The extension of the $150,000 instant asset write off will enable trucking businesses to invest in safer equipment and support the industry’s suppliers, Australian Trucking Association CEO Ben Maguire and Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia CEO Todd Hacking said today.

The Government announced today that it will extend the $150,000 instant asset write off to the end of the year. The write off, which was increased from $30,000 and expanded to more businesses in March, was due to end on 30 June 2020. The write off applies to both new and second hand assets.

Mr Maguire said the write off extension would enable trucking businesses to invest in new trailers and some trucks, or even recent second hand equipment with better safety technology than their existing fleet.

“The write off has already delivered an economic boost. With this six month extension, I urge every trucking operator to consider if they could bring forward their next equipment purchase and take advantage of the tax benefits,” he said.

HVIA CEO Todd Hacking said the original 30 June deadline for the write off had been a real problem for heavy vehicle manufacturers and suppliers.

“Many businesses did not have time to act on the increased write off before the pandemic escalated and they had to focus on staying in business,” Mr Hacking said.

“In addition, much of the equipment we supply is tailored to an individual purchaser’s specifications. There just wasn’t time to do this before the 30 June deadline.

“Now the industry can engage with our customers and really highlight the advantage of upgrading their equipment. This will go a long way to supporting HVIA members not only now but when JobKeeper ends in September,” he said.

Mr Maguire thanked the Government for listening to industry’s views.

“The ATA and HVIA made two joint submissions on the instant asset write off to the Treasurer and had detailed discussions with Treasury officials. We want to thank the Government for listening to industry’s views and supporting continued investment,” Mr Maguire said.

The ATA and its member associations represent the businesses and people of the Australian trucking industry. Together, the ATA and its members are committed to safety, professionalism and viability.

HVIA represents and advances the interests of manufacturers and suppliers of heavy vehicles and their components, equipment and technology.