Motor Vehicle Registration Charges as a Means for Improving Fuel Efficiency

Abstract

The provisions of the recent Kyoto Protocol to the Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Energy Charter Treaty require Australia and other contracting States to take appropriate measures to enhance energy efficiency in the relevant sectors of the national economy. Motor vehicle fuel efficiency is one of the key areas that needs to be addressed if the terms of these international obligations are to be fulfilled. This article examines the poor environmental record of Australia in this regard and highlights the need for domestic law reform. It focuses on the significant contribution that could be made by suitable reforms to the current system of motor vehicle registration charges.