Interest in electric vehicles (EVs) and home electrification has increased with fuel prices.
The article outlines financial incentives available in Australia for EVs, solar panels, and home appliances.
Federal EV Tax Break
The federal government's Electric Car Discount exempts eligible EVs from fringe benefits tax (FBT) when obtained through a novated lease (agreement between employee, employer, and financier).
The exemption is extended until April 2027. From April 2027 to April 2029, the FBT discount applies only to vehicles under A$75,000. From April 2029, all EVs below the luxury car tax threshold (currently A$91,387) receive a 25% FBT discount.
"Only 2% of Australia's car fleet are electric vehicles."
— Kristen McDonald, Director, Rewiring Australia
State Incentives
- Queensland: Small discounts on stamp duty and annual registration.
- New South Wales: Concession on motor vehicle tax and small discount on registration.
- Northern Territory: A$1,500 discount on stamp duty for new/used battery-electric, fuel-cell, and plug-in hybrids until July 2027; free registration.
- Western Australia: A$15m grants scheme for small business, not-for-profit, and local government EV charging infrastructure.
Solar Panel Support
The federal Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme reduces solar system costs via Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) issued to installers, who pass on discounts. State-specific rebates and loans may apply — for example, Victorian households can receive up to A$1,400 rebate plus an interest-free loan. Feed-in tariffs vary by state for surplus electricity exported to the grid.
Quotes
"It's 'too early to take away the incentives that would encourage a switch to electric vehicles.'"
— Kristen McDonald, Rewiring Australia
McDonald also noted she charges her EV from a standard wall socket overnight using a plan with a low off-peak rate.