The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is overhauling its vehicle registration system. Starting 1 July 2024, fees will be based on a vehicle’s emission levels instead of its weight. This, according to the ACT government, aims to encourage the use of low and zero-emissions vehicles as part of Canberra’s broader strategy to achieve net zero emissions by 2045.
Under the new system, lower-emission vehicles including electric and hybrid cars will benefit from reduced registration fees. For example, Hyundai Kona which is an EV can be registered for $363 from the previous $661. Meanwhile, cars like the Hyundai Ioniq and the Toyota Camry will see a reduction of $50.
In a report from Drive, Chief Minister and Minister for Climate Action Andrew Barr stated, “The changes are designed to minimise cost-of-living pressures – with 96 percent of all vehicles paying the same or less as part of the transition when the Government ends the current two-year free registration for zero-emissions vehicles.”
When combined with adjustments to stamp duty and concessions, the ACT Government claims that this change will help motorists save $6,6 million over four years.
The new system will be phased over several years, allowing vehicle owners to adjust. While vehicle registration fees typically increase annually, the emissions-based system offers potential savings for low-emission vehicles.
Estimating Registration Costs
The ACT Government has provided an online vehicle registration tool to help vehicle owners estimate their registration fees under the new emissions-based system.
For more information and to calculate your vehicle registration costs, visit the ACT Government’s vehicle registration tool here.
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