NECA Calls for Urgent Ring-Fencing Reform as NSW Government Launches EV Infrastructure Inquiry

The National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA) strongly welcomes the announcement by the NSW Legislative Assembly Committee on Transport and Infrastructure of an inquiry into ‘Infrastructure for electric and alternative energy source vehicles in NSW’.

The inquiry will examine the feasibility of alternative energy sources for freight and heavy vehicles, funding models for EV chargers, and the location and accessibility of charging stations across the state. Critically, it will also investigate the use of existing infrastructure and measures to ensure a genuinely competitive market — including long-overdue scrutiny of ring-fencing policies.

“This inquiry is not just overdue; it’s essential for the future of our industry and the delivery of fair outcomes for consumers,” said Oliver Judd, NECA CEO. “Current ring-fencing rules are failing to protect competition and are disadvantaging independent electrical contractors. It’s time for serious reform.”

As Australia moves towards a net zero economy, this type of scrutiny across funding models, market integrity, and infrastructure access is vital. The transition to cleaner transport solutions will only succeed if governments actively remove barriers to competition and ensure infrastructure is rolled out by the best-qualified providers. NECA commends the NSW Government for taking this proactive step.

NECA has long championed the need for a formal review of these issues and will be making a comprehensive submission to ensure the committee’s recommendations drive real, lasting change that supports the delivery of robust, accessible EV and alternative energy infrastructure across New South Wales.

“NECA represents thousands of electrical businesses who are at the coalface of delivering the infrastructure that will power our future,” Mr Judd said. “We will continue to lead this conversation, advocate for fair market conditions, and ensure that the rules governing competition are fit for purpose. If we want world-class infrastructure, we need world-class policy — and that starts with fixing ring-fencing.”

NECA also invites any electrical contractors, businesses, or stakeholders who wish to contribute to this important inquiry to contact NECA’s Government Relations team. Together, we can ensure the industry’s voice is heard and that future policies foster competition, fairness, and innovation.