Home charging in Australia and New Zealand is simpler than in many markets: homes run on 230 V, and almost every current EV uses the same Type 2 connector. You need one of two setups — a portable charger plugged into an ordinary power point (about 2.3 kW), or a dedicated wallbox on its own circuit (7 kW single-phase, or 11–22 kW in three-phase homes). Any fixed wiring is licensed work in both countries, so a wallbox always goes in through a licensed electrician.
Key Takeaways
- AU and NZ homes: 230 V supply, Type 2 connector on almost every current EV.
- A power-point portable gives about 2.3 kW; a 7 kW wallbox covers most homes.
- Three-phase homes can reach 11–22 kW if the car accepts it.
- Fixed wiring is licensed work — budget for an electrician, and buy certified chargers.
The Two Things That Are Standard: 230 V and Type 2
Both countries use a 230 V household supply, and Type 2 is the standard AC connector, so home chargers are not a compatibility lottery. Our Type 2 vs J1772 vs NACS comparison shows how the plugs differ by market. One exception matters in New Zealand especially: many older used imports have a Type 1 socket instead. Check the car’s inlet before you buy any charger, because the cable has to match the car, not the country.
| Setup | Power | Time to add 40 kWh | What it takes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portable charger on a standard 10 A power point | About 2.3 kW | About 17 hours | No installation; use the socket your home already has |
| Wallbox, single-phase dedicated circuit | About 7 kW (32 A) | About 6 hours | Licensed electrician, dedicated circuit |
| Wallbox, three-phase home | 11–22 kW | About 2–4 hours | Three-phase supply and a car that can accept it |
What to Check at Your Home Before You Buy
- Supply type. Most homes are single-phase. Three-phase exists in some larger and newer homes and is what unlocks 11–22 kW; your electrician or switchboard labels will confirm which you have.
- Switchboard capacity. A 7 kW charger is a large continuous load. The electrician checks spare capacity and fits the protective devices your state or territory rules require.
- Charger certification. Chargers sold for the Australian market should carry the right local approvals. Our guide to EV charger certification in Australia (SAA, RCM, EESS) explains what to look for, and it is worth reading before importing any unit yourself.
- Where the car parks. Cable length and a weather-rated unit matter if the car lives in a carport or driveway rather than a garage.
Timing, Tariffs and Solar
Electricity plans differ by state and retailer, and many offer cheaper off-peak or EV-specific rates, so compare plans once you know your charging hours. A wallbox or portable unit with scheduling lets the car charge inside the cheap window automatically. Homes with rooftop solar often charge in the middle of the day instead, using their own generation. Looking further ahead, ARENA’s bidirectional charging roadmap sets out where vehicle-to-home charging in Australia is heading, and our Australia bidirectional charging article covers what is available now.
For equipment, the EV-ACS3210E is a 32 A Type 2 portable charger (single-phase, about 7 kW, IP66) suited to a dedicated socket or circuit, and the EV-ACT3204PE is a 22 kW Type 2 wallbox with RFID and app control for homes that want a fixed unit. Set a portable unit’s current to match the circuit it is actually plugged into, and let your electrician confirm the setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I charge from a normal power point in Australia or New Zealand?
Yes, with the portable charger supplied with the car or a Type 2 portable unit set to the socket’s rating. It is slow (about 2.3 kW from a 10 A point), which suits low daily distances and overnight parking.
Do I need three-phase power for home charging?
No. A 7 kW single-phase wallbox refills most cars overnight. Three-phase only matters if you regularly need a full large battery in a few hours and your car can accept 11–22 kW AC.
Can I install a wallbox myself?
No. Fixed electrical work is licensed work in Australia and New Zealand. A licensed electrician must install the circuit and charger and confirm the switchboard can carry the load.
Related Reading
- EV Charger Certification for Australia: SAA, RCM and EESS Explained
- Is Bidirectional Charging Available in Australia?
- Type 2 vs J1772 vs NACS: Which EV Charger Connector Does Your Market Need?
