for a government commissioned review into the first six months of the shared e-scooter scheme.
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Results from the six month review are expected to be publicly released by July.
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Alex Crowe
Alex covers science and environment issues, with a focus on local Canberra stories. alex.crowe@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Alex covers science and environment issues, with a focus on local Canberra stories. alex.crowe@austcommunitymedia.com.au
