Australia's vast distances once presented a significant challenge for electric vehicle owners. Today, an extensive and growing network of charging stations is making EV road trips not just possible, but genuinely practical and enjoyable. From coastal highways to outback adventures, electric vehicles are increasingly exploring every corner of the country.
This guide provides everything you need to know about planning and executing an EV road trip across Australia. We'll cover route planning, charging infrastructure, essential apps, practical tips from experienced EV travellers, and strategies for handling Australia's unique conditions.
The State of Australian EV Charging Infrastructure
Australia's public charging network has expanded dramatically in recent years. Major highway routes between capital cities are now well-served by fast charging stations, with gaps continuing to close. However, the network isn't uniform, and understanding its current state helps with realistic planning.
Major Charging Networks
- Chargefox: Australia's largest network with ultra-rapid chargers (up to 350kW) along major highways. Extensive coverage from Brisbane to Adelaide via Sydney and Melbourne.
- Tesla Supercharger: Excellent coverage for Tesla owners, increasingly opening to other brands at selected locations.
- NRMA: Strong presence in NSW and ACT, including regional destinations.
- Evie Networks: Focus on ultra-rapid charging at convenient locations.
- AmpCharge (Ampol), BP Pulse: Fuel retailers adding EV charging to their networks.
- Destination chargers: Hotels, wineries, and tourist attractions increasingly offer Level 2 charging for guests.
📊 Current Coverage Snapshot (January 2026)
The major highway routes between Sydney-Melbourne, Sydney-Brisbane, and Melbourne-Adelaide have fast chargers approximately every 100-200km. Western Australia's Perth-Esperance and Perth-Geraldton routes are well-served. Remote routes like the Nullarbor, Stuart Highway, and outback Queensland require more careful planning with current infrastructure.
Planning Your Route: Essential Apps and Tools
Successful EV road trips start with good planning. These tools are invaluable:
A Better Route Planner (ABRP)
The gold standard for EV trip planning. ABRP considers your specific vehicle's efficiency, battery size, and real-world factors like elevation changes and temperature to calculate optimal charging stops. It shows charging time needed at each stop and total trip time. The premium version offers real-time traffic and weather adjustments.
PlugShare
The most comprehensive database of charging locations, including user reviews, real-time availability reports, and photos. Essential for checking charger status and finding alternative options. Users can report outages and share tips about specific locations.
Network Apps
Each charging network has its own app for starting sessions and payment. Download apps for Chargefox, Evie, NRMA, and any other networks you'll encounter before your trip. Create accounts and add payment methods in advance—struggling with app registration at a remote charger is frustrating.
Your Vehicle's Navigation
Modern EVs include charging-aware navigation that routes you via appropriate chargers and preconditions the battery for optimal charging speed. Use it in conjunction with external planners for best results.
💡 The Buffer Rule
Never plan to arrive at a charger with less than 10-15% battery remaining. Unexpected detours, headwinds, or finding a charger occupied or faulty can turn a tight plan into a stressful situation. Build buffer into every leg of your journey.
Practical Charging Tips for Australian Conditions
Heat Management
Australian summers challenge EV batteries. High temperatures can reduce range and slow charging speeds as the battery management system protects cells from heat damage. Consider:
- Driving earlier in the morning or later in the evening during heat waves
- Parking in shade when possible, especially while charging
- Pre-conditioning your vehicle while still plugged in at home to cool the cabin and battery using grid power
- Expecting slightly reduced range in extreme heat
Cold Weather Considerations
Alpine trips and cold southern winters also affect range and charging. Cold batteries accept charge more slowly. Pre-heating the battery before arriving at a fast charger (many vehicles do this automatically via navigation) improves charging speed. Expect 10-20% range reduction in cold conditions.
Maximising Charging Speed
Charging speed depends on multiple factors. To charge as quickly as possible:
- Arrive at chargers with battery temperature in optimal range (driving heats the battery naturally)
- Use the vehicle's navigation to trigger battery preconditioning
- Charge from lower states of charge—the first 20-80% is much faster than 80-100%
- Choose chargers with power ratings your vehicle can utilise (no point using a 350kW charger if your vehicle maxes at 100kW)
Route-Specific Advice
Sydney to Melbourne (Hume Highway)
Well-served by multiple networks with fast chargers approximately every 100km. A comfortable one-day drive in most EVs with one or two charging stops. The Chargefox ultra-rapid station at Holbrook is a popular midpoint stop.
Sydney to Brisbane (Pacific Highway)
Good coverage with multiple charging options along the route. Consider breaking into a two-day trip to enjoy coastal towns and avoid rushing between chargers. The inland New England Highway has fewer charging options—check current coverage before choosing this route.
Melbourne to Adelaide (Western Highway)
Improving coverage with chargers at key towns. Plan stops carefully, particularly around the Bordertown-Tailem Bend section. Allow flexibility for potential charger availability issues.
Perth and Western Australia
Perth to major regional centres like Geraldton, Bunbury, and Esperance are increasingly viable. The RAC EV highway has added significant infrastructure. Outback WA routes require careful planning and may not yet be suitable for all EVs.
The Nullarbor
This iconic crossing is becoming possible for EVs, but requires careful planning and a vehicle with sufficient range. Charger spacing is gradually improving. Check current infrastructure and consider the availability of backup charging at roadhouses. This remains an adventure rather than a routine trip.
✅ Destination Charging Strategy
Plan overnight stops at accommodation with charging facilities when possible. Waking up to a full battery eliminates the need for a morning fast-charge session and provides maximum flexibility for the day ahead. Many hotels, motels, and caravan parks now offer EV charging.
What to Bring on an EV Road Trip
- Portable EVSE: A portable charger that connects to standard outlets provides emergency backup charging. Slow, but could save you from being stranded.
- Extension cable (heavy-duty): For reaching distant outlets when using portable charging
- Charging cables: Your Type 2 cable for destination chargers that require user-supplied cables
- Power bank: For keeping phones charged independent of vehicle battery
- Paper maps: Technology can fail—having backup navigation is prudent in remote areas
- Snacks and entertainment: Charging stops are perfect for picnics, podcasts, and exploring local towns
Embracing the EV Road Trip Mindset
EV road tripping is different from petrol travel—and many drivers find it better. Charging stops become opportunities rather than interruptions. You discover towns you'd otherwise pass through. You save significantly on fuel costs. And you travel knowing you're not contributing to air pollution along the route.
The keys to enjoying EV travel are flexibility and planning. Know your route, have backup options, and embrace the slightly slower pace. With Australia's charging network expanding rapidly, the EV road trip experience improves with each passing month.
The Future is Bright
Government investment, private enterprise, and growing EV adoption are driving rapid infrastructure expansion across Australia. Routes that require careful planning today will have abundant charging options within a few years. By starting your EV road trip journey now, you're joining a community of pioneers proving that electric travel across Australia is not just possible—it's increasingly enjoyable.
Plan well, stay flexible, and enjoy the journey!