Freedom day brings increase in off-street parking
By Stuart Norman, Parking Australia CEO
‘Freedom Day’ in Sydney saw an increase in off-street parking volumes. While the increase was not great, as workers who can work from home are still advised to do so, it is hoped that the increase is a sign of things to come.
With vaccination rates getting close to those required for opening-up under the national plan, we are starting to see increased traffic volumes right around the country. While traffic volumes do not correlate to parking volumes, it is a sign of increased confidence in the community starting to move again.
After such lengthy lockdowns in Melbourne and Sydney, it is our hope that state governments will stick to the agreed national plan, not only in releasing those within closed states but also that the relaxation of state borders will benefit suppliers and national operators.
Infrastructure Reports
Following the tabling of the Infrastructure Victoria’s 30-year strategy document in August, which proposed an increase to the Melbourne Congestion Levy in terms of area and amount, Infrastructure Australia released their 2021 Infrastructure Plan. Unlike the Victorian plan, the Infrastructure Australia plan identifies car parking as an area which requires addressing and further investment.
The plan addresses the need for more commuter car parking, EV charging in both public and private car parks, and land use for buildings (including car parks and capital city parking levies). Most importantly, the plan identifies the need to include parking as part of the mobility solutions and doesn’t just focus on physical infrastructure, but also the need for platforms that enhance commuters’ mobility options.
2021 Parking Industry Awards
With the current border restrictions still in place around the country and PACE having been pushed back to May 2022, we will be running the 2021 Parking Awards virtually, to be held on Wednesday 10 November.
I’d like to thank the industry for the continued support of the Awards. In particular, our major sponsor SKIDATA, and our award category sponsors; Care Park, Logical Line Marking, Smart Parking, GET Electric, EasyPark and DCA, for their support.
I trust we’ll get to see you (on screen) on the 10 November, as we acknowledge the achievements of those in the parking industry.
Click here to learn about registration for the virtual event