At a recent event, ANC celebrated a significant milestone in its commitment to reducing transport emissions, transitioning from a pilot stage to full implementation. The event was not only a testament to ANC’s leadership in decarbonising its fleet but also an opportunity to reflect on broader progress in Australia’s transition towards sustainable transport.
The event was further marked by an endorsement from The Hon. Chris Bowen, Minister for Climate Change and Energy, who highlighted the importance of reducing transport emissions, the role of government policies, and the ongoing challenges in ensuring that electric vehicle (EV) adoption continues to accelerate across the country. His speech underscored that while progress has been made, much more work is required.
The Importance of Transport Decarbonisation
Minister Bowen’s address positioned transport decarbonisation as a key pillar in Australia’s broader strategy to combat climate change. He noted that while climate change denial is less prevalent today, it has evolved into what he terms “all too hardism”—a mindset where individuals acknowledge the science but believe the challenges are insurmountable.
However, the Minister refuted this notion, stating:
“Decarbonisation of our transport system actually is not too hard. It has challenges, we have obstacles, we have work to do, but it is happening.”
Transport currently ranks as the third-largest emitting sector in Australia, but without intervention, it is poised to become the largest as emissions from the electricity and industrial sectors decline. Bowen outlined three critical areas that will determine the success of Australia’s transition to cleaner transport: consumer adoption, vehicle availability, and charging infrastructure.
Consumer Adoption: A Shift in Attitudes
One of the most encouraging signs of progress is the growing number of Australians embracing EVs. Bowen shared that there are now 300,000 EVs on Australian roads, with two-thirds of them sold in the last three years. This surge has been partly driven by government incentives, such as the EV tax cut, which has made electric cars more affordable.
Consumer sentiment is also shifting, with a third of Australians considering an EV for their next vehicle purchase. Many are still weighing their options, particularly around price and infrastructure, but the momentum is clear. Bowen noted that while Australia is not yet at the international average for EV sales, the country is making rapid progress.
Expanding Vehicle Choices for Australians
One of the biggest hurdles for widespread EV adoption has been limited vehicle options, especially for budget-conscious consumers. The Minister highlighted how the situation has improved dramatically in the past three years, with the number of available EV models in Australia tripling.
This increase in choices is partly a result of Australia’s new vehicle efficiency standards, which came into effect on January 1, 2025. These standards ensure that car manufacturers prioritise low-emission vehicles for the Australian market, instead of treating the country as a dumping ground for high-emission models.
A key example of this shift is the BYD Shark, an electric ute that has already received 5,000 pre-orders, despite none having yet arrived in Australia. This level of demand signals that Australians are ready to adopt larger EVs, including utes and SUVs, provided they meet consumer needs in terms of range and affordability.
Notably, there is now an EV available for under $35,000, a price point that is crucial for increasing accessibility. Bowen expressed optimism that as more affordable models enter the market, adoption rates will continue to climb.
Overcoming the Charging Infrastructure Challenge
While progress in EV uptake and model availability has been strong, Bowen acknowledged that charging infrastructure remains a major challenge. Since the government took office, the number of public chargers in Australia has tripled, but the country still falls short of the international average.
Currently, Australia has one charger for every 68 EVs, compared to the global average of one charger per 11 EVs. This gap presents a major barrier for potential buyers, particularly those without access to home charging.
To address this issue, Bowen announced a new initiative:
ARENA is partnering with EVx to install 250 new curbside chargers across Australia.
“Curbside charging is very important because one of the challenges for those people who are thinking about buying an EV is if they don’t have a driveway or a garage.”
These chargers, each equipped with two ports, will add 500 more public charging points, making it easier for urban dwellers to own an EV. Importantly, the rollout will extend beyond major cities, with new chargers planned for regional locations such as Wagga Wagga, Maitland, and Bellingen.
This initiative acknowledges that range anxiety is still a perceived issue for many Australians. While long-distance charging networks already exist, many consumers are unaware of their accessibility. Bowen noted that efforts must continue not only in expanding infrastructure but also in educating the public about the existing network.
ANC’s Role in the Transition
ANC’s milestone in reducing transport emissions was a key highlight of the event. The company has moved beyond pilot programs to fully commit to fleet electrification, making significant progress in reducing the emissions of its delivery partners.
The company’s leadership in the transition was recognised at the event, with speakers highlighting the importance of private sector action alongside government policy. ANC’s work showcases that fleet electrification is not just an environmental decision but also a sound business strategy, helping companies reduce long-term fuel and maintenance costs.
Government Commitment to Further Progress
Bowen wrapped up his speech by reinforcing the government’s commitment to continued action in reducing transport emissions. While progress has been significant over the past three years, he estimates that Australia is still only 10% of the way to where it needs to be.
The Minister emphasised that the transition to clean transport is not just an environmental imperative but also an economic opportunity. EVs lower costs for businesses and households while also reducing dependence on imported fuels.
“What’s good for the planet is good for your pocket, better for everyone involved.”
The government plans to continue working closely with industry leaders like ANC, ARENA, and the Electric Vehicle Council to ensure that Australia remains on track for a zero-emissions transport future.
ANC’s event underscored that the transition to cleaner transport is not just an aspiration but an active, ongoing process. With stronger government policies, rising consumer adoption, expanding vehicle choices, and improvements in charging infrastructure, Australia is on the path to significantly reducing transport emissions.
However, as Bowen pointed out, this is just the beginning. Continued investment, private sector leadership, and government commitment will be required to maintain momentum and ensure that Australia achieves its decarbonisation goals.
With ANC leading by example and government policies driving systemic change, the future of Australian transport looks increasingly electric, efficient, and sustainable.
