In response to the growing popularity of electric vehicles, the government of New South Wales (NSW) put in place tougher new rules in 2025 regarding fuel-powered vehicles that block electric vehicle (EV) charging bays. These new changes place great fines on irresponsible parking in an effort to support the adoption of electric vehicles. These new laws focus on creating charging access for vehicles as the state moves toward cleaner vehicles.
Reasoning for the New Laws
Increased instances of fuel-powered vehicles parking in charging spots (also referred to as “ICEing”) EVs, disrupt the adoption of electric vehicles for drivers who rely on public charging stations. Govenment of New South Wales’ most recent response to this has been the introduction of new laws sustained by the addition of greater fines on this behaviour. This reinforces their support toward the installation of sustainable transport infrastructure.
New Penalties Fine Details
According to the new state rules, all petrol and other non electric vehicles occupying an EV charging bay in New South Wale will incur a fine of up to $2,200. The penalty aims to the Road Rules 2014 (NSW) which applies to all vehicles including fossil fuelled cars and to EVs parked in a charging bay without charging. The fine is among the highest in the country which shows the state’s commitment to keeping important charging bays open for electric vehicles.
Effects on Drivers and the Wider Community
The expectation of increased awareness on the part of all drivers would come from the increased fine amounts. Responsible enforcement of the new fines will reduce casrs being ICEd, helping EV drivers, particularly those with charging infrastructure, to more easily use their vehicles. This is in stark contrast to other states like Victoria and South Australia who impose significantly lower fines. This difference highlights the focus on enforcement and the seriousness with which NSW plans to treat the new fines.
Implementing More EV Charging Facilities
The penalties are added as part of the broader EV strategies in NSW which also include the spending of millions on EV public charging stations. As the government builds on the public charging stations, these laws are necessary in making sure the new chargers are easily reached and the network fulfills its purpose. This is aimed at the continued promotion of making zero-emission vehicles as the vehicles of choice across the State.
Charging and Future Directions
NSW takes on the vanguard in the making of laws, and the public are asked to use the laws as designed in the making in reporting crimes. Shopping malls and other commercial parking places in the private sector are also asked to work together with local governments in the making of parking rules which allows EV charging stations to stay free to accommodate the growing need.
Form Data Table
| Offence | Fine Amount |
|---|---|
| Petrol car blocking EV charging bay | $2,200 |
| EV parked but not charging in bay | $128 |
FAQs
Q1: Can electric cars be fined for not charging while parked in a bay?
Yes, charging EVs parked in a charging bay without charging are subjected to penalties.
Q2: How does NSW’s fine compare to other states?
With some states like Victoria only charging $370, the $2,200 fine in NSW is one of the highest in Australia.
Q3: Who enforces the new laws on private parking lots?
Private operators can ask the council to enforce laws, but it is often the voluntary cooperation of the councils and car park owners which is needed.
New South Wales (NSW) is working toward greener transport and the introduction of these regulations is proof of that goal. Fines that are set at higher amounts are meant to educate the public and deter them from breaking the regulations.
