MICK Gentleamen is encouraging the community to take advantage of cheaper stamp duty for new motorcycles and scooters, which will come into effect on 1 July 2016.

“Motorcycling is becoming an increasingly popular means of commuting and this initiative will make it more affordable for those in the community who want to embrace this way of travelling,” Mick said.

“In 2015 the government introduced the Vehicle Emission Reduction Scheme to reward consumers who purchase low emission vehicles, but didn’t include motorcycles or scooters.

“The Vehicle Emission Reduction Scheme provides an incentive for the purchase of low emission vehicles and a disincentive against the purchase of vehicles with poor environmental performance.

“Following the introduction of the Vehicle Emission Reduction Scheme, there was feedback from the community that it should include motorcycles and scooters.

“We recognise that motorcycles and scooters can offer significant environmental benefits and their emissions compare very favourably with cars. As a result all new motorcycles and scooters will soon pay less duty on the purchase price.

Motorcycle enthusiast and MLA Jayson Hinder also supports of the changes,

“Encouraging commuters to use motorcycles and scooters is a common-sense initiative. These vehicles are less expensive for commuters, better for the environment, relieve parking pressure, and reduce congestion on our roads.” Jayson said.

“As a motorcycle rider and long-term MRA member I’ve been advocating for reforms that encourage motorcycle use since I came to the Assembly and I’m glad that the Government has been receptive to new ideas in this area.”

“Once the changes come into effect new motorcycles and scooters will pay duty equivalent to category ‘B’ of the Vehicle Emission Reduction Scheme,” Mick said.

“The new duty rate will be available on all motorcycle and scooter purchases after 1 July, provided it is purchased new in Canberra.

“This is part of an ongoing suite of initiatives designed to get commuters out of the car and reduce congestion on our roads, improve parking efficiency and help create a sustainable city, where the community to use a mixture of modes in their daily commutes to work, school or play,” Minister Gentleman Concluded.

The ACT Government will continue to liaise with the motorcycle industry on the upcoming changes to transition to the new scheme.

More information about the Vehicle Emission Reduction Scheme, including the applicable duty rates can be found on the Access Canberra website www.act.gov.au/accessCBR.