Council Adopts New EV charging policy, Laying Groundwork for a Greener
Published on 17 March 2025
Southern Grampians Shire Council has taken a step towards a greener, more sustainable future, with the adoption of an Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Policy at the 12 March Council Meeting.
This policy sets out a clear framework to guide the rollout of electric vehicle charging infrastructure on Council-owned or managed land—helping to meet our emissions reduction targets while supporting the growing transition to electric transport.
The purpose of this policy is to facilitate a coordinated rollout of EV charging infrastructure which will aim to meet Council’s proposed emissions reduction targets. This policy's intent is to guide the consideration, engagement and resolve for the installation of EV charging infrastructure on Council-owned or managed land.
Acting Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Afton Barber expressed his support for the policy.
“Council has long been committed to the improvement of environmental sustainability and sustainable infrastructure throughout the Shire,” said Cr Barber.
“Council recognises the urgent need to address the climate crisis we are facing and to plan for a greener future.
“As federal standards shift and the market for electric vehicles expands, we want to ensure our communities are ready. This policy gives us a pathway to support their integration. Guiding appropriate future locations for this EV infrastructure was one of the main triggers driving us to draft this policy.”
The new policy follows a period of public exhibition and community input, with feedback helping to shape the final version.
It will now guide Council’s decision-making when reviewing proposals for new EV charging stations from both internal departments and external providers.
Council acknowledges the projected increase in EV’s in the future and subsequently the need for more charging infrastructure particularly within Hamilton central business district.
Council is preparing for the projected rise in EV ownership—especially in busy areas like the Hamilton CBD, where access to charging stations will become increasingly important. The policy also paves the way for third-party commercial operators to install and manage EV chargers in suitable locations across the Shire.
To view the policy in it’s entirety, please visit our website. To stay informed of all Council news, please consider signing up to our Enewsletter.
-Ends-