A new paid parking system has come under scrutiny, with the operators of a marina forced to clarify why the change has been implemented.
Residents voiced their concerns after Noosa Marina recently updated its digital parking system.
The Tewantin venue has always required visitors to provide vehicle registration details on entry to receive three hours of free parking, but the upgraded system now uses an app.
The marina has adopted EasyPark, a platform where visitors can register to park using the app or an on-site machine.
Sunshine Coast Council is currently using the same platform within the Caloundra CBD, Sunshine Coast health precinct and Birtinya parking areas.
According to on-site signage at Noosa Marina the first three hours of parking are free, with prices then ranging from $6 for four hours to $22 for six or more hours.
Residents aired their concerns via social media about being required to use an app for parking and how the time limits would be enforced.
A statement from Noosa Marina outlined why the new system was introduced.
“We know change isn’t always easy, so we wanted to explain why we’ve made this shift and how it actually benefits everyone who visits us,” the statement said.
“The state government’s Transport Minister recently changed legislation requiring us to move to this type of system.
“So, while we understand it feels sudden, this wasn’t our choice – we’re just doing our best to implement it smoothly.”
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A spokesperson for the Department of Transport and Main Roads said the changes in legislation followed a statewide pause prohibiting private car park enforcement to access vehicle registration-related personal information.
“The Queensland Government does not determine or dictate what type of paid or managed parking systems are implemented in private car parks or facilities,” the spokesperson said.
“However, the Queensland Government does play a role in the protection of personal information in relation to enforcement activities carried out by these private car park operators.
“Following complaints and concerns from the community, we undertook a detailed review of the provision of personal information for private car park enforcement.
“This review included in-depth consultation with a range of stakeholders, including car park operators and business owners.
“After considering the outcomes of the review, legislative amendments are being implemented to remove access to personal information for private car park enforcement.”
The spokesperson said land and business owners had a range of options to manage their car parks, including partnering with local governments, boom gates and other technology-enabled solutions, like EasyPark.
Noosa Marina stated EasyPark could issue tickets for unregistered vehicles as required by legislation, and that repeated non-compliance could result in towing.
In Queensland, the rules for private car parks are determined by the property owner or operator.
The rules must comply with rules like the Australian Consumer Law, which prohibits misleading conduct and unfair contract terms.
While private operators can enforce their parking conditions and may issue payment notices for breaches, they cannot issue legal fines.
