Driving the Nation Program
- 1 Step 1 - Read the program guidelines
- 2 Step 2 - Observe the key dates
- 3 Step 3 - Prepare your response
About the program
The Driving the Nation Program is continuously open for applications that contribute to the Program Objectives:
- Overcome barriers to accelerate uptake of ZEVs.
- Optimise the integration of BEVs into the grid.
- Demonstrate new technology, use cases and business models for ZEVs.
- Increase skills, capacity and knowledge relevant to ZEV technologies.
In addition, projects are required to align with one or more of the Driving the Nation Focus Areas. The current Focus Areas are Trucks, Charging, V2G and Innovation:
- Focus Area 1: Demonstration and deployment of heavy BEVs
- Focus Area 2: Deployment of heavy BEV charging solutions
- Focus Area 3: V2G and Innovation
Key documents
Before proceeding to Step 2, please read the following documents:
Key dates
Focus Areas (Trucks, Charging, V2G and Innovation)
- Start date: 15 October 2025
- Closing date: Ongoing
How to enter your submission
Prior to submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI), ensure you have engaged with us. Tell us about your project.
Step 3.1: Navigate to and create an account with ARENANet
Step 3.2: Scroll to the Driving the Nation program section of the program options when commencing your EOI application.
Step 3.3: Select the two-stage process unless you have received an exemption from ARENA for a one-stage full application. Refer to section 2.5 of the Guidelines for guidance on EOI waivers.
Step 3.4: Submit the required attachments with your application. All applications are required to attach a Project Plan, and additional attachments such as a financial model, risk management plan, community consultation plan, and knowledge sharing plan may also be required. See section 2.6 – 2.10 of the Guidelines for guidance on required information.
Reference documents
Use these documents to assist you with your application:
- Driving the Nation Program Guidelines
- Driving the Nation Program – Focus Areas (Trucks, Charging, V2G and Innovation)
- Driving the Nation Program Project Plan Guidance
- Conflict of Interest Declaration Template (DOC 232KB)
- Project Budget and Sources and-Uses Template (XLS 27KB)
- Funding Agreement Compliance Table (DOCX 220KB)
- Funding Agreement Templates:
- Risk Management Plan Template (DOCX 315KB)
