Cheaper rego for Vic tradies

Thousands of trade apprentices who rely on their car to travel to work every day will be hundreds of dollars better off, with the Government extending its registration discount program.

Under the scheme, eligible apprentice tradies can apply for a 50 per cent discount on their vehicle’s registration fee and Transport Accident Charge (TAC).

The Government has expanded the program to include all eligible apprentices who use their vehicle to get to and from work between 8.30pm and 5.30am.

The scheme, established in 2016, was previously only available to apprentices in defined trades who used their vehicles to travel between work sites during work hours.

All apprentices are now able to apply if they drive their vehicle in the course of their apprenticeship, for example to carry the tools of their trade to and from work sites, or if they use their vehicle for travel to and from work between 8.30pm and 5.30am.

Eligible apprentices paying standard registration on a light vehicle in metropolitan Melbourne, will save $408.20 per year, outer metropolitan areas $381.30 and in rural areas $349.95.

“We’re putting money back in the pockets of thousands more Victorian apprentices, helping ease their cost of living pressures,” said Premier Daniel Andrews.

To be eligible for the discount, all apprentices must be registered with the Victorian Registrations Qualification Authority, must use their own car, van or ute and regularly use it in the course of their apprenticeship.

Bricklayers, carpenters, joiners, chefs, hairdressers, electricians and plumbers will be among those eligible for a discount if their employers agree that the use of the vehicle is an essential part of their work.

Eligible apprentices are now able to apply to receive discounted registration. Applications can only be made online via the VicRoads website.