Tim Storer (SA, Independent) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

As chair of the Select Committee on Electric Vehicles, it's my great pleasure to report to the Senate on the outcome of this important inquiry, and I move:

That the Senate take note of the report.

The seven-month inquiry held five public hearings, received 137 submissions and heard from 85 witnesses. It produced a consensus report, which was tabled on 30 January. It included 17 recommendations designed to help accelerate Australia's EV uptake and take advantage of the substantial opportunities the EV transformation presents.

I would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who contributed to the inquiry, including all of those who provided submissions, appeared as witnesses and hosted the committee on site visits. Special thanks to my fellow senators and our staff, and to our secretariat, led by Ann Palmer, who worked tirelessly to deliver this report.

With the right leadership, Australia can truly capitalise on the global EV transformation, delivering benefits to the economy, the environment, motorists and public health. As a first step, I call on the government to move swiftly to implement the consensus recommendations of this inquiry agreed to by senators from the coalition, ALP and Australian Greens. I seek leave to continue my remarks later.

Leave granted; debate adjourned.