Electric vehicles (EVs) are one of the essential components of Australia’s transition to Net Zero, yet delivering a resilient, equitable, and sustainable public charging network remains a complex infrastructure challenge. This work examines how Local Government can lead transformative change through delivery models that embed long-term environmental sustainability and circular economy principles into public EV infrastructure.
Based on a feasibility and assurance assessment undertaken for the City of Mitcham and City of Charles Sturt in South Australia through the Local Government Research and Development Scheme the analysis outlines practical strategies that leverage renewable energy, community energy networks, and underutilised assets such as Stobie poles, for cost-effective, low-emissions infrastructure delivery. These approaches reduce reliance on high-carbon inputs while supporting network efficiency and asset circularity.
The findings highlight how Local Governments can achieve multiple sustainability outcomes, emissions reduction, energy equity, and community resilience, by adopting ownership models that prioritise cost recovery, reinvestment, and public value over short-term profit. Particular emphasis is given to underserviced communities where the private sector may not adequately invest.
There is also a significant opportunity for Local Governments to capitalise on bidirectional charging and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) integration, positioning EVs as distributed energy assets that contribute to grid stability and decarbonisation. By using or augmenting existing infrastructure such as solar-powered public buildings and street assets councils can deliver smarter, more resilient energy systems while maximising public investment returns and minimising environmental impact.
The presentation will explore the opportunities, risks and considerations for local government to become more involved in the provision of EV charging.