Menu
Written by:
The Spacer Technologies content team is a dedicated group of writers and experts with a deep-rooted passion for the sharing economy. Our team is committed to creating informative, engaging, and valuable content across our various platforms. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for simplifying complex topics, we strive to empower our audience with knowledge and insights about the benefits of shared spaces.
Edited by:
The Spacer Technologies content team is a dedicated group of writers and experts with a deep-rooted passion for the sharing economy. Our team is committed to creating informative, engaging, and valuable content across our various platforms. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for simplifying complex topics, we strive to empower our audience with knowledge and insights about the benefits of shared spaces.
Reviewed by:
The Spacer Technologies content team is a dedicated group of writers and experts with a deep-rooted passion for the sharing economy. Our team is committed to creating informative, engaging, and valuable content across our various platforms. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for simplifying complex topics, we strive to empower our audience with knowledge and insights about the benefits of shared spaces.
Reading time : 13 mins
Are you among the one million people who drive to get around Melbourne? Here are our top tips to help you save time and money on parking in the city.
Apart from being viewed as one of the most liveable cities in the world, Melbourne is a melting pot of culture, cuisine, and vibrant city life.
And as the city grows, so does the number of cars on Melbourne roads. Since 2021, the number of registered vehicles in Victoria has been growing even faster than the population.
According to ABC’s analysis of data from the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics, there were 810 vehicles for every 1,000 people in 2023.
This marks the biggest increase in the country at 4.1 percent, adding about 209,000 more vehicles, with roughly half of those being standard cars.
But ask any Melburnians, and they’ll tell you finding a convenient and cheap parking space in the city can often feel like a game of hide and seek.
With over one million drivers hitting Melbourne streets daily, it’s no surprise that finding a parking space that fits their needs can be a challenge.
To make your life easier, we’ve compiled helpful parking tips to help you save time and money.
“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” And that saying applies to finding a parking space in busy cities like Melbourne.
So before you hit the road, plan and book parking online. Take advantage of technology by using parking apps like Parkhound and Spacer to make sure you have a parking space waiting for you near your destination.
These platforms often offer discounted prices compared to drive-up rates. Additionally, opting for monthly parking passes or searching for hidden gem parking spaces in less busy streets can further reduce your parking costs.
Booking through platforms like Parkhound saves you from the daily hassle of hunting for a parking space. Whether you need short-term parking near the MCG for a big game or long-term airport parking near Melbourne Airport, you can find cheap and convenient options.
Platforms like Parkhound also let you reserve a space in advance, so you won’t have to circle the car park several times looking for the perfect spot in a prime location.
On public holidays, some parking signs don’t apply, allowing you to park for free and as long as you like.
So, which signs are affected? Any parking signs that specify a day of the week, such as ‘Mon–Fri,’ ‘Sat,’ or ‘Sun,’ don’t apply on public holidays. Essentially, these signs are treated as ‘blank’ on public holidays.
But remember that parking restrictions still apply if a parking sign does not show a day of the week.
For example, if a parking sign only shows 2 hours parking from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm, then this will apply every day of the year, including public holidays.
Parking can be challenging in busy locations during the hustle and bustle of peak hours. Finding a parking space in high-traffic areas likeRichmond, Fitzroy, Carlton, Abbotsford, and Melbourne CBD during peak times can be particularly difficult during peak hours and the after-work rush.
If you have the flexibility in your schedule, try to park during off-peak hours. With that said, you also have to note Melbourne’s busiest times.
Generally, peak travel times in Melbourne occur during the morning and afternoon rush periods The morning rush starts around 6:30 am and continues until 9:30 am, while the afternoon peak extends from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm.
By choosing to park early in the morning, late in the evening, or on weekends, you’re more likely to find available spaces and potentially pay lower parking rates.
Off-peak parking can also mean less traffic, making your overall driving experience more pleasant.
To avoid any surprises and save money by avoiding parking tickets, familiarise yourself with the local parking rules, and always double-check the signage before leaving your car.
Parking rules and regulations across Melbourne can vary based on the area and type of parking zone. Here are some common rules to be aware of:
Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided is accurate at the time of writing, but be sure to check with local councils or relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information on parking regulations.
Time Limits
Many parking bays in Melbourne have time restrictions, such as 1-hour or 2-hour parking. These limits are strictly enforced, so make sure to check the signs and set a reminder to move your car before the time expires.
These areas will display the time limits, such as “1P” or “2P,” indicating the number of hours you are allowed to park. They often include specific hours during which the time limit applies. Exceeding the time limit can result in a fine.
Permit Zones
Some areas require a residential or business permit or “rego” to park. These zones are usually marked with signs indicating that a permit is necessary. If you park in these areas without a permit, you risk receiving a parking ticket.
Take note these areas will typically have a “Permit Zone” or “Permit Holders Excepted” and may specify the types of permits required. They often include the applicable times and permit zone numbers.
Clearways
Clearways are areas where parking is prohibited during certain times, typically during peak traffic hours. These zones are designated to keep traffic flowing smoothly. Parking in a clearway during restricted times can result in your car being towed or paying a hefty fine.
Clearway signs feature a “C” inside a red circle with a diagonal line through it and state the times when parking is prohibited.
Loading Zones
Loading zones are designated areas for commercial vehicles to load and unload goods. These zones have specific time restrictions and are usually off-limits for regular parking.
To make sure you don’t accidentally park in loading zones, look out for a sign panel indicating it’s a “Loading Zone”. It may include additional details such as the allowed times and the maximum duration for loading or unloading.
Tow-away Zones
A tow-away zone is a section of road where parking is not allowed at certain times shown on the sign, from which motor vehicles will be towed away.
These areas will have clear signages indicating “Tow Away Zone” and include the times during which vehicles will be towed if parked. They often accompany clearway or no-stopping signs.
Metered Parking
In many parts of Melbourne, you will find metered parking bays where you need to pay for the time you park. The rates can vary depending on the location and time of day.
Remember adding more money to extend your parking time (“feeding the meter”) is not allowed and can result in a fine.
Metered parking signs will indicate the hours during which payment is required and the rates. They are often accompanied by parking meters or pay-and-display machines.
Disabled Parking
Designated disabled parking spaces are available for vehicles displaying a valid disabled parking permit. Parking in these parking bays without the appropriate permit can result in a hefty fine.
These areas feature the international symbol for accessibility (a white wheelchair symbol on a blue background) and may include text specifying that the space is reserved for vehicles with disabled access.
No-Stopping Area
These areas prohibit stopping a vehicle for any reason, even momentarily.
Stopping in a no stopping area is an offense, regardless of whether the engine is running, people are in the vehicle, or hazard lights are on.
No stopping signs display the letter “S” with a line through it.
To avoid any surprises and save money by avoiding parking tickets, familiarise yourself with the local parking rules, and always double-check the signage before leaving your car.
Note: Please note that the information provided here is for general guidance only. Always check local signage and regulations. We are not responsible for any fines or penalties incurred.
Do you prefer indoor parking or outdoor parking? Or is proximity to your destination a big deciding factor? Maybe your main goal is finding the cheapest parking rates in Melbourne.
As we’ve mentioned, planning makes a world of difference in improving your parking experience. This way, you can secure a space that best meets your needs, whether it’s convenience, cost, or location.
Some areas, particularly popular destinations, may have limited parking spaces or only have premium parking, so it’s best to be prepared.
Check online for official websites, apps, and comparison sites that provide information on parking garages, lots, and street parking availability.
For instance, if you need to attend a major event at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), you can find parking options online for event parking. Doing this can help you save time and reduce stress when finding a good parking space in Melbourne.
Watching a big game or attending a special event? You can also check out our article on The 6 Best Kept Secrets to Finding Big Event Parking.
Melbourne is full of hidden gem parking spots that aren’t widely known. These can be found in less busy streets, residential areas, or smaller car parks.
Additionally, there are many off-site parking options, which might be a bit further from your destination but offer more availability and lower costs.
One way to find these parking spaces is to get insider tips from locals, who know the area’s best parking secrets. Chatting with people in community groups, forums, or on social media can give you great tips about these hidden gems.
Apps like Parkhound are also great for discovering these hidden gems, as they often feature listings from locals renting out their unused parking spaces. These parking spaces are typically more affordable and closer to your destination, saving you both time and money.
Many commercial car parks and parking operators in Melbourne offer early bird specials. These provide discounted rates if you park before a certain arrival time in the morning, typically around 8 or 9 AM, and stay for a minimum number of hours.
This is a great hack for commuters or anyone planning to spend the entire day in the city but wanting to save money on parking. It also saves you from the heavier cost of paying the hourly rate.
Check online or at the entrance of car parks for details on these specials, as they can significantly reduce your parking costs.
You’ve done your homework and determined that traditional street parking is not for you, and commercial parking providers aren’t meeting your needs.
In this case, you may want to consider exploring alternative parking options such as parking at nearby hotels, private garages, or even renting spaces (e.g. driveways) in residential areas.
These alternatives can sometimes offer more convenient and secure parking options, especially during busy times.
Platforms like Parkhound connect drivers looking for car parking with Hosts that have spare parking spaces in convenient locations across Australia.
Whether you’re looking for a car parking space in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane<.a>, Canberra, Adelaide, Perth or searching for ‘parking near me’, Parkhound can help you find the perfect spot that’s convenient for you.
Save money and avoid parking hassles by using public transportation for your last mile.
Park your car at a more affordable, well-connected location further from the city centre, and use Melbourne’s efficient public transport system, like trams or buses, to reach your final destination.
It reduces the hassle of finding parking in busy areas and helps you avoid higher parking fees, making your commute more cost-effective and less stressful.
This option is great if you don’t mind spending a bit of extra time on public transport. It’s also better for the environment, so why not consider it?
If you commute daily or you have certain days you have to be in the office every week, consider joining a carpool or using rideshare apps like Uber, Didi or Ola.
Sharing rides with colleagues or friends can split the cost of parking, cut down on traffic, and help the environment.
Some workplaces even offer designated carpool parking spaces that are more convenient and affordable. Plus, carpooling during business hours can save you time and stress by using carpool lanes. It’s a great way to save money and make your commute more enjoyable!
For more tips on how to make your daily trip to the office more bearable, check out our article on 10 Ways to Make Your Driving Commute Better.
Whether you need long-term parking for a lengthy trip or short-term parking for a quick pick-up/drop-off, parking in Melbourne doesn’t have to be a stressful experience.
By planning before leaving for your destination, understanding the local regulations, and taking advantage of hidden gems and special deals, you can find convenient and affordable parking without the hassle.
Remember to also use parking apps like Parkhound to make your next drive in Melbourne smooth and enjoyable.
The Spacer Technologies content team is a dedicated group of writers and experts with a deep-rooted passion for the sharing economy.
Our team is committed to creating informative, engaging, and valuable content across our various platforms.
With a keen eye for detail and a talent for simplifying complex topics, we strive to empower our audience with knowledge and insights about the benefits of shared spaces.
The Spacer Technologies content team is a dedicated group of writers and experts with a deep-rooted passion for the sharing economy.
Our team is committed to creating informative, engaging, and valuable content across our various platforms.
With a keen eye for detail and a talent for simplifying complex topics, we strive to empower our audience with knowledge and insights about the benefits of shared spaces.
This will close in 0 seconds
This will close in 0 seconds