Putting a handbrake on hidden fees from parking apps

Motorists would no longer be stung by surprise surcharges when using pay parking apps under changes proposed by the Minns Labor Government.

Instead, local councils will be required to

ensure all motorists pay only the signposted cost of parking.

Councils across NSW have been adopting ticketless parking systems but some drivers have complained about hidden charges that can add more than ten per cent to the total cost of parking, including reminder notifications that cost 34 cents each time they are sent.

The apps can help councils reduce the cost of administering parking and provide valuable data on demand in their area. Some apps also allow consumers to ‘top up’ parking payment without returning to their car.

Under current laws in NSW, the cost of administering a pay parking scheme must be borne by parking authorities, which includes local councils.

The NSW Government will consult with parking authorities to clarify that parking charges as signposted on the street or advertised must be the total cost paid without any additional surcharges for services by the apps.

Parking authorities will be given the chance to provide feedback into how the Pay Parking and Controlled Loading Zone Guidelines are updated and input into any challenges associated.

Last month, the NSW Government put on notice councils that run two-tiered beach car parking schemes that favour homeowners over renters that changes will also be made in that area.

Last year, the Government updated the parking Guidelines to require that street parking duration is of a minimum one hour when it is combined with permit holder exemptions.

Minister for Roads John Graham said:

“Councils need to read the signs - motorists are not happy about being slugged with hidden fees on top of the cost of parking.

“Many motorists have been surprised and annoyed to find out the friendly reminder that their parking is running out comes with its own sting in the tail of another 34 cents on top of the bill.

“The cost to park should be just as it says on the sign regardless of how you pay. It’s a simple concept that we want all councils to get onboard with and we are inviting their feedback to help shape improvements for the consumer.

“In general, ticketless parking is there to make payment easier and more convenient for users and reminders are a good thing to avoid the headache of a parking fine. Data on parking demand is also invaluable for making improvements at street level.”