Exciting news for Fleet Managers in New South Wales! The NSW Government has launched an ambitious acceleration funding program designed to turbocharge fleet electrification. With boosted incentives for electric vehicles (EVs) and charging infrastructure, this initiative offers compelling financial support for organisations to embrace the EV revolution, making the transition more viable than ever.
From November 2024 to June 2025, organisations can access increased funding through two primary options: Kick-Start Funding and the Competitive Bid Program. Whether you’re looking to pilot EVs on a smaller scale or deploy them across a large fleet, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s dive into the highlights!
Kick-Start Funding: Fueling Smaller Fleets with Big Savings
For fleet managers interested in starting small, the Kick-Start Funding option is an ideal way to test EV adoption. With a boosted incentive of up to $20,000 per EV and $8,000 per smart charger, this funding program supports organisations in piloting EVs in smaller volumes or adding up to 15 EVs to their fleet.
The latest enhancements in the Kick-Start program focus on light commercial vehicles like vans and utes, plus trucks weighing up to 4.5 tonnes. These categories see the most substantial per-vehicle support, making the economics of electrification compelling. The increased funding can tip the balance for Fleet Managers and Financial Controllers who are evaluating EVs’ Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) versus internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. With these elevated incentives, the EV TCO becomes highly competitive, if not superior.
An exciting update is that individual truck operators can now access this funding, expanding eligibility. This means even smaller operators can make the leap to electric while significantly cutting down on fuel costs and reducing environmental impact. Since funds are distributed on a “first-come, first-served” basis, organisations looking to apply should act swiftly to maximise their chance of securing this valuable support.
Competitive Bid Program: For Large-Scale Fleets Aiming High
For larger fleet operators or organisations planning to add 15 or more EVs, the Competitive Bid Program offers a unique opportunity. This program is structured as a bidding process, with $5 million available in funding. Successful applicants will enjoy increased support for charging infrastructure, including both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) smart chargers.
This funding is especially advantageous for organisations ready to invest in a scalable EV infrastructure, as it addresses one of the primary barriers to fleet electrification: charger costs. AC chargers receive up to $4,000 per port, while DC chargers can gain incentives up to $8,000 per port, ensuring that charging stations are well within reach. By alleviating these upfront costs, the Competitive Bid Program supports fleet managers ready to build an EV foundation that meets both current and future fleet needs.
Key Deadlines: The initial bidding phase for Round 5 closes on 17 January 2025 at 5 pm AEDT, making early preparation essential. For organisations determined to lead in fleet electrification, the Competitive Bid Program offers the strategic and financial support to make it happen.
Why This Matters for Your Fleet
The acceleration funding isn’t just about dollars and cents—it’s about future-proofing your fleet. The NSW Government is making a strong commitment to support sustainable business operations, reduce carbon footprints, and ensure NSW fleets are at the forefront of the EV transition. With enhanced funding across both programs, fleet managers now have the tools and incentives to electrify without overburdening their budgets.
In summary:
- Kick-Start Funding: Up to $20,000 per EV and $8,000 per charger, ideal for smaller fleets.
- Competitive Bid Program: Increased funding for AC/DC smart chargers with a $5 million pool, suited for larger fleets with 15+ vehicles.
The window to access these boosted incentives is open now until June 2025. If you’re on the fence about the switch to EVs, now is the time to act. Seize this opportunity to lead the charge in creating a cleaner, more efficient fleet! Visit the NSW Government’s website or contact them directly to get started on your journey toward a sustainable fleet today.
