Image: An app that allows users to pay remotely for their parking has gone live in the Inner West.
Sydney motorists may soon avoid sneaky surcharges when using parking apps, as the Minns Government moves to ban hidden fees and require councils to charge only the signposted parking prices.
In a statement released on Saturday, NSW Roads Minister John Graham implored local councils to stop passing the buck to drivers and ensure the advertised parking prices are the final amount.
Graham’s call follows numerous complaints that third-party parking apps are adding steep service fees, sometimes beyond 10% of the total cost.
Parking apps promise convenience—but at a cost
Ticketless parking systems, offering ease of access via QR code and digital payment for flexible parking timings, have become the norm with councils across NSW. While they reduce admin costs and provide real-time data, many motorists report being hit with unexpected fees.
“Councils need to read the signs, motorists are fed up with being slugged with hidden fees on top of the cost of parking,” Graham said.
According to SMH, parking apps like EasyPark used in Parrammatta and Newcastle, charge an 11.5% service fee, while North Sydney’s PayStay system adds an 8.25% fee per transaction.
Some apps also charge 34 cents per reminder notification, leaving many drivers with a higher bill than expected.
NSW Government moves to ensure transparent parking fees
Under current NSW regulations, councils must bear responsibility for covering parking administration costs, not drivers. The government is cracking down on all parking authorities, including local councils, and may require them to absorb these fees or negotiate fairer deals with service providers.
Despite driver frustrations, Graham also acknowledges that digital parking has its benefits, making payment easier and helping drivers avoid fines.
“In general, ticketless parking is there to make payment more convenient 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.”
However, he insists that extra fees must be rid.
“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,” said Graham.
The government will consult with councils for feedback in making necessary changes in the Pay Parking and Controlled Loading Zone Guidelines, ensuring motorists only pay the advertised price on parking signs.
The reform follows recent government action against two-tiered beach parking schemes in Northern suburbs, which force renters to pay for permits while homeowners park for free, resulting in Mosman‘s mayor criticising the NSW government for cost-shifting to local councils.
