The AADA welcomes the opportunity to provide a submission to the NSW Legislative Council Public Accountability and Works Committee’s Inquiry and Review of the Electric Vehicles (Revenue Arrangements) Act 2021 (the Act). The AADA note
that this review forms part of the mandated two-year statutory review process established under the Act.
The AADA recognises the policy rationale for moving to a Road User Charge framework. However, AADA strongly supports a nationally consistent model for the design and implementation of any RUC system. If introduced as planned, NSW would be the only Australian state with a RUC, creating disadvantages for NSW motorists, particularly those living near state borders, and placing local industry at a commercial disadvantage.
The AADA is also concerned that introducing a NSW specific RUC could discourage consumers from purchasing a ZLEV.