Australia and New Zealand will benefit from cheaper electricity, cleaner energy and more affordable electric vehicles (EVs) thanks to a new trans-Tasman deal.
Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen and Treasurer Jim Chalmers visited New Zealand this week to strengthen trans-Tasman collaboration and economic cooperation in the transformation to net zero, cleaner cheaper energy and action on climate change.
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Under the agreement, Australia and New Zealand will also use their collective purchasing power to support the supply of cheaper EVs in the domestic market, including in government fleets to help bolster the second-hand market.
“This agreement will mean more electric vehicles, more jobs and more investment in the transformation to cleaner, cheaper energy in both nations,” Dr Chalmers said.
“It’s a big step forward in our strategy to ensure Australian industry and Australian workers are best placed to benefit from growing demand for cleaner, cheaper energy and the opportunities that will create.”
“Australia and New Zealand have a long history of collaboration, but now is the time to extend that cooperation to issues affecting the Pacific region, including urgent action on climate change,” Minister Bowen said.
“Partnering with our closest neighbours will help us to seize the economic opportunities to collaborate on cheaper, cleaner energy and climate action as the world accelerates towards net zero.
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“Climate change is the single greatest threat to our Pacific family, and longstanding leadership on the international stage continues to be critical.
“Now that Australia is back at the table, we are working with our Pacific partners to help the region cut emissions in this critical decade and ensure no-one is left behind.”
