Victorian automotive industry calls for a comprehensive approach to achieve 2035 emissions reduction goals
18 September 2025 – The Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) welcomes the Federal Government's commitment to achieving a 62–70% emissions reduction by 2035. Still, it warns that without substantial and sustained investment in both charging infrastructure and industry capability, these ambitious targets risk becoming unattainable aspirations.
Whilst the Government's $40 million commitment to accelerate kerbside and fast EV charging infrastructure represents a positive first step, the VACC believes this investment falls well short of what is required to eliminate the charging and range anxiety that continues to deter Australian motorists from embracing electric vehicles.
"The scale of transformation required to meet the 2035 targets demands investment that matches the ambition," said Peter Jones, VACC CEO. "Forty million dollars, whilst welcome, is simply inadequate to deliver the comprehensive charging network needed across metropolitan, regional, and rural Australia."
Critical Skills and Service Gap
Beyond infrastructure challenges, the VACC highlights a critical shortage in automotive service capacity that threatens to undermine the transition to electric vehicles. Victoria currently lacks sufficient EV ready service centres and qualified technicians to meet even the state's 2030 targets, let alone support the accelerated timeline required for national objectives.
"The electric vehicle transition will only succeed if we have the skilled workforce and service infrastructure to support it," Mr Jones said.
Industry Transition Support Essential
The VACC emphasises that the automotive service industry stands ready to support Australia's climate objectives, but requires targeted assistance to make the necessary transition. The organisation is calling on the Federal Government to implement a comprehensive support package that addresses both consumer and industry needs.
VACC's Key Recommendations:
- Extend consumer incentives: Maintain and expand EV purchase incentives to drive market adoption and make electric vehicles accessible to more Australian families.
- Scale up charging infrastructure: Commit to a national EV charging network that matches the scope and timeline of the 2035 emissions target.
- Invest in workforce development: Establish comprehensive training programmes to upskill automotive technicians and ensure every Australian community has access to safe, EV servicing.
- Support industry transition: Provide targeted assistance to help automotive workshops adapt their facilities and expand their electric vehicle service capabilities.
"Australia's automotive industry is committed to playing its part in achieving the nations’ climate goals," Mr Jones concluded. "However, ambitious targets must be supported by practical measures that enable both consumers and industry to navigate this transition successfully. Without this support, we risk setting targets we simply cannot achieve."
ENDS
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