The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) welcomes the substantial commitment to EVs’ future and the infrastructure required in the New South Wales (NSW) State Budget.
The budget measures will play a pivotal role in transforming the automotive landscape in NSW, says FCAI chief executive Tony Weber.
“The NSW Government’s significant investment in electric vehicle infrastructure is a decisive step towards wide-spread adoption of the zero-emissions technology,” he says.
“By supporting the development of fast chargers, local government and business fleets, and EV infrastructure in key areas, this budget addresses crucial barriers to EV adoption.
“The FCAI acknowledges the approach taken to ensure that both metropolitan and regional areas benefit from enhanced EV infrastructure. This balanced investment is essential for ensuring that all NSW communities can benefit.”
Weber says the FCAI looks forward to working with the NSW Government to support the successful implementation of these initiatives and to continue advocating for policies that promote cleaner, and low and zero-emission options for all Australians.
The measures announced are an important step towards the ambitious 50% target of all new car sales being electric by 2030, he says.
The NSW Government’s EV commitment includes a funding package aimed at expanding EV infrastructure across the state with $149 million to co-fund EV fast chargers, reducing the time needed to recharge batteries; $105 million to support businesses and local government fleets in procuring EVs and installing necessary charging infrastructure; $20 million to co-fund EV destination chargers at regional tourist spots, promoting sustainable tourism; $10 million to co-fund EV kerbside chargers in metropolitan areas, aiding EV drivers without off-street parking access; and $10 million to co-fund retrofitting of EV infrastructure in apartment buildings, making EV ownership more accessible for residents.
The NSW Government has announced that it has also dedicated a further $263.5 million to advance the rollout of the updated NSW EV Strategy.
