EV incentives, rules and standards

States and territories have offered different kinds of support for EVs, such as registration discounts, stamp duty concessions and purchase rebates. Several schemes have been changed or closed, and new ones appear, so we deliberately don't quote amounts here.

Before you buy, check your state or territory's transport or revenue office website for what currently applies to your vehicle and circumstances.

The federal government provides a fringe benefits tax (FBT) exemption for eligible zero and low-emission cars provided through an employer, which is why novated leases on EVs have become popular. Eligibility depends on the vehicle type, its price relative to the luxury car tax threshold and when the arrangement started, and the rules have changed over time (for example, for plug-in hybrids).

Check current guidance from the Australian Taxation Office and get advice specific to your situation before committing.

Australia has introduced a New Vehicle Efficiency Standard, which sets emissions targets that car makers must meet on average across the new vehicles they sell. It's designed to encourage more efficient, low and zero-emission models to be offered locally. It applies to manufacturers and importers, not to individual buyers.

Federal, state and local governments have co-funded public charging, particularly along highways and in regional areas, often in partnership with charging networks. Coverage continues to grow, but it isn't uniform, so plan regional trips with current information from the networks' apps.

The most reliable sources for current information:

• Your state or territory transport and revenue office
• The Australian Taxation Office (FBT and novated leasing)
• The Australian Government's Green Vehicle Guide (vehicle emissions and efficiency)
• Your electricity retailer, for EV-friendly tariffs