The Albanese Government, in collaboration with the NRMA through the $78.6 million Driving the Nation Fund, has introduced three new electric vehicle (EV) charging sites across regional South Australia.
Charging stations in Berri and Nuriootpa are currently operational, while additional chargers at the Nullarbor Roadhouse will be available soon. These installations aim to offer fast-charging infrastructure to EV drivers traversing the Nullarbor Plain, the Barossa Valley, and the Riverland region.
These three locations in South Australia mark the beginning of a larger initiative to establish 19 charging sites across the state. This network expansion aims to bridge gaps in the EV charging infrastructure, connecting regional areas and promoting the adoption of cleaner and more cost-effective transportation technology.
Apart from the three recently inaugurated stations in South Australia, fast chargers are scheduled for installation in Border Village, Burra, Ceduna, Coober Pedy, Coorabie, Glendambo, Kimba, Marla, Mount Gambier, Pimba, Port Augusta, Port Gibbon, Port Pirie, Port Wakefield, Wudinna, and Yunta/Manna Hill.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said:
“Long-distance travel is an everyday reality for our Aussie motorists, but EV charging blackspots are common in many regional areas. We’re rolling out these fast-chargers to address both the blackspots and range anxiety, giving motorists the confidence to choose cleaner and cheaper-to-run cars for their journeys, no matter where they live. With SA sharing borders with all the other mainland states and the Northern Territory, the prospect of long-haul regional or interstate travel by EVs is becoming an exciting reality.”
NRMA Energy CEO Carly Irving-Dolan said:
“As EV uptake increases across Australia, the National EV charging network will enable drivers to navigate and find a charge with ease. The rollout of the new fast chargers in Berri and Nuriootpa addresses blackspots and creates vital connections to regional communities and wouldn’t be possible without out collaboration with the South Australia Power Network. The NRMA knows the importance of connecting communities, whether it’s those from the city or the bush. With our expanding network of EV chargers, we are empowering people to move whenever, wherever they want to safely and confidently. Nullarbor is our second standalone power system, and we’re proud to be delivering this world-first technology to better connect Australians.”
