The announcement represents the first tranche of the $71.9 million Future Fuels Fund announced in the 20/21 Federal Budget.

Proposed fast charging stations in each capital city plus Newcastle, Wollongong, the NSW Central Coast, Geelong, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast will be eligible.

Each region is expected to receive at least four fast charging stations. Applicants should be able to provide coverage across the relevant area, and be in a position to have the charging stations up and running within two years.

Stations receiving funding must be powered by renewable electricity.

Subsequent Future Fuels Fund rounds will address hydrogen and biofuels, and provide support for business fleets transitioning to battery EVs,

"Through this initial round, we are addressing one of the barriers to roll out of new vehicle technologies by significantly increasing the number of fast charging stations available to consumers across Australia, and reducing charging blackspots in both metropolitan and regional centres," said ARENA CEO Darren Miller.

"This funding by the Australian Government will stimulate the fast charging market and drive private sector investment, and will build on our considerable body of work in this sector.

"As electric vehicles continue to become more competitive, it is important we have the recharging infrastructure in place to give motorists confidence they can choose an EV and recharge it conveniently and cost effectively."

ARENA has already supported EV charging projects to the tune of $29.7 million.