The Victorian Government has announced that it will introduce a $3,000 subsidy for new Zero Emissions Vehicles (ZEV) as a part of the state’s plan to meet its target of net zero emissions by 2050, while also supporting new jobs.
An unprecedented $100 million package will make ZEVs more affordable, build charging infrastructure and achieve more ZEVs in government and commercial fleets.
The subsidy will be available for more than 20,000 new ZEV purchases from Sunday, 2 May 2021. Subsidies will be available in stages, with an initial 4,000 spots. Further stages will be announced as the program progresses.
The Victorian Government is also introducing a 2030 target that will see half of all new car sales be ZEVs. An expert advisory panel will be established to advise the Government on policies, programs and infrastructure required to ensure the target is met by 2030.
To meet the expected increase of ZEVs on roads and give drivers confidence they will have a charging station when they need, the Victorian Government will invest $19 million to roll out more charging infrastructure on major highways, at key tourist attractions, and locations across Melbourne and regional Victoria.
This will more than triple government-supported fast-charging sites across Victoria, adding at least 50 charging points to the existing network of 24 sites.
Not only will this investment encourage the uptake of ZEVs, it’s expected to support new jobs for Victorian workers installing charging stations across Victoria, including electricians and technicians.
The Government will also invest $10 million to add ZEVs to the Government fleet, starting with 400 vehicles in the next two years. A $5 million innovation fund will work to support the uptake of ZEVs in the commercial sector.
The $100 million package has been made possible by a zero and low-emissions road user charge that will be introduced at a fraction of the motor vehicle-related taxes and charges other vehicle owners pay, and ensures all road users contribute to the upkeep of roads.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Lily D’Ambrosio, said, “Our transport sector is a significant contributor to our emissions. This package of reforms makes cars the vehicle for change, by getting more zero emissions vehicles on our roads.”
Minister for Public Transport, Ben Carroll, said, “Electric and zero-emissions vehicles are the future of transport – and we’re making sure more Victorians can buy a clean, sustainable car as we prepare for this transport revolution.”
