From Tuesday, children under 13 can ride their bikes on footpaths and can be accompanied by a person aged between 13 and 17.

Adults with a young child in a seat attached to their bicycle, or with a child pedalling on a bike attachment, can also cycle on footpaths.

The changes come after extensive consultation with VicRoads, pedestrian and cycling organisations, councils and community members.

What hasn't changed is the law for adults and young people aged over 13 and above, who cannot ride on the footpaths unless accompanying a child under 13.

In addition, adults with trailers attached to their bicycle, and cargo bikes with children in them, are not permitted on the footpath.

A VicRoads spokesperson said when cycling on footpaths, bike riders must give way to pedestrians.

"Slow down and ring your bell or call out when approaching pedestrians, to let them know that a bicycle is nearby," the spokesperson said.

"When a footpath bicycle rider comes to a road, they must dismount and walk across to the other side, unless a sign or bike lantern indicates otherwise.

"Drivers are reminded that when they are exiting or entering driveways they must give way to footpath users before doing so."

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