Decision Maker: Council
Decision status: Recommendations Determined
Moved by Councillor Wilson (Arkins), seconded
by Councillor Maxwell -
It is resolved that:
(A)
Council
note:
(i)
many local
councils across Australia have introduced app-based parking payment options to
improve convenience for residents, businesses, and visitors;
(ii)
providing
a digital payment option alongside existing parking meters will offer greater
flexibility for users, particularly those who prefer contactless transactions
or wish to remotely extend their parking session within permitted limits;
(iii)
any new
parking payment technology must be seamlessly integrated with existing parking
meters, ensuring users can choose between app and meter, cash or card payments
without disruption;
(iv)
an
app-based system should prioritise user accessibility, including functionality
for those with disabilities, those who speak other languages, and clear
instructions for use; and
(v)
that
while expanding digital options, Council remains committed to ensuring that
residents and visitors who prefer or rely on physical meters and cash payments
can continue to use them without disadvantage;
(B)
Council
support:
(i)
the
introduction of an app-based parking payment system that complements existing
parking meters, rather than replacing them;
(ii)
a
procurement process that prioritises user-friendly and accessible technology
with proven integration capabilities, ensuring compatibility between app
payments, parking meters, and enforcement systems;
(iii)
public
education and communication efforts to ensure residents, businesses, and
visitors understand how to use the app alongside traditional payment methods;
and
(iv)
ongoing monitoring of the system’s effectiveness,
with a review after 12 months to assess uptake, user experience, and any
operational challenges; and
(C)
the
Chief Executive Officer be requested to:
(i)
investigate
suitable app-based parking payment solutions and report back to Council on
capability and features, integration requirements, and costs;
(ii)
ensure
any selected system is fully compatible with Council’s existing enforcement
software and does not create inconsistencies in parking compliance;
(iii)
develop
an implementation timeline that includes a public awareness campaign, staff
training, and a transition period for users; and
(iv)
report
to Council within 6 months on progress and expected timelines for introducing
the new payment option.
Carried unanimously.
X113758
Report author: Erin Cashman
Publication date: 17/02/2025
Date of decision: 17/02/2025
Decided at meeting: 17/02/2025 - Council
Accompanying Documents: