In a world where the environment is becoming an increasingly pressing concern, Australia is taking strides to encourage its citizens to make more eco-friendly choices, particularly when it comes to transportation.

This Aussie state’s bold move is set to transform the way residents think about their daily commute, offering significant benefits for both the environment and motorists' wallets.

As the state takes strides towards a greener tomorrow, this latest development is poised to spark considerable interest and debate among residents.

Queenslanders are being given a significant financial incentive to join the electric vehicle (EV) revolution. If you're a driver in the Sunshine State, you might just be eligible for a substantial $6,000 cash boost to help you switch from your petrol or diesel vehicle to a cleaner, greener electric car.

This initiative is part of the Queensland Zero Emissions Rebate Scheme that started in July 2023, which is not just a fleeting offer but a long-term commitment by the state government, with a whopping $45 million dedicated to funding the program over the next decade until 2032.

The goal? To make electric vehicles more accessible and affordable for individuals and businesses, thereby reducing carbon emissions and contributing to a healthier environment.

Queensland drivers can receive a $6,000 rebate to purchase electric vehicles under specific cost and income criteria. Credit: Shutterstock

So, who's eligible for this generous rebate? If you're an individual with a taxable income of $180,000 or less per year, and you're looking to purchase an EV valued at less than $68,000 on or after April 21, 2023, you could be in for a financial windfall.

If you've already taken the plunge and purchased an EV worth less than $58,000 between March 16, 2022, and April 20, 2023, you're also in luck, as you qualify for the rebate.

Additionally, drivers can also receive a $3,000 rebate if the electric vehicle is valued at up to $58,000 or $68,000.

But what about businesses?

While they may not be eligible for the full $6,000 payment, they can still benefit from a $3,000 rebate if they meet certain criteria, including having purchased the vehicle after March 16, 2022, and if they've previously received a $3,000 rebate as part of the scheme.

It's no secret that buying an EV in Australia can be a costly affair, with the average price of an electric vehicle hovering around $50,000, and even reaching an average of $86,000 in the first half of 2023.

This is in stark contrast to the average price of petrol and diesel cars, which was $54,600 during the same period.

However, with the Queensland government's rebate, the financial barrier to entry is significantly lowered.

For those looking for the most wallet-friendly options, the GWM Ora Hatchback, valued at $35,990, and the BYD Dolphin Hatchback, starting at $36,890 before on-road costs, are currently the most affordable electric cars available in Australia.

The push for electric vehicles is not just a local trend but a global movement, with Australia becoming a battleground for EV manufacturers vying to offer affordable options to consumers.

American giant Tesla is facing stiff competition from Chinese companies like BYD, which sold 1,914 vehicles in May, hot on the heels of Tesla's 3,567 cars sold during the same period.

Despite the cost of living crisis, driven by inflation and consecutive interest rate rises, the sale of electric vehicles remains steady in Australia, with 10,464 bull battery EVs sold in March, according to Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries figures.

In fact, a new monthly record was set in June 2023, with 11,042 EVs sold, indicating a growing appetite among Australians for sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation options.

Electric vehicle (EV) schemes vary significantly across Australia.

In New South Wales, a $3,000 rebate for EV purchases ended on January 1, but the state has committed $260 million to EV charging infrastructure.

Victoria no longer offers a $3,000 rebate but provides a $100 annual vehicle registration discount for EV buyers.

In South Australia, the EV rebate program ended on January 1, but EV owners can enjoy a three-year registration exemption for cars worth less than $68,750, applicable to vehicles registered between October 28, 2021, and June 30, 2025.

Western Australian motorists receive a $3,500 rebate for new EVs worth $70,000 or less.

In Tasmania, drivers are eligible for a $2,000 rebate, though availability is limited.

In the Australian Capital Territory, EV owners are exempt from stamp duty and benefit from lower registration fees.

Finally, in the Northern Territory, eligible plug-in EVs enjoy free registration until June 30, 2027, alongside stamp duty concessions worth $1,500 for EVs valued up to $50,000.

While Queensland's generous EV rebates are set to boost electric vehicle adoption, it's important for prospective buyers to consider the long-term value of their investment.

Recent discussions have raised concerns about the potential depreciation of EVs in Australia, posing a significant financial risk for owners.

This situation highlights the need for thorough research and careful planning before making the switch to electric vehicles.

Key Takeaways

• Queensland drivers are being offered a $6,000 government rebate to purchase electric vehicles (EVs) under specific cost and income criteria.
• The rebate scheme is a part of the Queensland Zero Emissions Rebate Scheme, which seeks to encourage the uptake of EVs among individuals and businesses.
• Businesses in Queensland are eligible for a $3,000 rebate but not the full $6,000 payment, with certain conditions applying.
• The incentive comes as electric vehicles remain expensive amidst a cost of living crisis, but efforts are being made to introduce more affordable options into the Australian market.

Have you considered purchasing an electric vehicle or already own one? What are your thoughts on the change from petrol or diesel to electric vehicles? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

 

[maxtyson]

Sure I already have one. My trusty Gopher.I am happy with 15km per hour with a range of 35 km.

 

[Lizzie1149]

I won't be buying one any time soon. Pensions can't afford EVs. The up front cost then the replacement of the battery 5-7 years down the track is not economical for most people. Hybrids might work but I just think it's a real scam.

 

[Tactful]

The only benefit to our environment is no exhaust emissions. These cars are heavier than a traditional car, batteries are not recyclable, when they catch fire they can't be extinguished like a normal car. Lithium has a nasty habit of catching fire whilst being charged.
The new car price is far more than a pensioner could reasonably afford, don't buy 2nd hand as it is usually due to the vehicle needing a replacement replacement battery and from what I have read these can cost as much as a new car.

 

[Kman]

BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. What a lod of cods wallop. It has been proved that EV's are not the way to go. The cost to obtain the raw minerals alone for one vehicle is staggering. The recyclability is ridiculous. Charging?????
Diesel generators are being used around the world to charge them. Especially remote regions (I think Australia has a few). What more is there?

 

[Lizzie1149]

The only benefit to our environment is no exhaust emissions. These cars are heavier than a traditional car, batteries are not recyclable, when they catch fire they can't be extinguished like a normal car. Lithium has a nasty habit of catching fire whilst being charged.
The new car price is far more than a pensioner could reasonably afford, don't buy 2nd hand as it is usually due to the vehicle needing a replacement replacement battery and from what I have read these can cost as much as a new car.

Not true, cost of mining the crap that goes into the batteries and the computer systems far outweighs the exhaust emissions from regular fuel cars. Cost to replace battery when it dies is astronomical not to mention the purchase price. Hybrids might be okay but I'm starting the think it's all about stopping people from buying vehicles. 15 minute cities, walk to everywhere, want to go further get a permit. This is not conspiracy theory already being set up in Oxford in the UK

 

[Veggiepatch]

BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. What a lod of cods wallop. It has been proved that EV's are not the way to go. The cost to obtain the raw minerals alone for one vehicle is staggering. The recyclability is ridiculous. Charging?????
Diesel generators are being used around the world to charge them. Especially remote regions (I think Australia has a few). What more is there?

Not true, cost of mining the crap that goes into the batteries and the computer systems far outweighs the exhaust emissions from regular fuel cars. Cost to replace battery when it dies is astronomical not to mention the purchase price. Hybrids might be okay but I'm starting the think it's all about stopping people from buying vehicles. 15 minute cities, walk to everywhere, want to go further get a permit. This is not conspiracy theory already being set up in Oxford in the UK

I have been studying the "mechanics" of lithium battery production from mining of raw materials to the end product for the last couple of years. Firstly, the energy expended in lithium ore extraction is many times that of oil extraction. Same goes for the refinement of the ore as compared to refining of crude oil. Guess where the energy comes from for both processes. Yes!! Good ole fossil fuels!

Secondly, the environmental impact of lithium mining due to its reliance on HUGE amounts of water to the extent that the water table has been substantially lowered in some regions, usually arid to start with, to render agriculture impossible.

A big price to pay for something that is meant to "save" the environment, when it is doing the complete opposite!

 

[IAN3005]

I won't be buying one any time soon. Pensions can't afford EVs. The up front cost then the replacement of the battery 5-7 years down the track is not economical for most people. Hybrids might work but I just think it's a real scam.

The whole EV car thing is a scam....

 

[rehandra]

No way. At my age my driving days are in their twilight years but I will stick with my 2011 toyota corolla with only 48K on the clock and it has never missed a beat due to servicing and only driving locally. It will see us out and our annual petrol bill is under $600 usually. The idea of an electric car has no appeal whatsoever an the cost for starters is no incentive. Charging where I live there are only a couple around and in our village we have no chargers at all and we will eventually only get two in the village and no charging in units allowed.

 

[IAN3005]

No way. At my age my driving days are in their twilight years but I will stick with my 2011 toyota corolla with only 48K on the clock and it has never missed a beat due to servicing and only driving locally. It will see us out and our annual petrol bill is under $600 usually. The idea of an electric car has no appeal whatsoever an the cost for starters is no incentive. Charging where I live there are only a couple around and in our village we have no chargers at all and we will eventually only get two in the village and no charging in units allowed.

Soon they will put a tax on those cars that make it prohibitive to own one

 

[LeahI]

Until the infrastructure is fully expanded it's not a good option for an EV. Too few stations carrying all the plug ins.
Hybrid is still a better choice if you want to get away from a full fuel vehicle.

You know when something is a shit idea coz the govt is throwing money at it.

 

[JudyNetel]

Not true, cost of mining the crap that goes into the batteries and the computer systems far outweighs the exhaust emissions from regular fuel cars. Cost to replace battery when it dies is astronomical not to mention the purchase price. Hybrids might be okay but I'm starting the think it's all about stopping people from buying vehicles. 15 minute cities, walk to everywhere, want to go further get a permit. This is not conspiracy theory already being set up in Oxford in the UK

I don’t like what you wrote Lizzie1149 only because every word is right on the money ! Great to know we are not all sleeping at the wheel! Keep on spreading the word as you are and maybe the plans of a few… WHO?? Crazies, Will be foiled

 

[Ian D]

Are hybrid cars not included in this, EVs only. I think it is hard to think that EVs will survive & do the distances needed in regional areas.
Now hybrids might be a different story?

 

[Rob44]

BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. What a lod of cods wallop. It has been proved that EV's are not the way to go. The cost to obtain the raw minerals alone for one vehicle is staggering. The recyclability is ridiculous. Charging?????
Diesel generators are being used around the world to charge them. Especially remote regions (I think Australia has a few). What more is there?

Australla has the capability of reducing natural gas to hydrogen and graphite via a catalytic process that involves iron ore. There is a pilot plant doing this in WA. It would be logical to pipe our natural gas to such plants built next to the present power stations to burn the hydrogen for power. CSIRO has been involved in the development of this system. If interested visit the CSIRO website ,or even just the Google web-site, and use the keywords Hazer Process Hydrogen From Natural Gas. Beats selling our natural gas unnaturally cheaply overseas to Japan /PR China/wherever.

 

[Rob44]

Until the infrastructure is fully expanded it's not a good option for an EV. Too few stations carrying all the plug ins.
Hybrid is still a better choice if you want to get away from a full fuel vehicle.

You know when something is a shit idea coz the govt is throwing money at it.

Governments throw money at technology because it pays off in the long term. Private enterprise commonly goes for short-term profit for long-term pain. Irrespective of the resources used for electric vehicles, the aim would seem to be to get us to think beyond petrol.

Personally, I'd prefer government to throw our money at far better public transport and not at $750 000 000 AFL stadiums or handouts to the wealthy to buy electric cars.

 

[mylittletibbies]

Oh, pensioners will be so happy.
Maybe we can all get a loan
(That we can't afford) so we qualify for a $6000 rebate.
We can add that to the $4000 work bonus,(work that in most cases people won't hire us for, due to age discrimination).
Whoopy doo, we could all afford to go off on a cruise together.
Lucky us!!
Our government is soooo generous.

 

[Rob44]

Not true, cost of mining the crap that goes into the batteries and the computer systems far outweighs the exhaust emissions from regular fuel cars. Cost to replace battery when it dies is astronomical not to mention the purchase price. Hybrids might be okay but I'm starting the think it's all about stopping people from buying vehicles. 15 minute cities, walk to everywhere, want to go further get a permit. This is not conspiracy theory already being set up in Oxford in the UK

One can cycle to anywhere in Oxford in 15 minutes, and it used to be 25 minutes to cycle to anywhere in Hanoi until the Vietnamese all decided to buy bigger, faster status symbols (cars and SUVs) such as is happening in Australia.

 

[Rob44]

Not true, cost of mining the crap that goes into the batteries and the computer systems far outweighs the exhaust emissions from regular fuel cars. Cost to replace battery when it dies is astronomical not to mention the purchase price. Hybrids might be okay but I'm starting the think it's all about stopping people from buying vehicles. 15 minute cities, walk to everywhere, want to go further get a permit. This is not conspiracy theory already being set up in Oxford in the UK

If you had seen the traffic jams in Oxford even back in the 1970s you'd be wanting Oxfordians to have a permit to drive anywhere in that town. By the 1960s the university had banned 1st year students from running a motor vehicle in Oxford during their first year of residence .

 

[Rickcb63]

If only they were actually a green machine as advertised !
rather than a ticking time bomb .

 

[Abby2]

I won't be buying one any time soon. Pensions can't afford EVs. The up front cost then the replacement of the battery 5-7 years down the track is not economical for most people. Hybrids might work but I just think it's a real scam.

With the inadequate infrastructure in NSW the hybrid is the only way to go