VACC Participated in Critical EV Transition Inquiry
This week The Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) has played a key role in the discussions of Australia's electric vehicle (EV) future. Acting Executive Manager, Policy and Communications Dr Imogen Garcia Reid, Industry Policy Advisor John Khoury, alongside MTAA CEO Matt Hobbs, provided expert testimony at a public hearing in Melbourne, as part of a broader inquiry into the nation's transition to electric vehicles.
The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water conducted this crucial investigation.
As part of their fact-finding mission, the Committee was in Melbourne on Thursday, for a full day of public hearings at the Parliament of Victoria.
Our VACC representatives joined a diverse panel of industry stakeholders, including health and environmental groups, petroleum and motor industry experts, and emergency services personnel. Their testimony contributed valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges presented by the EV transition from the perspective of Victoria's automotive businesses.
The inquiry's Melbourne leg also featured site visits to two key facilities:
- Infinitev: A company specializing in the reuse, repurposing, and recycling of hybrid and EV batteries.
- ANCAP Safety test facility: Where the Committee observed a crash test involving an EV or hybrid model.
These visits underscored the comprehensive approach the inquiry took to understand the full lifecycle and safety implications of EVs.
Mr. Tony Zappia MP, Chair of the Committee, emphasized the importance of these hearings, stating, "The Committee heard valuable evidence about the benefits and challenges that the transition to EVs presents. We looked forward to meeting with witnesses in Melbourne to delve deeper into these issues to help inform our inquiry."
As a leading voice in Victoria's automotive industry, VACC is committed to ensuring that the concerns and perspectives of our members were heard at this critical juncture. Our participation in this inquiry reflected our dedication to playing an active role in shaping policies that will affect the future of automotive businesses across the state and nation.
The Melbourne hearing was just one part of a series of public hearings, with additional sessions scheduled for Brisbane and Canberra in September 2024.
For more information about the EV transition inquiry and future hearings, interested parties were directed to visit the Committee's website: Inquiry into the transition to electric vehicles – Parliament of Australia (aph.gov.au)