The Bottom Line: Yes, BYD cars are absolutely eligible for Australian EV rebates in 2025! With new Essential models starting from just $29,990, BYD offers Australia’s most affordable electric vehicles that qualify for various state and federal incentives.
What Makes BYD Cars Special in Australia’s EV Market?
BYD has revolutionized Australia’s electric vehicle landscape by launching the country’s first sub-$30,000 EV with the Dolphin Essential at $29,990 before on-road costs. This Chinese automaker isn’t just competing—they’re dominating the affordable EV space.
The 2025 lineup includes refreshed Dolphin and Atto 3 models with new Essential variants that slash thousands off previous pricing while maintaining impressive range capabilities. These aren’t stripped-down versions—they’re smart compromises that keep the important tech while cutting unnecessary luxuries.
BYD Models Eligible for 2025 Rebates
BYD Dolphin Essential – Australia’s Cheapest EV
Starting at $29,990 before on-road costs, the Dolphin Essential delivers 340km WLTP range from its 44.9kWh battery. It beats every competitor in the budget EV space.
What you sacrifice for the lower price includes the panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charging, heated seats, and power-folding mirrors. The important stuff stays—including the 5-star ANCAP safety rating and BYD’s reliable Blade battery technology.
BYD Atto 3 Essential – Family-Friendly SUV
The Atto 3 Essential starts from $39,990 before on-road costs, featuring a 49.9kWh battery with 345km WLTP range. This makes it Australia’s most affordable electric SUV after the MG ZS EV left the market.
Families get legitimate five-seat SUV space with proper cargo capacity. The Essential trim removes some premium features but keeps the core functionality that makes the Atto 3 so popular with Australian buyers.
State-by-State Rebate Guide for BYD Cars
Queensland – The EV Rebate Champion
Queensland offers the most generous rebates with up to $6,000 for new EVs priced under $68,000, available to households earning less than $180,000 annually. Both BYD models qualify for the full rebate amount.
In Queensland, a BYD Atto 3 can cost as little as $43,633 after the $6,000 rebate and $72 registration discount. That’s incredible value for a brand-new electric SUV.
Western Australia – Solid Savings Available
WA provides a $3,500 rebate for eligible zero-emission vehicles under $70,000, available for the first 10,000 vehicles or until May 10, 2025. Time is running out, so WA buyers should act quickly.
The rebate applies to both BYD Dolphin and Atto 3 models. Combined with federal benefits, WA buyers can achieve substantial savings on their BYD purchase.
New South Wales – Limited Time Offers
The NSW EV rebate closed on December 31, 2023, but buyers who placed deposits before this date can still claim $3,000 rebates even if delivery occurs in 2025. Unfortunately, new applications aren’t accepted.
However, NSW is offering temporary fleet incentive boosts for vehicles with proof of purchase after November 12, 2024. Business buyers should explore these options.
Federal Benefits That Apply to All BYD Models
Fringe Benefits Tax Exemption – The Big Winner
All BYD models under $91,387 qualify for complete FBT exemption when salary packaged, potentially saving thousands annually. This is massive for employees considering novated leases.
The exemption means you pay zero fringe benefits tax on your BYD EV. Combined with GST savings and pre-tax salary packaging, the total savings can be enormous.
Higher Luxury Car Tax Threshold
Electric vehicles enjoy a higher luxury car tax threshold of $89,332 compared to $76,950 for petrol vehicles. All current BYD models sit comfortably below this threshold.
This means no luxury car tax applies to any BYD vehicle, keeping your total purchase price lower.
Important Deadlines and Limitations for 2025
PHEV Benefits Ending Soon
Critical update: Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles will lose FBT exemption from April 1, 2025. This affects the BYD Shark 6 but not the fully electric Dolphin or Atto 3.
Fleet managers and businesses should note this deadline when planning vehicle purchases for 2025.
Registration Exemptions Expiring
South Australia’s 3-year registration exemption is available for vehicles first registered between October 28, 2021, and June 30, 2025. Vehicles registered after July 1, 2025, won’t receive this benefit.
Several states have similar cut-off dates, so timing your purchase becomes crucial for maximizing savings.
Real-World Savings Examples
BYD Dolphin Essential in Queensland
Starting price: $29,990
Queensland rebate: -$6,000
Registration discount: -$72
Final cost: $23,918 (plus on-road costs)
That’s incredible value for a brand-new electric vehicle with 340km range.
BYD Atto 3 Essential in Western Australia
Starting price: $39,990
WA rebate: -$3,500
Final cost: $36,490 (plus on-road costs)
Add federal FBT savings through salary packaging, and the total savings become enormous.
Why BYD Cars Are Perfect for Australian Conditions
Proven Reliability and Safety
All BYD models maintain their 5-star ANCAP safety ratings across the range. Safety isn’t compromised for affordability.
BYD offers an 8-year/160,000km battery warranty and 6-year/150,000km vehicle coverage. That’s serious peace of mind for long-term ownership.
Real-World Range Performance
Australian buyers consistently report meeting or exceeding the official WLTP range figures in real-world driving. The BYD Blade battery technology proves particularly reliable in our climate conditions.
Highway cruising, city commuting, or weekend adventures—these cars handle Australian driving scenarios exceptionally well.
How to Maximize Your BYD Rebate Benefits
Research Your State’s Specific Rules
Eligibility criteria vary significantly between states, with some excluding cars eligible for federal incentives. Check your state’s requirements before making decisions.
Income limits, vehicle price caps, and household restrictions differ dramatically between jurisdictions.
Consider Salary Packaging Options
Novated leasing combined with FBT exemption can result in massive tax savings, often making leasing cheaper than cash purchase. Speak to your HR department about available options.
The combination of GST exemption, pre-tax payments, and FBT savings creates enormous value for eligible employees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all BYD models eligible for rebates?
Yes, the Dolphin and Atto 3 qualify for most state rebates due to their pricing under typical thresholds.
Do I need to earn under a certain amount?
Queensland limits rebates to households earning under $180,000 annually, but other states have different or no income restrictions.
Can I combine state and federal benefits?
Absolutely! State rebates, federal FBT exemption, and GST savings can all be combined for maximum benefit.