A new statewide awards program is encouraging communities across New South Wales to view electric vehicle charging as part of a broader visitor economy, recognising towns that make it easier for EV drivers to stop, stay and spend locally.
Launched by the NSW Government and the Electric Vehicle Council, the EV Friendly Towns program opened for applications on 30 July 2026. The initiative recognises communities that support electric vehicle travel through charging infrastructure, visitor amenities, tourism experiences and local engagement while encouraging practical improvements over time.
The program follows record growth in Australia’s electric vehicle market. Battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles accounted for 36 per cent of all passenger car sales in June 2026, with the Tesla Model Y becoming the country’s bestselling passenger vehicle.
Awards recognise towns of different sizes
The awards are open to eligible organisations, independent entities and councils applying on behalf of towns across NSW. Organisations applying without being the local council must provide evidence of council support.
Communities will compete in three population categories. Tiny towns have fewer than 1,500 residents, Small towns have between 1,500 and 5,000 residents, and Top towns have more than 5,000 residents.
Each category has minimum charging requirements. Tiny towns require at least one publicly available AC or DC charger. Small towns must have at least one publicly available AC charger rated at 7 kW or more and one publicly available DC charger rated at 20 kW or more. Top towns require at least two publicly available AC chargers of at least 7 kW and two publicly available DC chargers of at least 20 kW.
Applications are assessed through an independent process. Eligible applicants receive feedback on their submissions, with one town recognised in each category.
More than charging infrastructure
Assessment extends beyond charging facilities to include accessibility, visitor amenities, tourism offerings, local business engagement and future planning for electric vehicle adoption.
According to the Electric Vehicle Council, the program reflects changing travel patterns as more Australians choose electric vehicles for regional trips and plan their journeys around charging locations.
Electric Vehicle Council CEO Julie Delvecchio said changing travel behaviour was creating opportunities for regional destinations.
“An EV driver doesn’t just pass through a town. They stop to charge, and while they’re there, they spend time and money – on food, coffee, a place to stay.”
Delvecchio said the program aimed to help communities understand the wider value of electric vehicle infrastructure.
“EV Friendly Towns is about helping regional and local communities understand that EV infrastructure isn’t just a transport investment – it’s a tourism and economic development opportunity. The towns that make those visits easy and enjoyable will be the towns that benefit most.”
Applications now open
Applications close on 25 September 2026, with information sessions scheduled for 11 August and 10 September to explain eligibility requirements, evidence needed for submissions and the application process.
Applicants must submit a completed application form and supporting evidence as a single ZIP file by email. An application fee of $220, including GST, applies to each submission.
The program is an initiative of the Electric Vehicle Council and is funded by the NSW Government. Successful communities will receive statewide recognition and promotional opportunities, providing another way for councils and local organisations to attract visitors as electric vehicle travel continues to grow.
