The NSW Government has released its 2026 NSW Electric Vehicle Strategy, which outlines a plan to reduce emissions and make EVs and their cost-of-living benefits accessible to more people, with a focus on closing charging gaps in regional, remote and suburban areas.
With global fuel prices under pressure and ongoing uncertainty in international markets, accelerating EV uptake has never been more important, said Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe.
“Owning an electric vehicle helps households and businesses save thousands of dollars on fuel and around 40 per cent on maintenance,” said Minister Sharpe.
“This Strategy will get more EVs on the road and help drivers travel and charge with confidence.
“These updates will help build a world-class charging network, support electric trucks and grow the skilled workforce needed to maintain EVs.”
The Government said switching to an EV can cut fuel costs by up to $3,000 a year, or eliminate them entirely when paired with home solar, while reducing maintenance costs by around 40%.
“This is about giving people a real alternative, one that’s cheaper to run and with this rollout, easier to access,” said Premier, Chris Minns.
“We’re making it simpler to go electric, with more chargers, better access and real savings over time.”
Backed by $100 million in funding, the 2026 NSW Electric Vehicle Strategy sharpens the focus on five priority areas:
- Expanding the fast charging network with a focus on regional, remote and suburban blackspots;
- More kerbside chargers;
- Expanding the EV Fleets Incentive Program from small to medium-size trucks;
- Investment in training for around 2,000 EV mechanics, particularly in regional NSW;
- Strengthening clear, reliable information to help drivers, businesses, councils and owners’ corporations understand their options and access support.
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said EVs are transforming the automotive industry.
“It’s critical our mechanics have the skills to keep up with that change,” he said.
“This training ensures workers are equipped to safely service and repair electric vehicles, while supporting the growth of a modern, future-focused automotive workforce.”
To date, the NSW Government has funded more than 3,300 EV chargers in more than 1,200 sites across metropolitan, regional and remote NSW.
“NSW is pushing on the right barriers to unlock EV uptake and help people access cost of living savings that come from making the switch. Filling regional charging gaps, expanding support for heavy vehicle fleets, and investing in workforce training are practical steps that will get more Australians into EVs sooner,” said EV Council CEO, Julie Delvecchio.
“Expanding fleet incentives to trucks is one of the smartest moves in this strategy – it’s one of the fastest ways to cut operating costs for businesses while making our streets cleaner and quieter for everyone.”
Applications are now open for eligible councils to build capability and plan for further public charging rollout under a $3 million program, recognising their key role in supporting local access to EV infrastructure.
Fleets and truck operators can also currently apply for grants to electrify vehicles and install charging infrastructure.
To view the updated NSW Electric Vehicle Strategy, visit: www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/nsw-governments-electric-vehicle-strategy.
