National plan launched to eliminate EV charging blackspots

Australia is taking steps to tackle charging bottlenecks with the launch of a nationwide project designed to plan public plug-in points where drivers need them most. Backed by $1.06 million from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) as part of a $1.43 million initiative, the Electric Vehicle Council is developing a national charging road map due for completion in mid-2027.

The project aims to bring together car makers, power networks, charging operators and consumer representatives to identify emerging pressure points across local roads and major highway corridors. With more than 600,000 pure electric cars already registered across the country, industry planners want to ensure that fast and ultra-fast charging rolls out ahead of the next wave of electric models expected over the coming decade.

While public fast-charging sites expanded by 18 per cent over the past twelve months, network growth remains uneven across states and regional areas. The mapping project focuses on preventing blackspots and coordinating grid upgrades so charging stations can open faster and handle growing peak holiday travel.

What this means for your novated lease

If you have been holding back on salary packaging an electric car because of concerns about public charging, this planning push brings welcome clarity:

• Growing support for apartment and street parkers: A coordinated charging footprint means employees without off-street home parking or dedicated garage wallboxes will face far less friction relying on neighbourhood and roadside fast chargers.
• Lower long-distance running stress: For drivers who regularly take regional road trips, targeted highway installations will help eliminate remote dead zones between major towns.
• Salary packaging public charging costs: Through a novated lease, your ongoing charging expenses can be bundled into your regular pre-tax deductions alongside insurance and registration, delivering day-to-day running savings on top of the upfront tax exemption.
• Longer lease viability: Because novated leases typically run between three and five years, the rapid maturation of Australia's public charging grid ensures that an electric vehicle chosen today will become easier and more convenient to run as your lease progresses.