Public EV Charging in Queensland: What You Should Know Before You Hit the Road
Queensland is rapidly expanding its public EV charging infrastructure, making it easier than ever for electric vehicle (EV) owners to explore the state with confidence. From regional towns to major highways, new charging stations are appearing every month. However, if you’re new to EV ownership or planning your first road trip, it’s important to understand how public charging works, what costs to expect, and how to plan ahead for a smooth journey.
In this guide, we’ll cover where to find chargers, how charging speed varies, what impacts cost, and how to make the most of Queensland’s growing EV network. We’ll also discuss charger etiquette, safety tips, and why home charging remains the most convenient solution for everyday driving.
Where to Find Public Chargers
Public chargers in Queensland are provided by a mix of networks, including Chargefox, Evie, Tesla, and local councils. Locations range from shopping centres and council car parks to dedicated highway service hubs. High-powered DC fast chargers are increasingly being installed on long-distance routes such as the Bruce Highway, making it feasible to travel between Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, Hervey Bay, and all the way to Cairns or outback Queensland.
Apps such as PlugShare, Chargefox, and Evie provide real-time maps, showing charger availability, network type, and compatible connectors. These tools are essential for planning a trip, as they not only indicate the location of chargers but also display user reviews and tips from other EV drivers.
How Charging Speed Varies
Charging speed depends on two main factors: the charger itself and your vehicle’s onboard capability. Public chargers are generally split into two categories:
- **AC chargers (Level 2):** These are typically 7 kW or 22 kW units found in shopping centres or workplaces. They are slower but convenient when you’ll be parked for several hours.
- **DC fast chargers:** Ranging from 50 kW to 350 kW, these bypass the vehicle’s onboard charger and deliver power directly to the battery. At the higher end, a 350 kW charger can add 300 km of range in under 20 minutes for vehicles that support ultra-fast charging.
Your car’s maximum charging rate will determine the benefit you get from faster stations. For example, if your EV supports a maximum of 100 kW, plugging into a 350 kW station won’t provide additional speed beyond that limit.
Understanding Charging Costs
Public charging costs vary widely depending on the network and location. Some chargers are free, often provided by local councils or businesses as an incentive to attract visitors. Others charge by the kilowatt-hour (kWh), similar to how you pay for electricity at home, while some fast-charging sites may also include a per-minute fee to encourage turnover.
Typical costs in Queensland range from $0.25 to $0.60 per kWh. At the higher end, this is still generally cheaper than petrol when measured on a per-kilometre basis. Networks like Chargefox and Evie offer membership discounts, and apps allow you to check prices before you arrive.
Planning Longer Trips
Unlike petrol stations, EV chargers are not yet everywhere, so careful planning is essential for long trips. This means identifying chargers along your route, estimating how long you’ll need to stop, and factoring in charging breaks as part of your journey. Many EV drivers plan meal or coffee stops around charging times, making the process more convenient.
Range anxiety is quickly decreasing as networks expand, but in regional areas you should always have a backup plan in case your first-choice charger is unavailable. Carrying your vehicle’s portable charging cable allows you to access standard power points in an emergency, though at much slower speeds.
Public Charging Etiquette
As more drivers use public charging, etiquette is becoming increasingly important. Some key points include:
- Don’t occupy a charging bay longer than necessary — move your car once charging is complete.
- Avoid unplugging other vehicles unless absolutely necessary and permitted.
- Leave cables neatly stowed to prevent trip hazards and damage.
- Report faulty chargers through the network’s app so others are aware.
Following good etiquette ensures that charging remains accessible and stress-free for everyone.
Safety Considerations at Public Chargers
Safety is just as important at public charging stations as it is at home. Cables stretched across footpaths or driveways can create trip hazards, so always ensure they are positioned neatly. Many stations include integrated cable management systems to help with this.
Public chargers are designed to be weather-resistant, but it’s still best practice to avoid charging in deep puddles or leaving cables under mechanical stress. Always check that the connector is securely latched into your vehicle before starting a session.
Regular maintenance and inspection of public chargers is handled by the network operator, but drivers should be alert to any obvious damage and report it through the relevant app.
Why Home Charging is Still the Best Option
Public charging is excellent for road trips and occasional top-ups, but most Queensland EV owners rely on home charging for day-to-day use. A dedicated wall charger allows you to plug in overnight and start each day with a full battery, often at far lower cost than public networks. With the added benefit of solar integration for many households, home charging remains the most practical and affordable solution.
The Bottom Line
Queensland’s public EV charging network is expanding rapidly, giving drivers more freedom to travel longer distances with confidence. By understanding the differences between charger types, planning ahead, and following good etiquette, you can make the most of this growing infrastructure. For everyday use, home charging remains the most convenient solution, but the future of road trips in an EV has never looked brighter.