Bass Strait Passenger Vehicle Equalisation Scheme Subsidy Changes

Posted 05 May 2021

On 7 January 2021, the Federal Government announced the Bass Strait Passenger Equalisation Scheme (BSPVES) would be temporarily increased to boost passenger vehicle bookings.

BIL is pleased to confirm that between 1 March 2021 and 30 June 2021, light passenger vehicles (large and small) will be transported at no charge to customers, where:

• The vehicle is less than 5.5 metres long and is not towing a trailer, caravan, etc.
• The transport of the vehicle is eligible for BSPVES and all supporting documentation is provided.
• A trip occurs between 1 March 2021 – 30 June 2021 and the higher rebate provided by the Australian Government remains available.

The subsidy will only apply to new bookings and will be available until 30 June 2021, or until the allocation has been exhausted, whichever comes first. It should also be noted that vehicle container numbers are limited.

For more information, or to make your booking, please contact your relevant shipping agent:

Ex-King Island: Jim McKenzie Agencies 03 6462 1415

Other bookings: TasCargo 1300 038 228

Bass Strait Passenger Vehicle Equalisation Scheme Background

The Bass Strait Passenger Vehicle Equalisation Scheme (BSPVES) was introduced in September 1996 by the Australian Government.

The BSPVES aims to reduce the cost of seagoing travel between the mainland and Tasmania, by providing a rebate for the transportation of an eligible passenger vehicle across Bass Strait.

All claims for payment of the rebate under the scheme are assessed and paid by Services Australia on behalf of the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications.

BIL currently offers the existing rebate upfront by reducing the fare charged. BIL is not the recipient of the rebate, instead the rebated is claimed on the driver’s behalf.

Only one vehicle can be claimed per one eligible driver matched to that individual’s airfare. The individual transporting the vehicle must have an airfare on a direct commercial airline or flight, Please note charter flights are not currently accepted under the scheme.

A signed Driver’s Declaration, Consignment Note and copy of the flight booked must accompany the claim. In circumstances where the government rejects a claim under the scheme, the driver will be required to repay the rebate to BIL.

Vehicles such as prime movers, trailers or vehicles carried on other vehicles are also excluded from the scheme.