Australia passes New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) Bill into law

The Electric Vehicle Council of Australia has congratulated the Fedral Government for passing the New Vehicle Efficiency Standards Bill (NVES) into law.

The legislation will be enacted on January 1, 2025. 

EVC chief executive Behyad Jafari says the legislation represented a significant leap forward for Australia in its commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

“After multiple attempts by different governments, Australia finally joins the rest of the world,” Jafari says. 

“For many years now, we’ve campaigned for Australia to join the US and Europe by introducing vehicle efficiency standards so car makers are incentivised to offer their best and most affordable electric options to Australians.

“The passing of these new standards is a testament to the Albanese Government’s commitment to policies that will help Australia become a leader in the global transition to electric vehicles. This move sends a clear signal to the international automotive industry: Australia now demands the same options in electric cars, vans, and utes that you offer to the US and Europe.

“Australian drivers will benefit from access to a more excellent choice of vehicles, lower fuel bills, and accurate cuts to transport emissions. Most Australian drivers are now interested in electric options, and more choices will naturally drive greater take-up of EVs. Ultimately, these standards will mean all Australian consumers are paying lower fuel bills, breathing cleaner air, and enjoying an excellent choice of the latest and greatest in new cars.

“Thanks to these standards, Australia will no longer be considered the global dumping ground for the world’s most inefficient vehicles. Importantly, these standards are robust and transparent, giving us a solid foundation to build in future years,” he says.

Jafari acknowledged the contributions of EVC members to the new laws today. 

“I’m proud of EVC members’ role in delivering today’s result. Their dedication and advocacy have been instrumental in achieving this milestone,” Jafari says. 

“I congratulate the federal government for having the mettle to take this step forward after several of their predecessors promised but failed to introduce this reform in the national interest.”