More EV chargers set for our suburbs

said the government was helping small businesses, dealerships, repairers and mechanics sell, service and repair more EVs across Australia, while supporting more chargers in suburban areas where EV sales have increased the most. “The Albanese Government’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard is giving Australians access to more models, and now our investment in charging infrastructure is making it easier and cheaper for Australian families to choose an EV.

“As electric vehicle sales overtake petrol car sales for the first time in Australia, now’s the time for dealerships, repairers and mechanics to update and upgrade their facilities so more Australian families can power up at a location closer to home,” Minister Bowen said. “Australians are voting with their wallets for a greater choice of cleaner, cheaper-to-run cars, reducing their exposure to international petrol price shocks.” "This is a welcome and practical expansion of the DRIVEN program at a time when dealers across Australia are investing millions in the tools, equipment and workshop upgrades required to service electric vehicles.

“These additional funds will help dealers make that transition with confidence and ensure our customers continue to have access to safe, high-quality vehicle servicing and repairs," said James Voortman, CEO of Australian Automotive Dealer Association. The latest round of the DRIVEN program is open for applications until 30 April 2027, with rebates available for: EV charger purchase and installation – up to $3,000 per plug, within a category cap of $21,000 EV-specific workshop equipment and tools – up to 80% of eligible costs, including tools, protective equipment and workshop upgrades.

This announcement comes as electric vehicle sales have overtaken petrol cars for the first time in Australia, as more drivers embrace cheaper running costs and greater choice. New vehicle sales figures for August show EV sales increased 171% compared with the same month last year, while battery electric vehicles outsold petrol cars, with 25,824 sales. Battery electric, plug-in hybrid and conventional hybrid vehicles together accounted for more than half of all new vehicle sales.

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