07 May 2026
MTA NSW Group Welcomes EV Policy Stability and Calls for Federal Action to Support Small Business
The MTA NSW Group, representing the Motor Traders’ Association of NSW (MTA NSW) and the Motor Trades Association of ACT (MTA ACT), has welcomed the Federal Government’s decision to implement a phased approach to the Electric Car Discount (ECD)
The extension of the current FBT exemption until March 2027 is to be complimented, as it provides a vital window of certainty for the automotive industry.
MTA NSW Group CEO, Mr Stavros Yallouridis, said by avoiding an abrupt end to incentives the Government is allowing the sector to maintain its momentum in the transition toward a low-emissions fleet, while providing businesses the necessary time to adapt their operations.
Stavros Yallouridis, MTA NSW Group CEO
“The decision to phase these changes is a practical win for the industry. It provides a clear roadmap that allows our members across NSW and the ACT to plan for the future without the threat of sudden market volatility,” Mr Yallouridis said.
However, the MTA NSW Group warns that the success of the EV transition is being hampered by the rising financial burden on small automotive businesses. While vehicle incentives support demand, the "service-side" of the transition remains a significant challenge for independent workshops operating on increasingly tight margins.
Stavros Yallouridis, MTA NSW Group CEO
“It is one thing to incentivise the purchase of an electric vehicle, but it is another to ensure there is a local workshop capable of repairing it safely. For many of our small business members, the cost of the transition—including high-voltage tooling, specialised safety equipment, and the time away from the tools for staff training—is a major hurdle.
This pressure is exacerbated by the recent reduction in the Federal apprenticeship incentive program. This cut acts as a direct inhibitor to growth, making it harder for small businesses to justify the investment in new talent, at a time when technical complexity is skyrocketing. We are calling on the Federal Government to do more to support the training pipeline and ease the financial strain on these essential service providers.” Mr Yallouridis said.
The MTA NSW Group highlights the NSW Electric Vehicle Strategy as a successful template that the Federal Government should adopt, particularly in its focus on regional small businesses — an area MTA NSW Group has consistently advocated for, including in its budget submissions. The NSW strategy commits to delivering targeted training and infrastructure support in regional areas and ensures the transition is not just a metropolitan success story.
Stavros Yallouridis, MTA NSW Group CEO
“Regional small businesses face unique challenges, including limited access to training providers and higher costs of doing business. The NSW Government’s proactive approach to regional upskilling is exactly what we need at a national level. The Federal Government must ensure that regional technicians are not left behind as the fleet evolves.
The goal is a seamless transition for all Australians. To achieve that, the Federal Government must match its vehicle incentives with a robust commitment to training and practical support for the small businesses that keep Australia moving.” Mr Yallouridis said.