To help support the uptake of Electric Vehicles (EVs), many state and territory governments have introduced a range of rebates and incentives. Many have also injected significant funding into public charging infrastructure.
The information below summarises the main EV rebates and incentives currently available in Australia by state/territory, as well as key details on public charging infrastructure investment.
We have also included information on EV road user charges, existing federal and government incentives and EV policies, as well as Labor’s proposed Electric Car.
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What are EV incentives?
Government agencies offer EV incentives in Australia and vary depending on the state and territory. On occasion, the federal government may also provide EV incentives. Electric vehicle incentives in Australia are also subject to change at the agencies’ discretion and may change at any time.
Electric car incentives in Australia aim to support EV uptake across the nation. Australian EV incentives will make purchasing electric cars lighter on your wallet by reducing the upfront cost, providing tax incentives, and reducing on-road costs. EV incentives may also extend to residents and businesses, and EV accessories such as chargers.
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Types of electric car incentives in Australia
The various types of incentives for electric cars in Australia can be broadly categorised into two main, financial incentives and benefits that are typically included in the policies of each state.
Exemption/reduction of EV stamp duty
Every vehicle purchased in Australia, regardless of whether it is new or used, necessitates the payment of stamp duty, which is calculated based on the car’s value. The financial incentive for electric vehicles (EVs) in this category eligible vehicle is not fixed. It varies according to stamp duty exemption and to the value of the car, although there may be a maximum limit imposed.
Rebates/subsidies for EVs
Rebates and subsidies are terms often used interchangeably, but subsidies are limited, and they represent a fixed financial incentive. How does it work? If the eligible vehicle’s purchase value falls within or below the specified limit, you are eligible to receive the entire amount of the incentive. Otherwise, no incentive is provided.
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State and Territory Government EV Rebates and Incentives
Australian Capital Territory
Zero Emissions Vehicles (ZEVs)
These are vehicles that produce zero tailpipe emissions while driving, including battery electric vehicles (EVs) and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). They contribute to cleaner air and a reduced carbon footprint.
Incentives for buying a ZEV in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
The ACT government offers several attractive incentives to encourage ZEV ownership, including:
- No stamp duty on new and used ZEV purchases.
- Free registration for the first two years (until June 30, 2024), followed by discounted ongoing registration based on emissions.
- Up to $15,000 zero-interest loans for eligible households through the Sustainable Household Scheme to help with the purchase of a ZEV and charging infrastructure.
These incentives can significantly reduce the upfront cost of buying a ZEV, making them a more accessible option for Canberrans.
NSW EV rebates
There are currently NO EV rebates in NSW. On January 1, 2024, the stamp duty refund and the rebate for all qualified EV purchases ended.
Queensland EV incentives
Victoria EV incentives
There are currently NO EV rebates in Victoria. New applications for the Zero Emissions Vehicle Subsidy are no longer accepted.
South Australia EV rebate
There are currently NO EV rebates in South Australia.
- Subsidy and registration exemption: The South Australian government provides a $3,000 subsidy and a 3-year registration exemption for eligible new battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles to encourage EV adoption. These incentives apply to vehicles first registered on 28 October 2021.
- A binding contract of sale must have been entered into on or before 31 December 2023.
- Changes from 1 January 2024:
- The subsidy for eligible new battery electric or hydrogen fuel cell vehicles will end.
- However, those with binding contracts for eligible vehicles before 1 January 2024 will still receive the subsidy upon registration.
Western Australia EV rebate
The ZEV Rebate Scheme is a financial incentive to encourage the purchase of zero-emission vehicles as part of the Government’s Clean Energy Car Fund.
Eligibility criteria:
- Vehicle type: Only fully electric vehicles powered by batteries or hydrogen fuel cells qualify. Hybrid vehicles (including plug-in hybrids) emitting greenhouse gases are not eligible.
- License date: The vehicle must be granted a license in Western Australia on or after May 10, 2022.
- Value limit: The maximum dutiable value of the vehicle should be $70,000 or less.
- New vehicles: The rebate applies to brand-new vehicles that have never been registered or licensed in Australia or overseas.
Rebate amount: Successful applicants receive a $3,500 rebate via electronic funds transfer to a nominated Australian bank account.
Exclusions: Used vehicles, heavy vehicles, motorcycles, and non-road-use vehicles are not eligible.
Application process: Apply through the Department of Transport (DoT) after purchasing an eligible vehicle.
Tasmania EV incentives
The Tasmanian government has introduced electric vehicles (EV) incentives as part of its Climate Change Action Plan 2023-25 to promote the adoption of EVs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Electric vehicle rebate
- Eligibility: To qualify for rebates, individuals must purchase either a new battery electric vehicle or a secondhand electric vehicle newly registered in Tasmania.
- Rebate Amount: Eligible buyers can receive a $2,000 rebate following the purchase of an eligible EV. On November 17, 2023, the programme launched and rebates will be given out until all of the funds available are redeemed. There is $750,000 available in total.
Focus vehicles: The scheme emphasises the manufacturing of e-PUVs (public utility vehicles), two-wheelers, and other light electric vehicles.
Export potential: Tasmania aims to become a competitive exporter of e-PUVs and two-wheelers within Southeast Asia.
Additional incentives: The Tasmanian government provides incentives for e-vehicle battery manufacturers and offers discount vouchers for e-PUVs, e-bikes, and three-wheelers.
Northern Territory
Electric Vehicle Charger (Residential and Business) Grants Scheme
The scheme aims to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) by providing financial support for installing EV chargers at residential properties and businesses.
- Eligibility:
- Residential property owners: Owners of residential properties with EVs can apply for grants of up to $1,000 to install chargers.
- Business owners: Businesses can receive grants of up to $2,500 for installing EV chargers.
- Application process: Applications are currently open and will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Review and amendments: After 6 to 12 months, the scheme will be reviewed and may be adjusted to align with the Northern Territory Government’s objectives
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