EV benefits in Australia you might not know about

If you own an EV in Australia, there’s more to enjoy than instant torque or the fact that EVs are better for the environment. From slipping past traffic in transit lanes to tapping into free charging offers, there are a few lesser-known perks that can make electric driving even more appealing. Here’s the rundown on EV benefits you might not know about. 

Drive in transit lanes without passengers 

In NSW, electric vehicle drivers can use T2 and T3 transit lanes with no passengers until 30 June 2027, unless the policy is revoked earlier. These lanes are usually reserved for vehicles carrying two or three people, to encourage carpooling and ease congestion. The original cut-off for EV access was set for June 2025, but the state government has extended it by two years. Just make sure your number plate has the little blue EV triangle on it, so traffic cops know you’re using the lane legally. 

For commuters, this can mean shaving minutes off peak-hour journeys and bypassing bottlenecks that slow other drivers. The official rules and updates are available on the NSW Government’s EV strategy page. 

Free or discounted charging from networks, carmakers and partners 

Many carmakers in Australia have teamed up with charging networks to give buyers a period of free or discounted charging. For example, the following carmakers currently offer subscriptions to fast-chargers in the Chargefox network:

• Mercedes Benz - 1 year 
• Audi - 1 year 
• Lexus - 3 year 
• Genesis - 5 years 
• Cadillac - 1 year 

Previous (and possibly current) partnerships with Chargefox have included other luxury brands like Mini, Porsche, BMW, Lexus, and Jaguar – ask at the time of purchase. Some brands also provide free charging at dealerships — for example, Porsche centres offer complimentary charging for owners.  

Some charging networks, including Evie Networks and Tesla Superchargers, offer cheaper rates during off-peak hours. Unlike petrol prices, which stay much the same throughout the day, these off-peak rates can make a noticeable difference to charging costs if you’re flexible about when you plug in. 

ENGIE are also offering a Chargefox voucher for anyone who signs up for their EV Flex Charge plan.

Charge at home for free with EV energy plans 

Several electricity retailers now offer tariffs designed for EV owners, including off-peak charging windows, bill credits or even free overnight charging. These plans often require a compatible home charger and a smart meter to track usage. 

Compared to standard residential electricity rates, these EV-specific plans can dramatically reduce charging costs. Personally, I’ve saved almost $1000 by plugging in at a reduced rate through our household energy plan.  

Fringe benefits for employees and
ESG creds for employees 

The FBT exemption for eligible EVs can make novated leases significantly more affordable, opening up EV access to more salary earners. For businesses, EV fleets can lower running costs and signal a commitment to sustainability. 

While the Productivity Commission has suggested winding back some EV incentives, industry groups like the Electric Vehicle Council have pushed back, arguing that the exemptions are still needed to boost uptake. 

Workplace EV charging perks 

Some Australian companies now provide free or subsidised charging for staff. Large employers like Optus, Origin, Ausgrid, Google and Dan Murphy’s have installed workplace chargers as part of their employee benefits. 

For workers, it’s a convenient way to top up during the day without adding to the household electricity bill. For employers, it can be an attractive perk in competitive job markets and a step towards fleet electrification. There may be tax considerations for providing charging as a benefit, so businesses should check ATO guidance. 

The upshot 

Owning an EV in Australia can quietly open doors to a whole range of perks you might not have factored in when you first started thinking about buying an EV. Some will save you time, others will save you money, and a few might even make your daily drive a bit more enjoyable.  

The bottom line? There’s more to EV ownership than lowering emissions. If you know where to look, the perks can make your daily drive smoother, cheaper and a little more fun.