The Driving the Nation Program is an ongoing program developed to enable the demonstration and deployment of new zero emissions vehicle technologies.
Announced in 2022, the Government’s Driving the Nation Fund provides $500 million to invest in cheaper and cleaner transport. This funding builds on the former ‘Future Fuels Fund’ (established in 2020), targeting support for business fleets, new technologies for heavy and long-distance vehicles, public charging and hydrogen refuelling stations and smart charging.
How it works
The Driving the Nation Program is ongoing and accepting of applications that contribute to the Program objectives and align with the Program Focus Areas. The assessment process involves two stages:
1. Expressions of Interest; and
2. Full Application stage.
2022 Focus Areas – Business Fleets [Open]
Open since February 2022, ARENA have allocated $127.9 million towards the 2022 Focus Areas aiming to accelerate uptake of ZEVs by business fleets. The 2022 Focus Areas comprise:
1. Supporting the integration of battery electric vehicles into light vehicle fleets.
2. Supporting the integration of battery electric vehicles into heavy vehicle fleets.
3. Commercialising hydrogen as a transport fuel.
The 2022 Focus Areas will close to new applications on 19 June 2023.
2023 Focus Areas – Innovation in Charging [Open]
Open since April 2023, ARENA has allocated $70 million towards the 2023 Focus Areas aiming to support innovation in public charging and management of charging.
ARENA are accepting applications under the 2023 Focus Areas.
Information session
ARENA will host a virtual information session on Monday, 8 May 2023 at 4 PM AEST to provide an overview of the 2023 Focus Areas and the Driving the Nation Program, with an opportunity for the public to ask questions. Further details will be provided closer to the event for registered attendees.