As electric vehicles (EVs) become an increasingly common sight on Australian highways, road-tripping through regional Victoria is easier than ever.
Thanks to steady investments in charging infrastructure, East Gippsland is quickly transforming into an accessible, EV-friendly destination for eco-conscious motorists.
Navigating the region’s expansive distances was once a challenge for battery-powered transport, but a growing network of fast chargers now links major corridors along the Princes Highway and into the High Country.
Strategic charging hubs in key towns such as Bairnsdale, Sale, Lakes Entrance, Orbost and Cann River allow drivers to top up quickly while exploring local shops, cafes and waterfront reserves.
For those heading further off the beaten track, regional tourism operators and accommodation providers are stepping up to bridge the gap.
A growing number of holiday parks, motels and boutique stays across Metung, Mallacoota and Omeo now offer dedicated destination chargers, allowing guests to recharge overnight and wake up with a full battery.
Successful EV touring across East Gippsland simply requires a bit of forward planning.
Drivers are encouraged to use live mapping apps to verify charger availability and speed along their intended route, particularly when traveling through remote areas during peak holiday periods.
Range management should also account for regional driving factors – climbing steep High Country gradients or running air conditioning during hot summer trips will increase energy consumption.
Beyond lower running costs and zero tailpipe emissions, traveling by electric vehicle offers a quiet, smooth ride that pairs perfectly with East Gippsland’s serene landscapes.
As fast-charging networks continue to expand across regional Victoria, the future of road-tripping in the east has firmly arrived.
CHARGING LOCATIONS
Bairnsdale: Nicholson Street carpark (near St Mary’s Church and McDonalds)
Buchan: Main Road – note this is a 24kW DC dual plug unit
Cann River: Ward Street near Mick Baum Park
Mallacoota: 4 Greer Street – note this is currently set to 40kW until additional network capacity becomes available in April 2025
Orbost: 5 Wolseley St carpark (near the toilet and SES building)
Omeo: Tongio Road (100m south of Day Ave)
Lakes Entrance: Library carpark
