VACC Responds to DRIVEN Program Consultation.
The Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) has submitted its response to the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) regarding the Dealership and Repair Initiative for Vehicle Electrification Nationally (DRIVEN) Program.
Key points from our submission:
• Focused funding: VACC strongly recommends that DRIVEN Program funds be allocated exclusively to Australian automotive retail businesses to support their EV transition.
• Industry-specific applicants: We urge the government to limit program applicants to those with proven automotive retail industry credentials to prevent the misallocation of funds.
• Fair competition: VACC suggests ACCC oversight to ensure compliance with the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, promoting transparency and preventing anti-competitive behaviour.
• Recognising early adopters: We advocate for prioritising businesses that have already invested in EV infrastructure, rewarding their foresight and commitment.
• Equitable distribution: VACC seeks equal consideration for all aftermarket service and repair operators, not just franchise-based systems, in fund allocation.
• Merit-based criteria: We recommend prioritising applicants who have undertaken EV training and adopted relevant Australian Standards.
VACC is committed to ensuring a fair, transparent, and effective transition to EVs that benefits the entire automotive retail sector.
We look forward to working with the government and industry partners to achieve this goal.
We would also like to acknowledge the collaborative efforts of the Australian Australian Automotive Dealer Association (AADA) Dealers Association (AADA), Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA) and the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) in working with the government to transition our national car fleet to electric vehicles.
Download submission here