The Electric Vehicle Council has welcomed Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's comments defending electric vehicle policies as essential cost of living measures, made at a press conference on Friday morning.
When asked about opposition calls to cut EV support, the Prime Minister was unequivocal:
"They've called for cuts to EV support. I don't think there's anyone out there today who has bought an electric vehicle who's regretting the decision at this point in time.
"The Prime Minister added: "My Government has always been strong on cost of living measures. We'll continue to do so."
Julie Delvecchio, CEO of the Electric Vehicle Council, welcomed the Prime Minister's position on electric vehicle support.
"On Friday, the Prime Minister said it plainly and we're glad he did - support for EVs is a cost of living policy and he defended EV support.
"We welcome that defence. Measures like the Electric Car Discount are practical, proven tools that put cleaner, cheaper transport within reach of ordinary Australians.
"EVs aren't a climate luxury — they're a cost of living measure. The Prime Minister said so today, and we agree."
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen has echoed the sentiment, stating:
"We don't think you make petrol cheaper by making electricity more expensive"
The EVC agrees with Minister Bowen that the cheapest fuel is the one you never have to buy at a servo," said Ms Delvecchio.
"Switching to an electric vehicle is saving households up to $3,000 per year in fuel and protecting them from volatile fuel prices."
The Council warned that any move to cut the Electric Car Discount would increase pressure on household budgets at a time when Australians are already facing cost of living challenges.
Ms Delvecchio said that "scrapping or weakening the Discount would make it harder for everyday Australians to access these savings and would lock more families into higher fuel costs."
Beyond household benefits, the EVC emphasised the role EV uptake is playing in strengthening Australia's fuel security. Ms Delvecchio said "every electric vehicle on the road reduces Australia's reliance on imported petrol and diesel. That's good for drivers and it's good for the country.
"As global fuel markets remain uncertain, policies like the Electric Car Discount are helping insulate Australians from international price shocks while keeping more money in local economies.
The EVC called on all members of Parliament to support the continued success of the policy.
"This is a practical, popular reform that is delivering real benefits right now.
"We urge policymakers to retain the Electric Car Discount so more Australians can lower their transport costs and Australia can continue strengthening its fuel independence."
