zero and low emission vehicle distance-based charge act 2021

The Zero and Low Emission Vehicle Distance‑based Charge Act 2021 (Victoria) introduced a per‑kilometre road‑user charge for EVs and some plug‑in hybrids, tracked via annual odometer readings.

Rates were set in cents per kilometre (roughly 2–2.5c/km), payable to VicRoads, with penalties for not reporting—because nothing says “go green” like paperwork.

In October 2023, Australia’s High Court ruled the scheme invalid as an excise the state couldn’t levy, and the program was effectively canned.

The Victorian Government subsequently announced refunds to affected owners for charges paid under the Act, with processing handled through official channels.

If you owned a ZLEV registered in Victoria during 2021–2023, check your VicRoads/DoT communications about refund eligibility and timing.

Yes, it was controversial; no, you don’t need to keep sending odometer photos for it anymore.