In Western Australia, owners of electric, hybrid, and hydrogen vehicles will be required to display EV or H labels on the front and rear number plates of their vehicles from 2026.

The Western Australian Government has introduced this requirement to enable first responders to identify electric, hybrid, or hydrogen vehicles quickly and ensure that appropriate safety precautions are taken when attending crash scenes or other incidents.

"This change brings Western Australia into line with the Australian Light Vehicle Standards Rules and other Australian jurisdictions regarding this requirement," said Transport Minister Jessica Stojkovski.

Owners of these vehicles in the state will be granted a 12-month transition period, until 1st January 2027, to affix the labels. Vehicle owners who fail to comply may face fines of up to AUD 800 (US$ 520).

Electric vehicles require several key minerals, including lithium, cobalt, nickel, manganese, and graphite, for battery production. Rare earth elements are required for motors, while copper and aluminium are used for wiring and other electrical components.

The International Energy Agency reports that lithium demand is expected to increase more than fortyfold by 2040, followed by graphite, cobalt, and nickel.