NSW Govt to boost EV workforce

The NSW Government has released its 2026 NSW Electric Vehicle Strategy, which aims to reduce emissions while making EVs and their cost-of-living benefits more accessible.

Backed by $100 million in funding, the initiative aims to close charging gaps in regional, remote and suburban areas. It will also invest in training a skilled EV workforce.

“These updates will help build a world-class charging network, support electric trucks and grow the skilled workforce needed to maintain EVs,” said Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said electric vehicles were transforming the automotive industry, and it was critical that mechanics had the skills to keep up with that change.

“This training ensures workers are equipped to safely service and repair electric vehicles, while supporting the growth of a modern, future-focused automotive workforce,” Whan said.

The 2026 NSW Electric Vehicle Strategy has five priority areas:

• Fast chargers where they’re needed most
  Expanding the fast-charging network with a focus on regional, remote and suburban blackspots, so EV drivers outside city centres are not left behind.
   
• More kerbside chargers
  Rolling out more kerbside charging infrastructure to help EV drivers who cannot charge at home, including apartment residents.
   
• Electric trucks on the road sooner
  Expanding the EV Fleets Incentive Program from small to medium-sized trucks, allowing organisations to electrify their delivery and service fleets.
   
• A skilled EV workforce, especially in the regions
  Investing in training for around 2000 mechanics in regional NSW, where access to courses is limited and travel distances longer, to safely service EVs and charging infrastructure.
   
• Clear, reliable information
  Strengthening central sources of information to help drivers, businesses, councils and owners’ corporations understand their options and access support.

In NSW, EV purchases now make up 15.6% of new car sales. The government said switching to an EV can cut fuel costs by up to $3000 a year, or eliminate them entirely when paired with home solar, while reducing maintenance costs by about 40%.

To date, the government has funded more than 3300 EV chargers in more than 1200 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 open for eligible councils to build capability and plan for further public charging rollout under a $3 million program. Fleets and truck operators can also currently apply for grants to electrify vehicles and install charging infrastructure.

To view the updated Strategy, visit: www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/nsw-governments-electric-vehicle-strategy.

Image credit: iStock.com/eyesfoto