Antonella Abbate • 3 November 2023

New South Wales Reverses Course: Industry Reacts Negatively to Axing EV Rebate and Reintroducing EV Tax

In a surprising turn of events, the New South Wales state government has decided to withdraw its electric vehicle (EV) rebate program and reintroduce an EV tax, sending shockwaves through the automotive industry and environmental circles alike. This move has garnered a largely negative response from industry experts, environmental advocates, and consumers, raising questions about the state's commitment to clean energy and sustainable transportation.


The EV Rebate Program: A Promising Initiative


The New South Wales government had, until recently, been at the forefront of promoting electric vehicle adoption. One of its key initiatives was the EV rebate program, which provided financial incentives to individuals purchasing electric vehicles. This program aimed to encourage the transition from traditional internal combustion engine vehicles to cleaner, more sustainable electric alternatives.


The Rebate Reversal


However, the recent decision to scrap the EV rebate program has left many in disbelief. Industry experts had hailed the initiative as a positive step toward reducing carbon emissions and tackling air pollution in urban areas. The sudden withdrawal of financial incentives raises concerns about the state's dedication to its clean energy and environmental goals.


Reintroducing the EV Tax


To make matters worse, New South Wales has opted to reintroduce an EV tax. This tax will impose additional costs on electric vehicle owners, making EV ownership less appealing. Critics argue that such a tax could deter potential buyers and hinder the growth of the electric vehicle market in the state.


Negative Industry Response


Industry leaders and environmental advocates have not minced their words in responding to New South Wales' policy reversal. Here are some of the key concerns and criticisms:


Counterproductive Policy: The decision to eliminate the EV rebate and introduce an EV tax is seen as counterproductive to the state's goals of reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transportation. It sends a mixed message to consumers and manufacturers alike.


Incentive Erosion: The removal of incentives for electric vehicle purchases could slow down the adoption of EVs, hampering the state's efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.


Competitive Disadvantage: Critics argue that this move puts New South Wales at a competitive disadvantage compared to other states and countries actively encouraging electric vehicle adoption and reducing the carbon footprint of transportation.


Reduced Innovation: By discouraging electric vehicle adoption, New South Wales risks missing out on the benefits of electric vehicle innovation and technology, potentially impacting its long-term economic growth.


The New South Wales state government's decision to axe its EV rebate program and reintroduce an EV tax has sent shockwaves through the industry and environmental circles. While the state had been making strides in promoting sustainable transportation, this reversal raises questions about its commitment to clean energy and environmental stewardship.


Industry experts and environmental advocates argue that these policy changes are counterproductive and could hinder the growth of the electric vehicle market in the state. The long-term implications of such decisions on the environment, economic competitiveness, and technological innovation remain uncertain, leaving many concerned about the future of electric mobility in New South Wales.

Toyota to Offer Factory GVM Upgrade on Selected Models

by Antonella Abbate • 28 May 2026
Toyota Australia is set to introduce a factory-backed Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) upgrade package for selected four-wheel-drive models from August, providing owners with a higher legal payload capacity while retaining full factory warranty support and compliance.

Australia’s EV Love Affair Accelerates – and China is Leading the Charge

by Antonella Abbate • 25 May 2026
Across the Tasman this week, Chinese automotive giant BYD confirmed that almost 5,000 electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles are currently bound for Australia aboard its own dedicated vehicle carrier, the BYD Zhengzhou. The shipment, carrying 4,810 vehicles, marks the first Australian voyage of one of BYD’s purpose-built roll-on/roll-off vessels and is expected to dock in Melbourne before continuing to Sydney and Brisbane. What makes this story significant is not simply the size of the shipment, but what it says about the Australian market. BYD has already announced plans to bring an additional 30,000 new-energy vehicles to Australia in the coming months as demand for electric vehicles and hybrids continues to surge. For decades, Australian motorists were among the most loyal supporters of Japanese manufacturers, with brands from Toyota, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan and Honda dominating local driveways. Few industry observers would have predicted that Chinese brands would achieve such rapid acceptance. Yet Australian consumers have embraced brands such as BYD, MG, GWM, Chery, Geely, Zeekr and others with remarkable speed, treating many of them as though they have been established players for generations. Australia’s transition mirrors trends seen throughout Europe and North America, where consumers are increasingly seeking lower running costs, improved technology, longer warranties and electrified drivetrains. The difference in Australia is that much of this growth is being driven by Chinese manufacturers rather than traditional Western brands. Affordability, strong specifications, competitive warranty programs and rapid product development have reshaped buyer perceptions almost overnight. BYD’s decision to deploy its own shipping fleet to Australia is perhaps the clearest signal yet that global manufacturers now view Australia as a strategic growth market. When a manufacturer is prepared to invest in dedicated logistics to deliver thousands of vehicles directly to Australian customers, it demonstrates confidence not only in its products but also in the appetite of Australian motorists for electrified transport. The message is simple: Australia's EV and hybrid revolution is no longer coming—it has arrived, and Chinese manufacturers are playing a leading role in shaping the next chapter of the nation's automotive landscape.

Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) announces new appointments

by Antonella Abbate • 25 May 2026
Mr Lamb brings decades of diverse leadership experience across various sectors, both domestically and internationally. Most recently, he served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Murray-Darling Association. Previously, Mr Lamb has held several executive roles with distinct peak body organisations, where he worked closely with government and industry. During his tenure, assisted many organisations to transition into new strategies and methodologies. With his notable experience, he is well positioned to lead the ARC at a time when the refrigeration and air conditioning (RAC) industry is growing at a rapid pace. Mr Lamb succeeds Glenn Evans, who concluded his tenure in December 2025 after 17 years of service. ARC Chair Dr Greg Picker said he was pleased to welcome Mr Lamb to mark the next phase for the Council, which leads national governance of the RAC (also known as ARCtick) Permit Scheme. “The Board is pleased to appoint Mark Lamb as our new CEO. We look forward to working with him as we continue to deliver the ARCtick permit scheme and improve our service to industry. His passion and experience in leading peak body organisations perfectly aligns with the ARC’s priorities at this time and our vision for the future,” Dr Picker said. “It is a crucial time for the industry, and the Board is confident Mark will help us build on our momentum and continue deliver meaning outcomes for the ARC and the broader industry.”  Commenting on his appointment, Mr Lamb said, “I am thrilled to be given this opportunity to play this significant role, not just at the Australian Refrigeration Council, but in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.