For residents of the ACT, there’s never been a better time to own an EV. With almost 1,000 electric cars on the road and counting, the government are deeply invested in attracting more EV owners.

From local perks to regional financial incentives, there are many ways you will benefit. So that you’re clear on what you can and can’t do with your EV, or what you receive in terms of support towards ownership, we’ve answered all your questions below.

I want to buy an EV; can I get any financial help?

Yes. The ACT boasts the most generous financial incentives for the purchase and registration of electric cars. As part of the region’s Sustainable Household Scheme, eligible ACT households can receive zero-interest loans of between $2,000 to $15,000 to help towards the purchase of an EV.

How do I check if my household is eligible for an EV loan?

To access a loan to put towards the cost of an EV, there are four main criteria:

  1. You must reside in the ACT.
  2. You must hold a valid ACT Driver Licence.
  3. The EV you wish to buy must be powered by a mechanism that produces zero emissions.
  4. The total EV cost must be less than the luxury car tax threshold for fuel-efficient vehicles. For 2021-22 this threshold is $79,659.

Will my EV be exempt from stamp duty?

Yes. Electric vehicles that are purchased for the first time are eligible for a full stamp duty exemption.

Do I get free vehicle registration?

Yes. New or used zero-emissions vehicles in the ACT purchased or acquired from before 30 June 2024 will receive two years of free registration.

Can electric cars drive in bus lanes without penalty?

No, electric cars cannot currently use bus lanes in Canberra and the greater ACT, although it has been proposed.

Do I get free parking for my EV?

Unfortunately, not. You may only park your car for free if you are actively charging it up a public charging bay. Parking at an EV charging bay without charging it may incur you a penalty fine.

Summary

  • The ACT government offer eligible ACT households zero-interest loans of between $2,000 to $15,000 to help towards the purchase of an EV.
  • EVs are exempt from stamp duty and get two years free registration.
  • EVs cannot currently use bus lanes in the ACT and are not entitled to free parking.

Are you considering making the switch to an electric vehicle? ActewAGL can help you effortlessly find, finance and charge your EV. Discover how ActewAGL can support your transition to sustainable driving today.

Sources

https://www.environment.act.gov.au/cc/zero-emissions-vehicles

https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/s/article/motor-vehicle-registration-and-renewal-tab-zero-emissions-vehicle-registration#:~:text=Zero%20emissions%20vehicles%20purchased%20before,ongoing%20reduction%20in%20registration%20fees.

https://www.climatechoices.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0010/1861570/Sustainable-Household-Scheme-Guidelines-For-Participants.pdf