Wednesday 26 April 2023: The NRMA and Australian Government have today formally announced a partnership program to build a national electric vehicle fast charging network with a focus on connecting regional communities.
The $78.6 million funding partnership will see the creation of 117 fast charging sites across the national highway network, ensuring that regional Australia is not left behind as the number of Australians buying electric vehicles increases.
This partnership will see crucial investment in infrastructure and ensure that regional communities are connected through a network of fast-chargers while also providing certainty to local electric vehicle owners and those visiting on holidays.
As Australia’s largest mutual, the NRMA is well positioned to play a critical role in building this infrastructure as the organisation’s business model enables it to make long-term investments that deliver wide ranging benefits to the community.
NRMA Chief Executive – Energy, Carly Irving-Dolan said NRMA’s electric network would be the charging backbone of Australia, connecting the country so everyone is able to drive when they want, where they want safely.
“The NRMA is excited to be partnering with the Australian Government to grow our regional network of fast charging stations across the country because we fundamentally believe that regional Australia should not be left behind,” Ms Irving-Dolan said.
“Australia’s expansive landscape presents some unique and local challenges to ensure that we are ready for more electric vehicles on our roads.
“NRMA has over 100 years’ experience helping Australia address transport challenges and we are committed to building on this work through this national charging network.”
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said the Government was working to improve EV infrastructure by establishing a nation-wide network of fast chargers.
“EVs aren’t just for the cities, and Australians who drive long distances either for work or for holidays should be able to reap the benefits of cars that are cheaper and cleaner to run,” Minister Bowen said.
“We’re making range anxiety a thing of the past. This project will help close the gaps and known black spots in the network and make it possible to drive from Darwin to Perth, Broken Hill to Adelaide, and from Brisbane to Tennant Creek in the NT.”
