The Electric Vehicle Council has partnered with the City of Ryde to launch a comprehensive guide to help local councils lead the transition to electric vehicles and support uptake in their communities.
The Electric Vehicle Resource Pack for Local Governments is now available online, offering the latest practical tools and guidance to assist Australia's local councils transition to an EV future.
The Electric Vehicle Council recommends that local governments focus on eight policy areas including setting sustainability targets, incentivising the adoption of EVs, supporting the installation of charging infrastructure, and transitioning council fleets.
Electric Vehicle Council Senior Policy Officer Cameron Rimington said: "All change starts local and there are many ways councils stand to benefit from supporting EVs-from boosting local tourism, to helping residents save up to $3,000 a year on fuel and maintenance, to cutting emissions for cleaner air and healthier communities.
"Many councils are already leading the charge in the EV transition including through emissions-based parking fees, driving fully electric garbage trucks, and partnering with private EV charging providers. At the same time, many local councils are eager to support their communities' shift to electric vehicles but aren't sure where to begin.
"With over 500 councils across Australia at different stages of their electrification journey, there's no one-size-fits-all approach but our resource pack will help councils navigate the transition.
"The EVC has been delighted to partner with our longstanding LGA member, the City of Ryde, who have been leading from the front on EVs for almost a decade. Our updated LGA pack provides practical tips, answers frequently asked council questions, and spotlights case studies that can inspire further action."
City of Ryde Mayor Trenton Brown said: "The City of Ryde has been at the forefront of the EV transition, recognising the significant cost savings, environmental benefits and improved liveability they offer to our community.
"Council's EV journey started back in 2017 with just two vehicles and three public chargers. Since then, we have undertaken community surveys, adopted a Sustainable Transport Strategy and developed EV transition strategies in line with our Net Zero Emissions targets.
"We are now in the process of refreshing some of our transport strategies to prepare for the next stage of our EV transition with a clear focus on transitioning our own fleet and increasing public EV charging options for our community.
"Councils cannot do this alone, however, which is why we are a proud local government member of the Electric Vehicle Council and we look forward to the opportunities this partnership will bring towards net zero emissions and a sustainable transport future."
