Blocking EV charging spots with regular cars is illegal across Australia. The fines vary by region. The lowest fine is $63 in the Northern Territory and Tasmania. Western Australia charges up to $100 while South Australia issues fines up to $250. Victoria has set their fine at $370. New South Wales can charge offenders up to $2200. Queensland’s fine goes up to $2,875. The highest penalty is in the Australian Capital Territory at $3,200. These rules help keep charging spots free for electric vehicles.
Why Are Penalties for Petrol Cars at EV Bays So Harsh?
The fines help keep gas and diesel cars away from EV charging spots in Australia. This is important as the country builds more charging stations. The rules also stop electric car owners from staying too long at charging bays. This means more EV drivers can use the spots when they need to charge their cars.
Legal Measures and Community Reactions Across Australia
The rules apply to both gas cars blocking charging spots and electric cars that stay too long after charging. These problems stop other drivers from using the chargers properly. Police can give out fines based on state traffic laws. The public needs to learn about EV charging rules through road signs & traffic laws. Most drivers follow these rules and understand why they matter.
Smart Parking Habits and Practical Guidance for Drivers
Don’t park in EV charging spots unless you’re actually charging an electric car. If you own an EV make sure to move your car when it’s done charging. Regular car drivers should park in normal parking spots and stay away from EV chargers. If you park a non-electric car in an EV spot you can get a fine. The fines for blocking EV chargers with regular cars are pretty serious in Australia. You might have to pay up to $2200. Other states also give out fines: South Australia charges up to $250 Western Australia up to $100 and Tasmania up to $63. These rules help keep charging spots free for electric cars that need them.
