The City of Gosnells has added eight new electric vehicles (EVs) to its council fleet. This transition represents the City’s latest effort to cut down on carbon emissions, reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, and demonstrate its commitment to a cleaner and greener future.
Mayor Terresa Lynes expressed her excitement about this initiative, underscoring its potential environmental and economic benefits. “Last year, we began to switch over our light fleet to hybrid vehicles, and this year, we’re going a step further by transitioning to eight new electric fleet vehicles,” said Mayor Lynes.
“Not only will this significantly reduce the City’s fossil fuel use, but it will also make our fleet more affordable to run while reducing our impact on the environment, to support a cleaner, greener future.”
These new electric hatchbacks arrived at the City’s Civic Centre as part of the broader strategy to transition away from traditional fuel-powered vehicles. The goal is to position Gosnells as a leader in council environmental stewardship, providing a practical example of how local governments can take proactive steps in reducing their carbon footprint. This transition is not just about environmental impact; it also represents a more cost-effective solution for the City’s transport needs, potentially saving money in operating costs that can be redirected toward other community projects.
Comprehensive charging infrastructure
The successful deployment of electric vehicles in any organisation hinges on adequate charging infrastructure, and the City of Gosnells has carefully planned for this by implementing robust charging solutions at key locations. Supported by grant funding from the Commonwealth Government’s Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) through its Driving the Nation program, as well as support from the State’s Energy Policy WA, the City will be installing a mix of DC fast-charging stations and an AC unit to ensure the new fleet can operate efficiently.
With assistance from the Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA), the City obtained this grant to cover the costs associated with installing the charging stations. In total, six DC fast-charging stations and one AC unit will be strategically placed to serve both the City’s fleet and the community at large. The initiative demonstrates the power of collaboration, as WALGA’s support helped secure funding that will not only facilitate Gosnells’ EV transition but also enhance the accessibility of EVs for residents and visitors alike.
Two of the newly installed DC charging stations, located at Mills Park and the Civic Centre, will be open to the public on a pay-for-use basis, providing a convenient charging option for local EV owners. The remaining four DC stations and one AC unit will be dedicated to charging the City’s new fleet at the Civic Centre, ensuring that the vehicles are always ready to serve the community’s needs. This investment in charging infrastructure exemplifies how forward-thinking planning and grant support can make EV adoption viable at a local government level.
Powering with renewable energy
An essential component of Gosnells’ EV strategy is the commitment to renewable energy. The electricity used to power the new charging stations at both Mills Park and the Civic Centre will come from a renewable source through the City’s involvement in WALGA’s Sustainable Energy Project. This aligns perfectly with the City’s sustainability goals, making the project a complete package that not only reduces emissions from vehicle exhaust but also minimises reliance on non-renewable electricity sources. By opting for green power, the City amplifies the environmental benefits of its EV fleet, achieving a more sustainable solution for public transport.
Federal Member for Burt, Matt Keogh, praised the initiative, emphasising its significance in making EV technology more accessible across the region. “This project shows what is possible when Federal and Local Governments work together,” Mr. Keogh said.
“The number of electric vehicles in our south-eastern suburbs is skyrocketing, and these new charging stations will make EVs even more accessible locally. This funding has helped the City of Gosnells transition their fleet to Battery Electric Vehicles, which will not only save money for ratepayers, it’s also driving towards cleaner air for our community.”
Benefits for the community
This initiative offers a range of benefits beyond the immediate environmental impact. The City’s decision to transition its fleet to EVs has a positive economic dimension, as the reduced cost of fuel and maintenance is expected to result in lower overall operating expenses. These savings can then be redirected to support other community services and infrastructure projects, amplifying the positive effect on Gosnells’ residents.
Additionally, by enhancing EV infrastructure in the City, Gosnells is supporting a broader shift toward cleaner transportation in the community. Residents who may be considering EVs now have more options for charging, making the transition to electric vehicles more appealing. This move not only positions Gosnells as a leader in sustainability but also helps build a local ecosystem that supports clean technology adoption.
The City’s forward-thinking approach provides a model for other local governments that might be considering similar transitions. By showcasing the financial, environmental, and operational advantages of EV adoption, Gosnells is setting a precedent that could inspire nearby cities and towns to follow suit. Local governments across Australia are under increasing pressure to adopt more sustainable practices, and Gosnells’ success story could serve as a catalyst for broader change.
The road ahead
As cities and towns worldwide grapple with the challenges of climate change, Gosnells’ initiative demonstrates how targeted actions at the local level can drive meaningful change. The City’s collaboration with federal and state agencies highlights the importance of partnerships in achieving ambitious sustainability goals. By investing in electric vehicles, renewable energy, and accessible infrastructure, Gosnells is charting a course toward a sustainable future while directly benefiting its community.
This EV initiative by the City of Gosnells is more than just an upgrade to its fleet—it’s a statement of intent. The City is positioning itself as a forward-looking municipality that prioritizes environmental responsibility and fiscal prudence. As Mayor Lynes and Federal Member Keogh highlighted, this collaborative project offers a glimpse into what’s possible when different levels of government come together to address climate challenges. In doing so, Gosnells sets an example of sustainable development, showing how cities of all sizes can make tangible progress toward a cleaner and greener future.
