Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular among Australian drivers due to their eco-friendliness, fuel savings, and government incentives. For ACT government employees, leasing an electric vehicle is now even more attractive, thanks to salary sacrifice programs and tax exemptions. Whether you’re eyeing the Polestar 2 price in Australia or considering the sleek Tesla Y in Australia, this article offers practical tips to help ACT government employees maximise their benefits when leasing an EV.
1. Take Advantage of ACT Government Incentives for EVs
The ACT government offers several incentives to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles, making it easier for employees to lease EVs such as the Tesla Y or Polestar 2.
- No Stamp Duty: EV buyers in the ACT are exempt from paying stamp duty, which can save thousands of dollars.
- Two Years of Free Registration: New electric vehicle leases come with free registration for the first two years.
- Interest-Free Loans: ACT residents can access interest-free loans of up to $15,000 to help with the purchase or lease of an EV.
These incentives make leasing an EV highly appealing, especially through salary sacrifice arrangements available to ACT government employees.
2. Compare Lease Options for the Polestar 2 and Tesla Y
The Polestar 2 and Tesla Y are two top contenders for those looking to lease a premium electric vehicle. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Feature | Polestar 2 | Tesla Y |
| Price | Starts from $63,900 AUD | Starts from $72,300 AUD |
| Range | Up to 540 km | Up to 533 km |
| Performance | Quick acceleration, refined design | Faster acceleration, cutting-edge tech |
| Charging Network | Access to multiple networks | Extensive Tesla Supercharger network |
| Tax Exemptions | Eligible for EV tax incentives | FBT exemptions for government employees |
Both vehicles are eligible for EV incentives, but the choice ultimately depends on personal preferences for design, technology, and driving range.
3. Use Salary Sacrifice to Maximise Savings
ACT government employees can take advantage of salary sacrifice to reduce the cost of leasing an EV. This arrangement allows lease payments to be made from pre-tax income, lowering taxable income and generating significant savings.
Key Benefits of Salary Sacrifice for EV Leasing:
- Tax Savings: Reduce taxable income by bundling car expenses into lease payments.
- FBT Exemptions: Electric vehicles leased through salary sacrifice may qualify for Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) exemptions, particularly the Tesla Y.
- All-Inclusive Payments: Include running costs like registration, insurance, and maintenance in the lease to simplify budgeting.
4. Plan Charging and Maintenance Costs
Leasing an EV means you’ll save on fuel, but it’s essential to plan for charging and maintenance. Both the Polestar 2 and Tesla Y offer lower maintenance costs compared to petrol cars, but here are some tips:
- Home Charging: Install a home charger to make overnight charging more convenient and cost-effective.
- Public Charging Networks: The Tesla Y benefits from Tesla’s Supercharger network, while the Polestar 2 provides access to a variety of public chargers.
- Minimal Servicing: EVs require less maintenance, but ensure you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to keep your lease valid.
5. Use a Lease Calculator for Budget Planning
Before committing to a lease, it’s a good idea to use a lease calculator. This tool helps ACT government employees estimate monthly payments and overall costs, including how much they’ll save with salary packaging.
- Include Tax Savings: A lease calculator can show how salary sacrifice lowers your taxable income.
- Consider Incentives: Factor in the ACT government’s registration and stamp duty exemptions.
- Compare Options: Use the calculator to compare the lease costs of the Polestar 2 and Tesla Y based on your budget.
Conclusion: Maximise Your Benefits with an EV Lease
For ACT government employees, leasing an electric vehicle like the Polestar 2 or Tesla Y offers a smart way to save money while driving a sustainable car. With salary sacrifice programs, tax exemptions, and government incentives, leasing becomes more affordable than ever.
Use a lease calculator to plan your budget, explore available incentives, and enjoy the financial and environmental benefits of an electric vehicle. Whether you choose the sleek design of the Polestar 2 or the cutting-edge technology of the Tesla Y in Australia your decision will help you drive smarter, save more, and reduce your environmental footprint.
