Yarra City Council Terminates Lime E-Bike Trial

The Yarra City Council voted on July 14, 2026, to terminate a nearly six-year e-bike trial with Lime. Despite Lime being the only company to apply for the permanent contract tender, the council decided to end the scheme entirely rather than grant the contract.

Mayor Stephen Jolly and council officials cited significant operational failures, including Lime's inability to penalize riders for riding drunk, using footpaths, or dumping bikes. The council also noted non-compliance regarding financial reporting, data security, and general operations. Mayor Jolly criticized the operator for generating approximately $2.5 million from local trips since 2020 without sharing any of that revenue with the city.

While the organization Streets Alive Yarra and some residents advocated for the environmental benefits of the bikes and suggested adding bike corrals, Councillor Evangeline Aston dismissed the environmental impact of the current usage levels. Lime expressed disappointment, characterizing the decision as an unnecessary disruption to the broader Melbourne e-bike network.