The QLD Government is challenging the theory that electric vehicle incentives are targeted at the rich people that can already afford them by means testing their $6,000 rebate.
The extra financial assistance is part of an ongoing scheme to make electric vehicles more affordable for Queenslanders. The update to the existing scheme will see new eligibility requirements and an increased rebate available to Queenslanders under the Zero Emission Vehicle Rebate Scheme, which could see eligible households access a $6,000 rebate when purchasing a new EV.
The scheme was initially launched on 1 July 2022, but the enhanced measures will ensure more Queenslanders and fleets are able to access an even greater range of EVs at better prices than ever before.
Changes include:
- An increase to the rebate from $3000 to $6000 for eligible households earning up to a total gross household income of $180,000 per year.
- Applicants who have already applied and received a $3000 rebate under the earlier scheme, and who are under the total gross income threshold, are eligible for reassessment and additional payment of $3000 rebate (totalling $6000 per eligible application).
- An increase to the eligibility threshold for vehicles, which will now exclude dealer delivery fees from determining ‘dutiable value’ from $58,000 to $68,000 (inc. GST).
When the changes were announced, the Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen, Mick de Brenni said, “We’re seeing the prices of EVs fluctuate on the back of rising materials costs and inflation left by the Morrison Government, so we’ve increased the eligible price cap to $68,000, and increased the rebate amount from $3000 to $6000 for eligible households.”
“This is about making EVs more affordable and more accessible to all Queenslanders to slash emissions and act on climate change with cleaner technology.
“We want more zero emission vehicles on Queensland roads with Queensland families to have access to cheaper and cleaner vehicles. We are committed to reducing the cost-of-living pressures of high petrol prices.
“I was speaking to someone earlier this week who powers their EV with solar from their home. It only cost them $14.50 to drive almost 4,000 kilometres. Comparably, the cost of driving a petrol-powered car would be at least 30 times this.
“We also want to see fleets transition to further drive down emissions. That’s why Queensland businesses can apply for up to five rebates per financial year, providing an opportunity for local businesses to make the switch to electric fleets.
“This is an opportunity for Queensland businesses to step up and contribute to emissions reduction through transitioning their fleet operations. The scheme has already proven popular, and we anticipate this will increase further with the higher threshold and rebate amount.”
The initial $3,000 rebate has been approved for 1,135 Queenslanders since it was announced in 2022. Individual Queenslanders or households who earn over the $180,000 threshold imposed with the new scheme will still be eligible to claim a $3,000 rebate if all other eligibility requirements are met.
Currently at least 23 EV models available for purchase under $68,000. It’s anticipated 7 more will be added at this price point by the end of the year.
The following entities are not eligible to receive a ZEV Rebate:
- Licenced Motor Vehicle Dealers
- Government entities (including but not limited to local councils)
- Fleet management organisations.
