A new training initiative is equipping council mechanics with the skills needed to support the transition to electric vehicle fleets.
The New South Wales Government is supporting councils to strengthen their electric vehicle (EV) capabilities, with apprentice mechanics undertaking specialised training to service and maintain EV fleets.
Twelve apprentice mechanics from six Sydney councils recently completed a four-day EV workshop delivered by TAFE NSW in Western Sydney. The program provided hands-on training to build practical skills needed to support the growing shift to electric fleets.
The workshops are funded through the New South Wales Government’s $252 million Fresh Start program, which is supporting councils to employ an additional 1,300 apprentices, trainees and cadets across the state.
More than 1,100 participants are already working in councils under the program, helping to build a pipeline of skilled workers while creating local career pathways, particularly in regional areas.
The EV workshops are designed to equip apprentice mechanics with the technical expertise required as councils increasingly electrify their fleets. Training includes inspecting and maintaining battery EVs, safely depowering and reinitialising systems, and diagnosing faults in high-voltage components and safety systems.
Expanding EV workforce capability is a key focus of the New South Wales Government’s 2026 Electric Vehicle Strategy. Around $5 million is being invested to train approximately 2,000 mechanics in regional New South Wales to service EVs and associated charging infrastructure.
The state has also invested in more than 3,300 EV chargers across 1,200 locations, including service stations, regional centres, tourist destinations and residential areas.
New South Wales Minister for Local Government, Ron Hoenig, said the program is helping councils prepare for the transition to electric fleets.
“With current fuel costs, councils need support to future-proof their workforce and operations,” Hoenig said.
“The Fresh Start program is equipping mechanics with the skills needed to service electric vehicles and keep local services running.
“By building in-house capability, councils can reduce costs, retain jobs locally and ensure they are prepared for the shift already underway.”
Member for Prospect, Hugh McDermott, said the initiative reinforces the role of TAFE in delivering industry capability.
“This program ensures local mechanics have the skills needed to service the next generation of council fleets,” McDermott said.
United Services Union General Secretary, Graeme Kelly, said the initiative would help councils meet future workforce demands.
“This investment in apprentices and trainees will ensure councils are well placed to support the mechanical needs of future fleets,” Kelly said.
