More than 77,000 Volkswagens sold in Australia have the emission-cheating software that has embroiled the German brand in one of the world's biggest automotive scandals. 
Two weeks after the fraudulent software was confirmed, Volkswagen's Australian division has broken its silence and confirmed the number of cars affected and commenced the first stage of an action plan to rectify the issue locally.
The manufacturer is scrambling to fix up to 11 million cars worldwide equipped with a secret computer program intended to pass emissions tests during official assessments, and exceeding maximum pollution levels in the real world.
A statement released by the company on Wednesday says "certain diesel vehicles sold in Australia were fitted with software that can affect their emissions during a dynometer [sic] test".
Volkswagen Australia has already barred dealers from selling diesel versions of the Tiguan, Jetta, Passat and Caddy that have so-Called EA189-series diesel engines at the centre of the scam.
Among the vehicles that have been sold in Australia with the 1.6-litre and 2-litre diesel engines, there are 54,745 Volkswagen passenger cars - including popular variants such as the Golf, Polo, Passat and Tiguan - as well as 5148 Skoda models and 17,256 Volkswagen commercial vehicles.
No petrol models have been affected by the issue, and V6 and V8 models are also unaffected.
The latest, seventh-generation, Volkswagen Golf TDI is also untouched by the issue.
Volkswagen issued a statement on Wednesday outlining the models, which is much greater than first anticipated, and saying that it is awaiting a technical solution from its parent company in Germany before commencing a rectification program, which most likely won't begin until early next year.
"Volkswagen Group Australia takes this issue extremely seriously and is continuing to gather all the facts from our head office to support any rectification plans in Australia," said Volkswagen Group Australia's managing director, John White.
"We understand the disappointment and frustration felt by our customers, dealers and partners in Australia and apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
"We are doing everything possible to fix the problem and will be making further announcements in the near future.
"It is important for customers to note that all affected vehicles remain technically safe and driveable and that we will contact them in time to advise what the next steps are," added Mr White.
Audi, Volkswagen's luxury arm, has already confirmed that the software is present, but "inactive" in key models such as its A3 hatchback and A4 sedan.
The issue has had global ramifications for Volkswagen, which faces billions of dollars in fines, and legal action from owners and government bodies.
Volkswagen and Skoda owners who wish to understand whether their particular vehicle is affected can use a search function on the Volkswagen and Skoda websites or contact the customer call centres on 1800 607 822 (Volkswagen) and 1800 607 540 (Skoda)