Electric vehicle (EV) drivers across New England and wider regional NSW are set for a smoother ride, thanks to a $5.9 million funding injection from the State Government to expand the state’s charging infrastructure.
As part of the latest round of EV Destination Charging Grants, 159 new chargers will be installed across 48 regional locations over the next 12 months. Among them are local government areas in and around the New England region, including the Liverpool Plains which will be receiving three charging ports.
The rollout forms part of the government’s push to make NSW the easiest place in Australia to own and operate an EV, with the initiative focusing on major road trip routes and key tourism destinations. Chargers will be positioned at rest stops, visitor centres, supermarkets, and popular holiday spots.
In total, 27 regional LGAs across the state are included in this round of funding, from the outback reaches of Bourke to coastal hubs like Shoalhaven and Tweed. Nearby areas such as Dubbo (7 ports), Kempsey (11), and Lithgow (3) will also benefit, extending coverage for New England drivers heading further afield.
Minister for Climate Change, Energy and the Environment Penny Sharpe said the program would help accelerate the state’s transition to clean transport.
“The Minns Labor Government is investing another $5.9 million to supercharge sustainable travel across regional NSW with another 159 new chargers, all powered by 100 per cent renewable energy,” she said.
“Whether you live regionally or are setting off on a road trip, the new chargers open exciting opportunities to travel further with confidence.”
The state government’s grants will be matched with $3.2 million in private investment, bringing the total value of this rollout to more than $9 million. The chargers themselves are designed to be faster and more efficient than previous models, reducing wait times for drivers.
Six companies, EVSE, KarChargers, NRMA, Woolworths Group, ReGen EV Charging Install, and Rise Energy, have been tasked with building the infrastructure. Exact site locations are being finalised in partnership with local councils, including those within the broader New England catchment.
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty emphasised the tourism potential tied to EV infrastructure.
“Regional NSW is full of hidden gems and now EV drivers have more places to stop and charge while they explore and travel across this wonderful state,” she said.
“I know communities outside the city will welcome more visitors and see the opportunities these chargers bring to showcase everything their towns have to offer.”
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper added that the investment would boost local economies along popular travel corridors.
“These chargers ensure locals or visitors travelling through our state have more places to stop and top up along the way as they take in the wonders of NSW,” he said.
“It will help boost local economies and open up more of our state to visitors, helping drive tourism in parts of regional NSW.”
For EV-friendly road trip guides and a list of current and upcoming charger locations, visit Visit NSW’s EV travel page or find grant details at Energy NSW.
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