We’re working to decarbonise our freight sector as part of the Victorian Freight Plan.
The $8 million Victorian Freight Decarbonisation Co-Investment Program aims to help the freight industry reduce emissions, with grants of up to $300,000. available.
Small to medium freight operators who move goods by road or rail can apply for a grant. To be eligible applicants must:
hold an Australian Business Number (ABN) since 30 June 2022
employ 200 or fewer full-time equivalent employees
be registered and operating in Victoria
be financially viable and not insolvent, with no directors who are undischarged bankrupts
Typical eligible businesses (not exclusive)
road and rail freight transport operators
freight forwarding and logistics providers
courier and delivery businesses
waste and bulk transport operators
Eligible projects
To be eligible for funding, projects must support the shift to zero and low‑emissions freight vehicles and cleaner technologies. Eligible activities include:
buying or leasing low or zero‑emission freight vehicles
fit‑outs /retrofits that customise a new vehicle for its freight task (e.g. refrigerated bodies, tail‑lifts, specialised equipment)
installing charging or refueling infrastructure (e.g. electric chargers, depot upgrades)
the cost of charging or refueling new low or zero‑emissions vehicles
adopting low‑carbon liquid fuels such as renewable diesel or biodiesel
trying new technologies or innovative business ideas that reduce emissions
other proposals that contribute to program objectives which support reducing emissions
Available funding
Applications must meet all project milestones within 18 months of contract signing.
Maximum grant amount: $300,000 (ex GST)
Minimum co‑contribution: 1:5 For example, applicants can request a grant of $300,000 (excluding GST) only if they co-contribute a minimum of $60,000 (excluding GST) towards their project.
Co‑contributions must be cash (not in‑kind)
Government funding from another program cannot be used as the co‑contribution
Program purpose
We’re offering grants to help the freight industry transition to zero and low-emissions vehicles.
The short-term objectives of the program are to:
support the land freight industry to decarbonise
gather insights on the opportunities and challenges transport operators face in reducing emissions
promote the adoption of emerging technologies and build industry capability.
The longer-term outcomes of the program are to:
reduce emissions from freight transport
encourage small and medium-sized operators to adopt low and or zero-emission freight vehicles
enhance understanding of the opportunities and challenges in using these vehicles in the freight industry
boost long-term productivity by supporting next‑generation vehicles and infrastructure, while reducing operating costs.
Improve community amenity with cleaner air, quieter streets, and more pleasant neighbourhoods along freight routes.
Key application dates
The program is targeting the following dates:
Expression of Interest open: 8.30am, 23 March 2026
Expression of Interest close: 4pm, 22 April 2026
Expression of Interest assessments: April-May 2026
Applications open (by invite only): June 2026
Applications close: June-July 2026
Application assessments: June-August 2026
Notification of application outcomes: October 2026
Projects must complete their funded milestones within 18 months of signing the grant agreement.
Extensions, such as for infrastructure projects, will be at the discretion of the Department of Transport and Planning.
Application process
The program has a two-stage application process:
Expression of Interest (EOI)
Application (by invitation only)
To be considered for funding, you must submit an EOI. The EOI collects basic business information and a brief description of your proposed project.
The EOI will ask for:
ABN and, if applicable, either Australian Company Number (ACN) or Incorporation Association Number (IAN) of the legal entity employing the applicant
confirmation of a WorkSafe Certificate of Currency, if applicable
confirmation of your ability to provide 3 years of audited financial statements for your business
pertinent information regarding details of your business, including employee numbers, number of freight vehicles, and annual turnover
information regarding the nature and expected timeline of your project
information regarding the amount of funds you are requesting and your level of co-contribution
Application assessment
EOIs and applications are assessed based on business eligibility, alignment with the goal of reducing freight emissions, and the applicant’s ability to deliver the project on time.
Invited applications are scored on project alignment, design, delivery capability, and financial viability, with final decisions made by the Minister for Ports and Freight.
Projects with greater emissions reductions, shared‑use infrastructure, or stronger co‑contributions may be prioritised.
What is the Victorian Freight Decarbonisation Co-Investment Program?
The Victorian Freight Decarbonisation Co-Investment Program supports small and medium freight operators in transitioning to low and zero-emission vehicles.
Funded through Victoria Delivers: Victorian Freight Plan 2025–2030, the program provides $8 million over two years through a co-investment model to help industry:
transition to low or zero-emission freight vehicles
address uncertainty around vehicle range, charging infrastructure and whole-of-life costs
trial new technologies and business models
build industry knowledge about freight decarbonisation
Only shortlisted applicants will be invited to submit a full application.
How long do funded projects have to be completed?
Projects must be completed within 18 months of executing the grant agreement.
Extensions may be negotiated (for example, infrastructure projects) at the discretion of the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP).
What are the Program objectives?
Short-term objectives
Support the land freight industry to decarbonise
Collect and share insights on opportunities and challenges in transitioning
Long-term outcomes
Increase adoption of zero-emission freight vehicles
Improve industry understanding of decarbonisation
Reduce freight emissions across Victoria
Strengthen innovation in freight operations
Do I need to wait until the grant agreement is signed before starting my project?
Yes. Projects must not begin until a grant agreement has been signed by both the successful applicant and the Victorian Government. Any work started before the grant agreement is signed will not be funded.
Can I submit more than one EOI?
Businesses may submit more than one EOI. Each project will be assessed separately and must independently meet eligibility and co‑contribution requirements. While they can submit two separate EOIs (e.g. one for EV and one for dual fuel), they can only be successful with one.
Can I partner with another business on a project?
Yes. Partnerships or consortia are allowed, but one eligible Victorian Freight Operator must be the lead applicant and enter into the grant agreement.
Are second‑hand vehicles eligible?
Second‑hand low or zero‑emissions vehicles may be eligible if they meet Australian Design Rules, have a Victorian garage address, and meet the program’s commercial‑use requirements.
Can infrastructure be installed at a rented site?
Yes, as long as the applicant can demonstrate the right to use the site for the duration of the project (e.g., lease agreement or owner consent).
Are light commercial vehicles eligible?
Light vehicles (less than 4.5 tonnes Gross Vehicle Mass) may be eligible if they are used for commercial freight operations and meet low‑ or zero‑emissions criteria.
Do I need to obtain applicable permits before I apply?
It is recommended that the applicant obtain necessary permits before submitting a formal application.
Is solar generation or battery storage eligible?
Projects that directly support charging low‑ or zero‑emission freight vehicles may be eligible if they form part of a broader decarbonisation project.
Do I need to share data with the Victorian Government?
Yes. Successful applicants must participate in monitoring and evaluation activities, including providing project data and completing surveys to help assess program outcomes.
How will charging or refuelling costs be verified?
Applicants must track and report eligible charging or refuelling costs and may be asked to provide invoices, meter data, or fuel records as part of project reporting.
If I lease a vehicle, who must hold the lease?
The applicant's business must hold the lease directly. Sub‑leases or vehicles leased by third parties are not ineligible.
Can I apply if my business uses subcontractors?
Yes — as long as your business is the freight operator, you can apply for the grant. Brokers applying on behalf of subcontractors are not eligible.
Is ongoing maintenance covered?
No. Routine operating or maintenance costs are not eligible for funding.
What happens if my project is delayed?
Extensions may be considered for infrastructure‑related delays, but only by negotiation with the Department of Transport and Planning. Extensions are not guaranteed.
My businesses financial statements are not audited, what can I submit instead?
If audited financial reports are not available, financial statements must be prepared by a registered accountant listed with the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB).
My primary business is not land freight transport, can I apply?
Businesses whose primary activity is not freight may apply if they are substantially involved in road and/or rail freight transport activities, either directly or through their operations.
Application process
What are the key dates for the program?
applications open (by invitation only): 10am, Monday 1 June 2026
applications close: 4pm, Monday 6 July 2026
application assessments: July–September 2026
notification of outcomes: October 2026
contracting: From October 2026
project commencement: From November 2026
latest possible project completion: 30 June 2028*
*Unless negotiated with and at the discretion of the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP)
Who do I contact to discuss the application process and requirements for my application?
For technical support (e.g., Expression of Interest or Application portal issues), please email vic.freight@grants.vic.gov.au
How can I submit an application?
Applications must be submitted via the DJSIR Grants Portal.
Applications close at 4pm, Monday 6 July 2026.
Late applications will not be accepted.
Can I apply using a different ABN or on behalf of another business?
No, only businesses invited to apply can submit an application.
Can I partner with another business on a project?
Yes. Partnerships or consortia are allowed, but one eligible Victorian freight operator must be the lead applicant and enter into the grant agreement.
The lead applicant should be the same as the one who submitted the Expression of Interest.
Can I apply if my business uses subcontractors?
Yes. A freight operator business that uses subcontractors is eligible to apply for the grant.
Brokers applying on behalf of subcontractors are not eligible.
Does receiving a successful Expression of Interest guarantee a successful outcome for the application?
No. Applicants with a successful Expression of Interest outcome will be invited to submit a formal application.
The application will be assessed against the assessment criteria as shown in section 4.2.1 of the program guidelines and awarded funding through a competitive merit-based process.
What project documentation do I need to submit with my application?
The documentation required depends on the type of project being delivered.
evidence of cash co-contribution funding (mandatory)
WorkCover Certificate of Currency (mandatory, if applicable)
vehicle registration for existing vehicles to be replaced
evidence of land ownership/tenure where the project activity will occur and/or the home garage site for heavy vehicles (mandatory)
project plan (mandatory for equipment and infrastructure projects)
other project documentation such as project plans, schematics, permit applications (as required)
Further information can be found in section 4.1.1 of the Program Guidelines.
What financial documents do I need to include with my application?
Audited Financial Reports for the past three financial years (2022-23, 2023-24 and 2024-25 financial years), including
profit and loss statement
balance sheet(s)
cash flow statement
Directors’ Report and Declaration
notes to the accounts (if applicable)
where the audited or accountant-prepared financials for the most recent reporting period is more than 6 months, the following are required:
profit and loss statement and a balance sheet
in case of public listed corporations, half-yearly financial report
[optional] Profit & Loss and Cashflow Projections, using the supplied template, to be prepared or verified by an Accountant for the following periods:
1 July 2025 – 30 June 2026
1 July 2026 – 30 June 2027
1 July 2027 – 30 June 2028 Or
1 January 2026 – 31 December 2026
1 January 2027 – 31 December 2027
1 January 2028 – 31 December 2028
Note:
If audited financial reports are not available, financial statements must be prepared by a registered accountant listed with the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB). Applicants will be contacted directly and advised of the specific requirements
Comparative figures embedded within another final report are not accepted.
What is an audited financial statement?
An audit is a detailed process that provides a high level of assurance to the users of financial reports.
The objective of an audit of a financial report is to enable the auditor to express an opinion whether the financial report is prepared, in all material respects, in accordance with an applicable financial reporting framework.
An auditor is required to conduct audit procedures in accordance with the auditing standards to detect material misstatements and to carry out specific procedures to reduce fraud risk.
The requirement for financial statements to be audited depends on the size and type of your business.
My business’s financial statements are not audited. What do I submit instead?
If audited financial reports are not available, financial statements must be prepared by a registered accountant listed with the Tax Practitioners Board public register.
Where can I find my Certificate of Currency for WorkSafe?
You can request a certificate as evidence that you or another business has current WorkCover insurance.
For more information, please visit the WorkSafe Victoria website.
How should I name the files to be attached to my application?
Please ensure all files are named using the following format: Document Type - Year or date period - Business Name
For example: Financial Report - 2022-23 - Business Name WorkCover Certificate - 1.8.2025-1.8.2026 - Business Name
I have a document that exceeds the 5MB limit in the application form. How do I submit the attachment?
Can I apply for a different project than the one I submitted in the Expression of Interest?
Significant changes to the applicant may impact the success of your application. It’s expected that regardless of the purchases and activities as part of your project, the project outcomes will remain the same.
It’s recommended that you discuss any major changes with DTP before submitting an application.
Do I need quotes from suppliers before I submit the application?
It’s recommended but not mandatory that you provide quotes from suppliers. Projects with supplier quotes demonstrating project readiness will be prioritised.
Do I need to obtain permits before submitting my application?
It’s recommended that the applicant obtain necessary permits before submitting a formal application. It’s the applicant’s responsibility to ensure they have obtained all necessary permits.
Project eligibility
Are second hand vehicles eligible?
Second hand low or zero emissions vehicles may be eligible if they meet Australian Design Rules, have a Victorian garage address, and meet the program’s commercial use requirements.
Can infrastructure be installed at a rented site?
Yes. The applicant will be required to demonstrate the right to use the site for the duration of the project (e.g. lease agreement and owner consent).
Are light commercial vehicles eligible?
Light vehicles (with a Gross Vehicle Mass of less than 4.5 tonnes) may be eligible if they are used for commercial freight operations and meet the low or zero-emissions criteria.
Are solar generation or battery storage eligible?
Yes, if they form part of a broader decarbonisation project, projects that directly support the charging of low or zero-emission freight vehicles may be eligible.
If I lease a vehicle, who must hold the lease?
The applicant's business must hold the lease directly. Sub leases or vehicles leased by third parties are not ineligible.
Is ongoing maintenance covered?
No. Routine operating or maintenance costs are not eligible for funding.
Assessment process and outcomes
How can I check the status of my application?
Your application status is located on the home page of the DJSIR Grants Portal. You will need to log in to access the Grants portal dashboard.
Application outcomes are expected to be provided in October 2026. Any changes to this timeframe will be communicated to applicants.
How will the application be assessed?
Applications will be reviewed against the assessment criteria and undergo due diligence checks, including financial risk assessments.
Eligible applications will be assessed by an assessment panel composed of department staff. Applications will be scored against the assessment criteria to rank projects.
Assessment criteria
Criteria
Applicant eligibility
The applicant is an eligible entity that includes:
be a small to medium-sized land freight transport operator involved in the movement of goods by road or rail, using trucks, trains or other specialised vehicles
hold an Australian Business Number (ABN), and have held that ABN since 30 June 2022
employ 200 full-time equivalent or fewer employees
not been declared insolvent or have owners/directors that are an undischarged bankrupt
be registered and operate in Victoria
Project eligibility
The project is an eligible activity and expenses as per the ‘Eligible Projects’section of these guidelines
Location eligibility
The project will be delivered in Victoria
Financial eligibility
The applicant's business meets the minimum standards of viability and solvency, and
Has not been declared insolvent or has owners/directors that are an undischarged bankrupt
Evidence confirming co-contribution sources
Evidence confirming co-contribution funding sources that demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the DTP, that the applicant has or will have sufficient funds available for the required co-contribution amount for the project.
Who can enter into a grant agreement on behalf of my business?
A person (or persons) who has the authority to enter into an agreement.
The number of signatories will depend on the type of business. Requirements will be communicated to successful grant recipients during contract negotiations.
Do I need to wait for the grant agreement to be signed before starting my project?
Yes. Projects must not begin until a grant agreement has been signed by both the successful applicant and the Victorian Government.
Any work started before the grant agreement is executed will not be funded.
What should I do if my project is delayed?
Extensions may be considered for infrastructure related delays, but only by negotiation with DTP. Extensions are not guaranteed.
Reporting requirements
What reporting will be required if my application is approved?
The following reports will be a mandatory requirement
Share project data
Track costs, such as for fuel, charging
Participate in evaluation activities
Specific reporting requirements will be set out in the funding agreement.
Do I need to share my data with the Victorian Government?
Yes. Successful applicants must participate in monitoring and evaluation activities, including providing project data and completing surveys to help assess program outcomes.
applications open (by invitation only): 10am, Monday 1 June 2026
applications close: 4pm, Monday 6 July 2026
application assessments: July–September 2026
notification of outcomes: October 2026
contracting: From October 2026
project commencement: From November 2026
latest possible project completion: 30 June 2028*
*Unless negotiated with and at the discretion of the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP)
Who do I contact to discuss the application process and requirements for my application?
For technical support (e.g., Expression of Interest or Application portal issues), please email vic.freight@grants.vic.gov.au
What is the maximum amount of funding I can request?
Applicants can request grant funding of up to $300,000 (excluding GST).
What is the minimum required cash co-contribution?
The minimum funding ratio between the applicant's co-contribution and the government grant is 1:5.
For example, applicants can request a grant of $300,000 (excluding GST) only if they are prepared to co-contribute at least $60,000 (excluding GST) towards their project.
In-kind contributions cannot form part of the required co-contribution. An in-kind contribution is a contribution of a good or a service other than cash.
Funds from other local, state and Federal Government programs cannot be included in applicants’ co-contributions.
How can I submit an application?
Applications must be submitted via the DJSIR Grants Portal.
Applications close at 4pm, Monday 6 July 2026.
Late applications will not be accepted.
Can I apply using a different ABN or on behalf of another business?
No, only businesses invited to apply can submit an application.
Can I partner with another business on a project?
Yes. Partnerships or consortia are allowed, but one eligible Victorian freight operator must be the lead applicant and enter into the grant agreement.
The lead applicant should be the same as the one who submitted the Expression of Interest.
Can I apply if my business uses subcontractors?
Yes. A freight operator business that uses subcontractors is eligible to apply for the grant.
Brokers applying on behalf of subcontractors are not eligible.
Does receiving a successful Expression of Interest guarantee a successful outcome for the application?
No. Applicants with a successful Expression of Interest outcome will be invited to submit a formal application.
The application will be assessed against the assessment criteria as shown in section 4.2.1 of the program guidelines and awarded funding through a competitive merit-based process.
What project documentation do I need to submit with my application?
The documentation required depends on the type of project being delivered.
evidence of cash co-contribution funding (mandatory)
WorkCover Certificate of Currency (mandatory, if applicable)
vehicle registration for existing vehicles to be replaced
evidence of land ownership/tenure where the project activity will occur and/or the home garage site for heavy vehicles (mandatory)
project plan (mandatory for equipment and infrastructure projects)
other project documentation such as project plans, schematics, permit applications (as required)
Further information can be found in section 4.1.1 of the Program Guidelines.
What financial documents do I need to include with my application?
Audited Financial Reports for the past three financial years (2022-23, 2023-24 and 2024-25 financial years), including:
profit and loss statement
balance sheet(s)
cash flow statement
Directors’ Report and Declaration
notes to the accounts (if applicable)
where the audited or accountant-prepared financials for the most recent reporting period is more than 6 months, the following are required:
profit and loss statement and a balance sheet
in case of public listed corporations, half-yearly financial report
[optional] Profit & Loss and Cashflow Projections, using the supplied template, to be prepared or verified by an Accountant for the following periods:
1 July 2025 – 30 June 2026
1 July 2026 – 30 June 2027
1 July 2027 – 30 June 2028 Or
1 January 2026 – 31 December 2026
1 January 2027 – 31 December 2027
1 January 2028 – 31 December 2028
Note:
If audited financial reports are not available, financial statements must be prepared by a registered accountant listed with the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB). Applicants will be contacted directly and advised of the specific requirements
Comparative figures embedded within another final report are not accepted.
What is an audited financial statement?
An audit is a detailed process that provides a high level of assurance to the users of financial reports.
The objective of an audit of a financial report is to enable the auditor to express an opinion whether the financial report is prepared, in all material respects, in accordance with an applicable financial reporting framework.
An auditor is required to conduct audit procedures in accordance with the auditing standards to detect material misstatements and to carry out specific procedures to reduce fraud risk.
The requirement for financial statements to be audited depends on the size and type of your business.
My business’s financial statements are not audited. What do I submit instead?
If audited financial reports are not available, financial statements must be prepared by a registered accountant listed with the Tax Practitioners Board public register.
Where can I find my Certificate of Currency for WorkSafe?
You can request a certificate as evidence that you or another business has current WorkCover insurance.
For more information, please visit the WorkSafe Victoria website.
How should I name the files to be attached to my application?
Please ensure all files are named using the following format: Document Type - Year or date period - Business Name
For example: Financial Report - 2022-23 - Business Name WorkCover Certificate - 1.8.2025-1.8.2026 - Business Name
I have a document that exceeds the 5MB limit in the application form. How do I submit the attachment?
Can I apply for a different project than the one I submitted in the Expression of Interest?
Significant changes to the applicant may impact the success of your application. It’s expected that regardless of the purchases and activities as part of your project, the project outcomes will remain the same.
It’s recommended that you discuss any major changes with DTP before submitting an application.
Do I need quotes from suppliers before I submit the application?
It’s recommended but not mandatory that you provide quotes from suppliers. Projects with supplier quotes demonstrating project readiness will be prioritised.
Do I need to obtain permits before submitting my application?
It’s recommended that the applicant obtain necessary permits before submitting a formal application. It’s the applicant’s responsibility to ensure they have obtained all necessary permits.
Project eligibility
Are second hand vehicles eligible?
Second hand low or zero emissions vehicles may be eligible if they meet Australian Design Rules, have a Victorian garage address, and meet the program’s commercial use requirements.
Can infrastructure be installed at a rented site?
Yes. The applicant will be required to demonstrate the right to use the site for the duration of the project (e.g. lease agreement and owner consent).
Are light commercial vehicles eligible?
Light vehicles (with a Gross Vehicle Mass of less than 4.5 tonnes) may be eligible if they are used for commercial freight operations and meet the low or zero-emissions criteria.
Are solar generation or battery storage eligible?
Yes, if they form part of a broader decarbonisation project, projects that directly support the charging of low or zero-emission freight vehicles may be eligible.
If I lease a vehicle, who must hold the lease?
The applicant's business must hold the lease directly. Sub leases or vehicles leased by third parties are not ineligible.
Is ongoing maintenance covered?
No. Routine operating or maintenance costs are not eligible for funding.
Assessment process and outcomes
How can I check the status of my application?
Your application status is located on the home page of the DJSIR Grants Portal. You will need to log in to access the Grants portal dashboard.
Application outcomes are expected to be provided in October 2026. Any changes to this timeframe will be communicated to applicants.
How will the application be assessed?
Applications will be reviewed against the assessment criteria and undergo due diligence checks, including financial risk assessments.
Eligible applications will be assessed by an assessment panel composed of department staff. Applications will be scored against the assessment criteria to rank projects.
Assessment criteria
Criteria
Applicant eligibility
The applicant is an eligible entity that includes:
be a small to medium-sized land freight transport operator involved in the movement of goods by road or rail, using trucks, trains or other specialised vehicles
hold an Australian Business Number (ABN), and have held that ABN since 30 June 2022
employ 200 full-time equivalent or fewer employees
not been declared insolvent or have owners/directors that are an undischarged bankrupt
be registered and operate in Victoria
Project eligibility
The project is an eligible activity and expenses as per the ‘Eligible Projects’section of these guidelines
Location eligibility
The project will be delivered in Victoria
Financial eligibility
The applicant's business meets the minimum standards of viability and solvency, and
Has not been declared insolvent or has owners/directors that are an undischarged bankrupt
Evidence confirming co-contribution sources
Evidence confirming co-contribution funding sources that demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the DTP, that the applicant has or will have sufficient funds available for the required co-contribution amount for the project.
Who can enter into a grant agreement on behalf of my business?
A person (or persons) who has the authority to enter into an agreement.
The number of signatories will depend on the type of business. Requirements will be communicated to successful grant recipients during contract negotiations.
Do I need to wait for the grant agreement to be signed before starting my project?
Yes. Projects must not begin until a grant agreement has been signed by both the successful applicant and the Victorian Government.
Any work started before the grant agreement is executed will not be funded.
What should I do if my project is delayed?
Extensions may be considered for infrastructure related delays, but only by negotiation with DTP. Extensions are not guaranteed.
Reporting requirements
What reporting will be required if my application is approved?
The following reports will be a mandatory requirement
Share project data
Track costs, such as for fuel, charging
Participate in evaluation activities
Specific reporting requirements will be set out in the funding agreement.
Do I need to share my data with the Victorian Government?
Yes. Successful applicants must participate in monitoring and evaluation activities, including providing project data and completing surveys to help assess program outcomes.