New South Wales Launches $100M EV Strategy to Expand Charging Network

The New South Wales Government has introduced a comprehensive electric vehicle (EV) strategy backed by an investment of $100 million, aimed at strengthening charging infrastructure, increasing EV adoption, and lowering transport-related emissions across the state.

The 2026 EV Strategy prioritises the expansion of charging coverage in regional, remote, and suburban areas, while also addressing the needs of commercial transport through support for electric trucks and workforce development.

Currently, more than 117,000 electric vehicles are registered in New South Wales, representing approximately 15.6% of all new vehicle sales.

A central component of the plan is the continued rollout of charging infrastructure. To date, over 3,300 charging points have been funded across more than 1,200 locations statewide. The new strategy will accelerate deployment, particularly in underserved regions, with additional fast-charging stations and expanded kerbside charging solutions for drivers without access to home charging.

The programme also broadens incentives to include medium-duty electric trucks, supporting the transition of commercial fleets. In parallel, the government plans to train approximately 2,000 mechanics in regional areas, ensuring the workforce is equipped to maintain and service an expanding EV fleet.

To further support adoption, the strategy includes enhanced information services designed to guide households and businesses through the transition to electric mobility. Lower operating costs remain a key driver, with EV owners expected to save significantly on fuel and up to 40% on maintenance compared to conventional vehicles.

Regional accessibility is a major focus, with authorities aiming to ensure that EV charging is both reliable and widely available beyond metropolitan areas. This is intended to make electric driving a practical option across the entire state.

In addition to passenger vehicles, the strategy incorporates broader transport electrification measures. These include the transition of more than 8,000 buses to zero-emission technology and the continuation of trials for heavy electric vehicles on state road networks.

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