Sustainable Transport In Our Shire

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Transport plays a major role in our everyday lives; it also contributes significantly to local emissions. In Wingecarribee around 11% of total emissions come from transport. Shifting how we move around is an important part of meeting our sustainability goals and creating a healthier, more connected community.

Strategic Alignment of Priorities:

In line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) our focus and work in this space relates to SDG 3, 9 and 11: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages, Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialisation and foster innovation and Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable, respectively.

Locally, this ties into The Community Strategic Plan 2035 (CSP), 2.1: We can get to the places we want to be. The Community Emissions Action Plan (CEAP) focus area 2, Accelerate the transition to more sustainable transport solutions in the Shire.

One of the most promising changes is the rapid growth of electric and hybrid vehicles. In 2024/2025, 25% of new vehicle purchases in NSW were EVs or hybrids, showing that residents are increasingly choosing cleaner options.

To assist this transition an EV charging map has been created by Transport for NSW to assist with planning your trip.

Our Integrated Transport Strategy also places a strong emphasis on active transport - walking and cycling on improved and better-connected pathways, and easier public transport - because reducing car dependency not only lowers emissions but also improves health and builds vibrant local neighbourhoods. Choosing a bike, train or bus instead of a car for short trips makes a measurable difference.

Council Support for Expanding EV Infrastructure in our LGA

Council recognises that electric vehicle charging infrastructure (EVCI) is critical to supporting the growing number of EV owners and attracting visitors to our region. With EVs, including plug-in hybrid vehicles, accounting for approximately 2% of Australian registered vehicles, expanding local charging infrastructure will help ensure our shire remains an attractive and accessible destination (Electric Vehicle Council, 2025).  

Council welcomes opportunities for Charge Point Operators (CPOs) to investigate suitable EVCI locations on both Council-owned and privately-owned land across the shire. Businesses in particular can benefit from EV charger installation on their land, where site conditions and demand are suitable, as it can provide a competitive advantage, attract EV drivers and demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility. Increasing the availability of charging stations across our shire encourages EV drivers to visit and spend more time in our towns and villages. EV drivers often utilise local businesses and services while their vehicles are charging.  

Council has adopted an Electric Vehicle Charging Stations on Public Land Policy which outlines Council’s requirements for CPOs seeking to investigate installation of EVCI on Council land in our region. By supporting investment in EVCI, Council aims to boost visitation, increase local economic activity, and position the region as an EV-friendly destination. 

Residents Can Make a Positive Impact by:

  • Considering an electric or hybrid vehicle when purchasing your next car.

  • Using the EV charging map to plan sustainable travel.

  • Choosing walking or cycling for short local trips.

  • Taking advantage of public transport options where possible.

Sustainable transport is not just about reducing emissions; it’s about creating more liveable streets, reducing traffic in the heart of our main towns, and improving our quality of life. By making small shifts in how we travel, residents can help our community move toward a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient future.

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