The Victorian Government has announced a significant AU$5 million investment in a new program to train 14,300 electric vehicle (EV) charger installers by 2030. Unveiled on July 13, 2026, this initiative directly addresses a critical workforce shortage identified as a key barrier to the accelerated adoption of EVs across the state.

This fully funded training program, part of Victoria’s broader Electrification Skills Program for 2026-27, is designed to ensure a robust and skilled workforce is available to support the burgeoning EV charging infrastructure. The move is expected to streamline the installation process for both residential and public charging points, ultimately making EV ownership more accessible and convenient for Victorians.

Addressing a Critical Workforce Gap

The projected fourfold increase in the EV charging workforce to 14,300 by 2030 highlights the urgent need for such a program. As EV sales continue their upward trajectory, the demand for qualified technicians to install and maintain charging stations has outpaced current supply. This bottleneck has, in some instances, led to extended waiting times and increased costs for consumers and businesses looking to electrify their transport.

“This suite of fully funded training will help Victorian households and businesses get off gas and save on their energy bills, while helping to ensure their systems are installed safely and to industry standards.”

– Lily D’Ambrosio, Victoria’s Energy and Resources Minister

The AU$5 million, three-year investment under the Victorian Energy Jobs Plan will see training delivered through Solar Victoria, in collaboration with leading educational institutions like TAFE Gippsland, Holmesglen, and industry body NECA Education and Careers. The training will be free for eligible workers, aiming to rapidly upskill the existing electrical workforce and attract new talent into the sector.

Accelerating Victoria’s EV Ambitions

This training initiative builds upon Victoria’s ambitious zero-emissions vehicle (ZEV) roadmap, which targets 50% of all new light vehicle sales in the state to be ZEVs by 2030. Achieving this target relies heavily on the widespread availability of reliable and efficient charging infrastructure. By proactively addressing the skills gap, the government aims to accelerate the rollout of both home and public charging solutions.

In April 2026, the Victorian Government also released its EV charging regulatory statement, outlining steps to further unlock the rollout of chargers and drive the transition to EVs. The current training program is a direct outcome of these strategic efforts, recognising that policy alone is insufficient without the skilled labour to implement it.

Implications for EV Owners and the Broader Grid

For current and prospective EV owners in Victoria, this investment signals a commitment to improving the charging experience. A larger pool of trained installers should lead to:

  • Reduced Installation Times: Quicker turnaround for home charger installations, making the transition to an EV smoother. Prospective buyers can explore options like those detailed in our Best EV Home Chargers in Australia 2026: A Buyer’s Guide to Costs and Installation.
  • Lower Costs: Increased competition among installers could potentially drive down installation costs over time.
  • Enhanced Reliability: Properly trained technicians ensure installations adhere to safety and industry standards, reducing faults and improving the longevity of charging infrastructure.
  • Expanded Public Network: A skilled workforce is essential for the rapid deployment of new public fast chargers, particularly in regional areas where charging options can still be limited. Understanding the operational costs of these chargers is crucial, as highlighted in our guide to Slash EV Charging Costs by Up To $800/Year: Best Electricity Plans in Australia 2026.

The broader electrification skills package also includes training for switchboard upgrades for home electrification, reverse-cycle air conditioner installation, and heat pump hot water system design. This holistic approach aims to support households and businesses in transitioning away from gas, aligning with the state’s decarbonisation goals.

A National Push for EV Skills

Victoria’s focus on workforce development mirrors similar initiatives seen across Australia. New South Wales, for instance, has committed AU$100 million in its 2026 Electric Vehicle Strategy, which includes dedicated investment in training approximately 2,000 mechanics in regional NSW to service EVs and charging infrastructure. TAFE NSW already offers 13 micro-skills courses in EV maintenance, demonstrating a national recognition of the need for specialised EV skills.

As more Australians consider making the switch to electric, understanding the ecosystem, from vehicle selection to charging infrastructure, becomes increasingly important. Our From Petrol to Plug: The Ultimate First-Time Buyer’s Guide to Switching to an EV in Australia 2026 provides a comprehensive overview for those embarking on their EV journey.

This latest Victorian government investment is a pragmatic step towards building the necessary infrastructure and human capital to support a cleaner, more electrified transport future, ensuring the state remains at the forefront of Australia’s EV transition.