Newcastle triples public EV charging network

A total of 34 new charging ports are being installed across 11 sites, significantly boosting access for both local and visiting EV drivers. New chargers are already up and running in suburbs including Lambton, Wallsend, Hamilton, Stockton, Adamstown, Mayfield, Newcastle, Newcastle East and Wickham, with installations at Beresfield and Georgetown expected to follow shortly.

City of Newcastle’s Executive Director of Planning and Environment, Michelle Bisson, said the project is a crucial part of the city’s broader sustainability goals. “Our Newcastle Environment Strategy aims for more than half of all new car registrations to be electric by 2030-31,” Ms Bisson said. “With more than 1,350 EVs now registered in Newcastle, a tenfold increase over the past four years, it’s clear the community is ready to embrace change. However, access to charging infrastructure remains key, especially for those without off-street parking.”

The initiative has received a $270,000 funding boost from the NSW Government through its EV Kerbside Charging Grants program, part of a wider $4.1 million investment across the state. Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley, said increasing the number of charging ports would help future-proof Newcastle’s transport system while making everyday travel more convenient for EV users. “More chargers mean more confidence for drivers, who can now rely on a growing network across the city,” she said.

Local MPs also welcomed the rollout. Member for Charlestown, Jodie Harrison, described the project as a “practical investment” in the region’s transport future, while Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp said it showed Newcastle was “leading the charge” towards sustainability. Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery highlighted the project’s role in helping meet the state’s emissions reduction targets.

Councillor Declan Clausen, Chair of City of Newcastle’s Strategy and Innovation Committee, said the expansion was a key component of the city’s net-zero push. “By tripling the number of public EV chargers and powering them with 100% renewable energy from local solar and wind sources, we are helping to create a cleaner, quieter city,” Cr Clausen said. He added that the chargers are being placed in key centres to encourage economic activity and support local businesses.

With the new installations, Newcastle’s public charging network will soon feature 50 ports across 15 locations, complementing existing infrastructure in the CBD. City of Newcastle is also finalising a comprehensive EV and Low Emissions Transport Strategy to guide future investment.

For further details, visit: City of Newcastle EV Chargers Project.