Coalition to Scrap NVES Penalties, Gains Hanson Support

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has announced that if the Coalition wins the upcoming election, they will maintain but not enforce penalties under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), which aims to reduce car emissions and encourage electric vehicle adoption. The NVES, set to take effect in July, imposes emissions targets with financial penalties for non-compliance, a measure supported by automotive companies to align with global standards. This decision comes in response to industry concerns about potential price increases for popular vehicles and the public's hesitancy to transition fully to electric vehicles. Critics argue that eliminating penalties undermines the incentive for car manufacturers to produce more fuel-efficient vehicles, though Dutton contends that the policy is an undue tax on families and small businesses. The Coalition's plan to scrap these penalties is part of a broader rollback of Labor's climate policies, drawing mixed reactions across the political spectrum. Pauline Hanson has expressed support for Dutton and criticized the current government for its lack of cooperation.