The Federal Government has begun consultation for Australia’s first National Electric Vehicle Strategy, intended to increase both the affordability and supply of electric vehicle (EV) technologies.
EVs make up just two per cent of Australia’s new vehicle sales, far behind the global trends of similarly-developed countries.
The government will now begin consultation with State Governments, industry, unions, and consumers to inform the strategies development.
The consultation paper is seeking views on issues including:
- Making EVs more affordable, encouraging uptake and choice
- Increasing charging infrastructure
- Reducing road transport emissions
- Introducing fuel efficiency standards
- Saving Australians money on fuel
- Increasing local manufacturing
Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, said the new policy would advance the so-called ‘EV revolution’.
“At the heart of the national strategy will be a plan to improve affordability and choice for consumers by growing the Australian EV market,” Mr Bowen said.
“This is a genuine consultation to inform the right policy settings so we can see more affordable electric vehicles on our roads.
“Right now, Australians miss out on a wider choice of affordable EVs because our policy settings are outdated. It’s time for Australians to get a fair go when they’re deciding on their next car.”
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said the consultation will ensure people are heard to make EVs more accessible to Australians.
“Part of the consultation is about the Government seeking stakeholder views on vehicle fuel efficiency standards, including their application, design and implementation,” Ms King said.
“Our cars are less fuel efficient on average than Europe and the US. Now is the time for Australia to join the rest of the world and electrify our road transport.
“That is why our Government is taking this critical step to ensure Australian households and businesses reap the benefits of transport that is fit for the 21st century – being both cheaper to run and lower emitting.”
The National Electric Vehicle Strategy: Consultation Paper is available here. Submissions will be accepted from now until 31 October 2022.
