Reducing transport emissions by upgrading the ACT motor vehicle registration system

Reaching our goal of a zero emissions fleet by 2035.

The current weight-based vehicle registration system will transition to an emissions-based system. This is part of the ACT Government’s commitment to reduce light vehicle emissions.

Stage one will begin 1 July 2023. This will see 96 per cent of all private passenger vehicle owners pay the same or less registration.

Motor vehicle registration concessions will also expand to support Canberra motorists.

Why is it changing?

Transport currently makes up more than 60% emissions in the ACT. This makes it the single largest contributor to the ACT’s greenhouse gas emissions.

The existing weight-based registration scheme imposes higher registration fees for heavier vehicles. Some heavier but lower emitting vehicles, like electric vehicles, are being penalised. Updating to an emissions-based registration system means Canberrans will be able to access lower fees for lower emissions across any motor type.

Concessions and support

Concessions are available for:

• ACT Service Access card holders
• Australian Low Income Health Care card holders are available.

Eligible card holders will receive a 100 per cent concession on motor vehicle registration from 1 July 2023 onwards.

New and used Zero Emissions Vehicles

The two-year free registration for new and used zero emissions vehicles is finishing up on 25 May 2023. They will transition to the lowest fee category.

Remaining light vehicles will transition to the new emissions‐based system on 1 July 2024.

Plug-in hybrid and hybrids

From 1 July 2023, new and used plug‐in hybrid (PHEVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) will receive 12-months of registration discounts.

Passenger vehicles may also be eligible for stamp duty waivers.

You can stay up to date with information and concessions by visiting the Access Canberra motor vehicle registration page.