Regional towns set to spark from EV charger installing

ROAD-TRIPPERS will be able to charge their electric vehicles at tourism destinations, in what one state hopes will be a win for the regions.

NSW’s third round of grants boosting EV charging infrastructure will result in 159 new chargers being deployed in 48 regional hotspots, with drivers encouraged to check out towns and inject money into local economies before they hit the road.

Kempsey Shire will receive 11 charging points and MidCoast Council will get 10.

The chargers will be high-powered at between 22kW and 100kW, which can fully charge a standard EV SUV in about an hour.

Climate and Energy Minister Penny Sharpe said it would make NSW the easiest place in Australia to own an EV.

Exact locations are yet to be finalised but government officials said they would be installed at “iconic road trip routes” and at “key tourism destinations”, including at rest stops, visitor centres and holiday hotspots.

“Whether you live regionally or are setting off on a road trip, the new chargers open exciting opportunities to travel further with confidence, Ms Sharpe said.

The $5.9 million worth of grants will feature $3.2 million in private investment, with six companies including NRMA and Woolworths to install the infrastructure.

“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,” Regional Minister Tara Moriarty said.

In July, NSW announced $2.8 million in grants and $2.2 million in private capital to add 549 car-charging facilities in 130 suburbs over the coming year.

According to the Electric Vehicle Council 2024 annual report, 9.5 per cent of NSW’s new car sales were EVs, while more than 100,000 full battery electric vehicles were on the state’s roads in October 2025.

By Alex MITCHELL, AAP