NSW Strata Law Changes Make EV Charging Easier: What You Need to Know
Electric vehicles (EVs) are rapidly becoming a normal part of Australian life — and NSW strata legislation has just taken a big step to keep pace. Recent changes under the Strata Schemes Management Amendment (Sustainability Infrastructure) Act 2021 make it easier for strata buildings to approve and install EV charging infrastructure.
What Has Changed?
Previously, installing EV chargers in strata buildings was often bogged down by complicated approval processes. Proposals were usually treated as “special resolutions”, requiring at least 75% of owners to vote yes — a high bar that often stalled progress.
Under the new rules, EV charger installations are now classified as “sustainability infrastructure”. This means:
Only a simple majority vote (over 50%) at a general meeting is needed to approve EV charging projects.
Committees can more easily pass by-laws that set out how chargers are installed, used, and maintained.
The legal framework encourages buildings to future-proof for EV uptake without unnecessary red tape.
What This Means for Strata Committees
Strata committees now have:
Streamlined decision-making – No need to chase an overwhelming majority.
Clearer authority to plan, budget, and roll out EV charging infrastructure.
An opportunity to add value – EV charging facilities are increasingly seen as a selling point for apartments.
A responsibility to set fair rules – Committees still need to ensure chargers are safe, costs are allocated fairly, and installation plans work for the building’s capacity.
What This Means for Residents
For residents, the new laws mean:
Fewer roadblocks – Your request for an EV charger is more likely to be approved.
Shared benefits – Common area chargers can be used by multiple residents, reducing the cost per person.
Higher property appeal – Even if you don’t own an EV yet, having chargers installed can increase property value.
Still some costs involved – Installation and usage fees will be subject to by-laws and agreements with the strata.
Moving Forward
With NSW pushing for wider EV adoption, strata buildings that move early will be ahead of the curve. To take advantage of the new legislation:
Review your by-laws – Update them to reflect the new sustainability infrastructure framework.
Conduct a site assessment – Understand your building’s electrical capacity and best charger placement.
Engage residents early – Share the benefits and cost-sharing options to build support.
Consider grant funding – NSW government programs are available to help offset installation costs.
The road to EV adoption is now smoother for strata buildings. With the legal hurdles lowered, it’s the perfect time for committees and residents to collaborate on making their building EV-ready.
🚀 How we can help?
At Future Charging Solutions, we specialise in helping strata buildings navigate EV charger installations from start to finish. From site assessments and design to installation, commissioning, and ongoing support, we provide tailored solutions that save time and ensure compliance with the new legislation.
Get in touch with us today to make your building EV-ready and future-proof for the growing EV market.
