Queensland has set ambitious targets for electric vehicle (EV) adoption, with a 10-year Zero Emission Vehicle Strategy aiming for 50% of new car sales to be EVs by 2030 and 100% by 2036.
However, while Queensland has offered some generous electric vehicle incentives in the past, including rebates of up to $6,000 for new EV purchases, these have now ended with no plans for renewal.
The Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Rebate Scheme
The ZEV Rebate Scheme, which provided eligible Queenslanders with rebates of up to $6,000, stopped taking new applications on 2 September 2024. The scheme helped many drivers make the switch to cleaner transport, but with rising EV adoption, the government has decided to shift its focus away from direct purchase incentives.
What incentives are available?
Although Queensland has pulled the plug on rebates, some incentives remain to encourage EV adoption:
Discounted Registration Fees
EV owners in Queensland continue to benefit from reduced vehicle registration fees. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) attract the lowest level of registration fees compared to petrol or diesel cars. More information.
Reduced Registration Duty
A lower vehicle registration duty applies to EV purchases. Drivers of hybrid or electric vehicles pay the lowest vehicle registration duty rates in the state, making it slightly more affordable to transition away from fossil fuels. More information.
What can you do about the lack of incentives?
If you believe Queensland should be doing more to support EV adoption, there are ways to make your voice heard:
- Engage with online petitions to help show public demand for better incentives.
- Write to your local MP and let your representatives know that EV incentives should be a priority. For how to write, click here.
- Attend rallies or peaceful protests in your area to show your support.
EVs are the future, but Queensland is lagging behind in providing incentives to support the transition. While the government has ambitious targets for EV sales, it’s failing to provide meaningful financial support to help people make the switch. Without action, Queensland risks being left in the dust as other states push forward with stronger EV policies.
If you want to see Queensland take EV adoption seriously, now is the time to put pressure on decision-makers and demand better policies for a cleaner, more sustainable future.