UPDATE: New South Wales (NSW) is set to transform regional tourism with the announcement of a significant investment in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. Officials confirmed today that $5.9 million in grants will fund the installation of 159 high-powered chargers across 48 regional hotspots, enhancing travel options for EV drivers.
This initiative aims to fuel local economies by encouraging road-trippers to explore regional towns, injecting much-needed revenue before they hit the road. The chargers, boasting capacities between 22kW and 100kW, can fully charge a standard EV SUV in around one hour, making it more convenient than ever to travel through NSW’s picturesque landscapes.
Climate and Energy Minister Penny Sharpe stated, “This makes NSW the easiest place in Australia to own an EV.” The specific locations for the chargers are still being finalized, but they will be strategically placed along “iconic road trip routes” and at “key tourism destinations,” such as rest stops and visitor centers.
Regional Minister Tara Moriarty added, “Regional NSW is full of hidden gems, and now EV drivers have more places to stop and charge. Communities outside the city will welcome more visitors and see the opportunities these chargers bring to showcase everything their towns have to offer.”
The funding breakdown includes $3.2 million in private investment from six companies, including NRMA and Woolworths, committed to installing the infrastructure. Notably, Shoalhaven will receive the highest number of charging ports at 19, followed by Kempsey with 11 and Lismore with 9.
This latest initiative follows the July announcement of $2.8 million in grants and $2.2 million in private capital to add 549 charging facilities in 130 suburbs over the coming year. The push for EVs is gaining momentum; according to the Electric Vehicle Council’s 2024 annual report, 9.5% of NSW’s new car sales were EVs, with over 100,000 full battery electric vehicles already on the state’s roads as of October 2025.
With the rollout of the new chargers, NSW is not just preparing for an increase in EV ownership but also positioning itself as a leader in sustainable travel and regional tourism. The installation of these chargers is anticipated to take place in the coming months, with an emphasis on enhancing connectivity and accessibility for all travelers.
Stay tuned for updates as the specific charger locations are unveiled, and prepare for an exciting new era of travel in New South Wales!
