Backing for $302m package

The Motor Industry Association (MIA) says the new-vehicle sector is supportive of a number of announcements in the budget. 

There is provision in the budget that establishes a $302 million tagged contingency to implement a regime to incentivise the uptake of low-emissions vehicles, which is particularly welcomed. 

David Crawford, pictured, the MIA’s chief executive, says: “We have consistently advised the government that if they want to accelerate the uptake of low-emissions vehicles, then they need to address their lack of affordability – at least in the short to medium term – compared to their equivalent internal-combustion engine vehicles.

“We also welcome the commitment already announced of $42m to help decarbonise the public sector’s vehicle fleet. 

“Finally, an announcement by [Minister] Megan Woods to amend the low-emission vehicles contestable fund to become the low-emissions transport fund is timely.”