Outcome:	1. Environment			Question No: 6  
Division/Agency:	Environment Quality Division
Topic:	Bio-fuels
Hansard Page ECITA:	Written Question on Notice

Senator Nash asked:
Could DEH officials advise the committee as to progress on their studies into biofuels as they relate to; vehicle testing on ethanol blends, the RVP studies and E10 health studies and related matters?  Could officials advise the committee of preliminary findings of these studies?

Answer/s:
•	The Biofuels package contains a large research component, with two major studies to address market barriers and restore consumer confidence in the biofuels industry.  The studies involve:
o	A vehicle testing program which explores the suitability of the Australian car fleet for low ethanol blends; and
o	An investigation of the health impacts of ethanol blends.
•	The Department has contracted Orbital Australia in Perth to conduct trials to assess the operability and durability of a sample of vehicle models from the Australian fleet. The models being tested are listed as not suitable for E5 or E10 blended petrol on the FCAI website. This study is due to be finalised in the first half of 2007. 
•	The Department is finalising a contract with the successful tenderer for the health impact study.   It is anticipated that the results of this study could also be used to develop a consistent approach to setting fuel volatility (also referred to as Reid Vapour Pressure or RVP) standards by States and Territories.  The project is expected to commence in the first quarter of 2007.