Tuesday, 2 June 2026

 Ingrid STITT (Western Metropolitan – Minister for Government Services, Special Minister of State, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Mental Health, Minister for Multicultural and Multifaith Victoria) (14:19): I rise to update the house on the Allan Labor government’s extremely popular 20 per cent rego rebate, which started yesterday and is already delivering meaningful cost-of-living relief to Victorian families. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has contributed to higher fuel prices, placing additional pressure on household budgets. For many Victorians, owning a car is essential for getting to work, school, medical appointments and community activities. That is why we are providing a 20 per cent rebate on light vehicle registration costs paid for the 2025–26 financial year. Victorians can now claim a rebate for up to two vehicles registered in their name, meaning that for people with one vehicle that is a saving of $186 and for two vehicles that is a rebate of $372. Applications are open through Service Victoria and will remain open until 31 July. The response from the community has been extraordinary. Demand has been exceptionally high, with 677,907 applications received in the first 24 hours alone, demonstrating just how important this support is for Victorian households. The initiative forms part of the government’s broader cost-of-living package alongside half-price public transport fares across Victoria until the end of the year and permanent free transport for children under 18 and seniors on weekends. Whether it is running a car or catching a train, getting around Victoria should not break the bank. While others threaten to cut jobs and services, this side of the house is delivering real, practical solutions that put money back where it belongs: in the pockets of hardworking Victorians.