Canberrans will have greater access to vehicles that are cheaper to run and better for the environment with a new strategy released today by the ACT Government set to make zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) an affordable option for Canberrans in the years to come.
Transport currently represents the largest source of emissions for the ACT, making up over 60%. Of this, 70% is from private car use. Coupled with rising fuel costs for motorists, this is why we must prioritise our emission reduction efforts in this area.
Accordingly, the ACT will lead the nation and join other jurisdictions around the world in facilitating a smooth transition to zero emissions vehicles over the coming decade.
With most private vehicle manufacturers already signalling their plans to deliver significantly more ZEVs over the next 5-10 years, the ACT Government strategy sets a new and ambitious target of 80-90% of new light vehicles sales being ZEVs by 2030.
The strategy also outlines our plan to start phasing out light internal combustion engine vehicles from 2035.
The Government recognises that affordability of ZEVs remains a critical barrier for many people. To address this, we will expand on what are already the most extensive financial incentives in the country.
We will continue our existing financial incentives to reduce some of the cost barriers to purchasing a zero-emission vehicle. This includes stamp duty waivers, free vehicle registration and no-interest loans of up to $15,000 through the Sustainable Household Scheme (SHS).
In addition, the Government will extend stamp duty waivers for buyers of used electric vehicles and hydrogen vehicles purchased from 1 August 2022, cutting the cost of an average second-hand vehicle by around $1,600.
The Government also recognises that the current fixed registration system is weight based and penalises heavier ZEV models despite their lower emissions. This will be reformed with the goal of incentivising lower emissions.
The summary of other actions in the Strategy include:
- $2,000 grants for installation of EV charging infrastructure for apartment buildings
- expanding the ACT public charging network to at least 180 EV chargers by 2025
- exclusion of new vehicles powered by fossil-fuels in taxi and ride-share fleets by 2030
- changes to the Territory Plan to make new builds EV ready and streamlining EV charging application processes for public land
- continued national advocacy and engagement to expand the national EV charge network and improve vehicle emissions standards
- continued action to ensure that 100% of all newly leased Government vehicles are ZEVs where fit for purpose and explore opportunities to replace ACT Government heavy fleet vehicles with ZEVs
- phasing out light internal combustion engine vehicles by 2035
- aiming for 80-90% of light vehicle sales being zero emissions vehicles by 2030.
The new strategy will ensure the Territory continues as a leader in taking action to address climate change.
The ACT Government remains committed to continuing work with businesses and the community to deliver a zero-emissions transport future for our city.
