Conservation Council of Western Australia Supports Federal Government’s New Electric Vehicle Strategy
The Conservation Council of Western Australia (CCWA) has expressed its support for the federal government’s recently announced electric vehicle (EV) strategy, aimed at making EVs more accessible and appealing to Australians. The strategy, unveiled by Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen, encompasses a comprehensive approach to removing barriers to EV adoption across the country.
Australia Introduces First Fuel Efficiency Standard to Modernize Transport Sector and Reduce Emissions
Key components of the strategy include the introduction of Australia’s first fuel efficiency standard for new cars and light commercial vehicles. This measure obliges car manufacturers to meet specific emissions targets across their entire range, thereby incentivising the sale and purchase of more fuel-efficient and electric vehicles. Currently, Australian consumers face vehicles that consume 40 per cent more fuel on average than their European counterparts and 20 per cent more than US models. Bowen emphasised that Australia’s lack of a fuel efficiency standard is a significant oversight among advanced economies and represents an overdue step toward modernising the nation’s transport sector.
The strategy aims for six primary outcomes: expanding EV choice, lowering transport-related emissions, improving nationwide charging infrastructure, boosting Australian manufacturing and recycling of EV materials, and reducing the overall running costs of vehicles. Importantly, while the federal government has not set an explicit target for EV adoption, it is committed to strategies that enhance availability and affordability.
Another notable aspect is the development of a national mapping tool designed to guide investments in EV charging infrastructure. This tool will identify high-demand areas to optimise charging station deployment and establish national standards to ensure consistency and reliability across the network. Additionally, the government plans to develop guidance for apartment dwellers to facilitate EV ownership.
Joe Heffernan, Executive Director of CCWA, remarked that advancing decarbonisation efforts through improved EV infrastructure is vital. “Ordinary Australians want cleaner, more affordable travel options, but they need greater choice, reliable access, and peace of mind,” he said. Highlighting Western Australia’s potential role, Heffernan noted that the state’s abundant renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, position it well to lead the nation in developing a world-class EV network powered by clean energy.
As Australia continues to lag behind global leaders in EV adoption, these initiatives represent a significant step forward. The government’s focus on fuel efficiency standards and infrastructure development signals a shift towards a more sustainable, efficient, and consumer-friendly transport future.
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