Perth CBD Parking Changes Under Consideration
The City of Perth is considering a proposal that would modify parking fees and free parking incentives across several car parks in the Perth central business district. The proposed changes, detailed in a report by commercial services general manager Steven Holden, could take effect from March 30 if supported by the council.
Proposed Parking Adjustments
Significant changes are on the table for Perth's CBD parking, impacting both free parking duration and hourly rates. The proposal outlines specific adjustments for various car parks:
- Free parking at the Pier Street, Cultural Centre, and His Majesty’s Theatre car parks would decrease from three hours to two hours.
- The one-hour free parking period at Point Fraser car park would be eliminated entirely.
- Hourly rates in boom-gated car parks could increase by 50 cents, with weekday day rates rising by $1.
- Weekend and night rates would not change.
- Meter prices at non-boom gated car parks are expected to remain stable.
The most notable proposed shifts include a reduction in free parking duration at key locations and a complete removal of free parking at Point Fraser.
Rationale Behind the Changes
The report indicates that these changes aim to encourage faster turnover in congested areas, improve parking space access, and ensure more equitable use of facilities. The City currently provides $5 million in free parking incentives to boost city visitation.
Parking revenue is deemed crucial for funding infrastructure, activating events, and limiting rate increases for residents and businesses.
Mobile App Fee Policy Shift
The City of Perth also proposes to cease subsidizing the 11.5% service fee charged by the EasyPark mobile app. This subsidy was initially intended as a short-term promotional phase.
With over 80% of motorists now utilizing the app, the City intends to transition to a "user-pays" model, where the convenience fee is paid directly by the user to the app provider.
Projected Financial Impact
If approved, the new fee structure is projected to generate substantial additional revenue for the City.
- An additional $1 million is projected in the 2025-26 financial year.
- This figure is expected to rise to $4 million in 2026-27.
The removal of free parking at Point Fraser alone is estimated to contribute $400,000 annually.
Context and Upcoming Review
In February of the previous year, the council approved increases to parking fees, discontinued free night parking, and introduced charges for electric vehicle charging facilities. The current proposal is scheduled for council consideration at its February 24 meeting.