Newcastle to Gain 48 More EV Chargers in Statewide Network Expansion

newy.com.au – Newcastle will receive 48 new electric vehicle chargers under a state-funded program aimed at improving access to public charging infrastructure in high density areas across New South Wales. The rollout is part of a $5 million expansion of the kerbside charging network, announced on 9 July 2025 by the Minns Labor Government.

The new chargers, which range from 7 to 22 kilowatts, will be installed over the coming year on kerbsides and in public car parks across suburbs including Hamilton, Wickham, Cooks Hill, Merewether and Newcastle East. All chargers will be publicly accessible around the clock and powered by renewable energy. The initiative targets drivers who lack access to private off-street parking, such as apartment dwellers.

This latest installation follows an earlier rollout that saw 30 chargeports completed in the Newcastle local government area. The additional 48 chargers were funded through Round 2 of the NSW Government’s EV Kerbside Charging Grants, with $2.8 million allocated to five charge-point operators. These companies, Charge Post, Connected Kerb, EVX, Plus ES and Electrifying Asset Management, will also invest $2.2 million in private funds to support the expansion.

Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp welcomed the announcement, saying, “We’re thrilled to announce the rollout of new kerbside EV chargers right here in Newcastle, made possible by grants delivered by the Minns Labor Government. The additional 48 chargers allocated to Newcastle in the second round will enhance accessibility for residents who don’t have the ability to charge in a garage or off-street parking.”

Acting Minister for Climate Change and Energy Paul Scully said expanding the charging network was key to supporting electric vehicle uptake. “This isn’t just about convenience; EVs give people the chance to slash household transport costs and accelerate our journey to net-zero emissions,” he said.

The state-wide rollout will see 549 chargers installed across 22 local government areas, with the Newcastle allocation among the highest. The program is part of a broader $10 million strategy to deliver kerbside EV charging in suburbs with limited access to private parking. Round 2 applications for funding closed earlier this month, with all successful chargers required to be located within government-designated priority zones.

Further details about the program and charger locations are available at www.energy.nsw.gov.au/business-and-industry/programs-grants-and-schemes/electric-vehicles/electric-vehicle-kerbside.