UPDATE: New reports confirm that New South Wales (NSW) is launching a groundbreaking initiative to bolster tourism and support electric vehicle (EV) owners across the region. The government is investing $5.9 million to install 159 new EV chargers at 48 regional hotspots, offering an exciting opportunity for road-trippers to explore local communities.
This urgent development is set to transform the way travelers experience the beauty of regional NSW. Climate and Energy Minister Penny Sharpe announced that these high-powered chargers, ranging from 22kW to 100kW, will enable EV drivers to fully charge their vehicles in just about an hour. This initiative aims to make NSW the most EV-friendly state in Australia, encouraging more people to embrace electric travel.
As the chargers will be strategically located at iconic road trip routes and key tourism destinations—including rest stops and visitor centers—drivers will be incentivized to explore charming towns and contribute to local economies before they hit the road. Minister Sharpe emphasized the significance of these chargers, stating, “Whether you live regionally or are setting off on a road trip, the new chargers open exciting opportunities to travel further with confidence.”
The investment includes $3.2 million in private funding, with six companies, including NRMA and Woolworths, collaborating to install the infrastructure. Notably, the Shoalhaven area will receive the most charging ports, totaling 19, followed by Kempsey with 11 and Lismore with 9.
Regional Minister Tara Moriarty highlighted the opportunity this initiative brings, stating, “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.”
This announcement follows previous funding rounds, including $2.8 million in grants and $2.2 million in private investment for an additional 549 car-charging facilities across 130 suburbs over the coming year. According to the Electric Vehicle Council’s 2024 annual report, 9.5 percent of NSW’s new car sales were EVs, with over 100,000 fully electric vehicles already on the roads as of October 2025.
As this initiative unfolds, EV drivers and local communities are encouraged to stay tuned for further announcements regarding specific charger locations and installation timelines. The push for enhanced EV infrastructure promises to not only boost tourism but also foster a sustainable future for travel in NSW.
This is a developing story, and authorities will continue to share updates as the project progresses. Stay informed as we cover the latest in EV infrastructure and regional tourism in New South Wales.
