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Louise is an SEO Writer for Spacer Technology, creating content for the Parkhound, WhereiPark, Spacer.com.au, and Spacer.com brands. Based in the Philippines, she transitioned from her government office job to copywriting in 2012 and has stayed in content production since.
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Australia Day in the capital cities is one of the liveliest times of the year, as different cultures are honoured through various featuring activities, such as parades, concerts, fireworks, and more. But, with the influx of visitors, finding parking can become a stressful task. If you’re planning to attend an Australia Day event in capital cities, here’s how you can easily secure convenient parking and enjoy the celebrations without the hassle.
Parking for Australia Day events in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane can be tough. Roads are closed for parades, fireworks, and events, increasing the competition for limited parking spaces. This surge in demand, in turn, makes parking rates soar for the scarce parking supply. If you’re one of the unfortunate souls who failed to secure a parking spot early, chances are you’ll either be waiting a long time to find a spot or you’ll pay a premium price even for distant space.
This is why it’s essential to plan ahead if you’re attending any of the Australia Day 2025 events in major cities or even the local neighbourhood festivals.
Decide Which Event(s) to Participate In and Plan Your Route
Check out what events are available in your area and determine which activities interest you the most. From your shortlisted events, select the ones you will most likely go to and do quick research on road closures, rerouting, and transportation and parking options. Doing this will help you determine the most convenient areas to secure a parking spot.
Take Note of Dedicated Event Parking Areas
Big events like Australia Day 2025 are organised well in advance, and you’re sure to deal with road closures with big events that draw a huge crowd. Check out the official event websites and social media accounts for announcements on dedicated parking areas for attendees and which roads will be closed off to vehicles to accommodate Australia Day activities.
Arrive at the Australia Day Event Site Ahead of Time
Arrive early before the crowds gather to avoid the chaos. For this, you may either arrive early in the day or after people leave the more crowded events.
Use Public Transport or Rideshare to the Venue
If parking near the event is impossible, park your car farther away then use public transport or rideshare to the venue. Some cities offer convenient shuttle services to the venue and back to convenient pick-up and drop-off points. Likewise, shuttle and rideshare drivers are usually more aware of the changes in traffic flow and road closures during big events, so you can avoid the after-event traffic.
Avoid the combined stress of traffic congestion and on-the-spot parking search by booking your parking spot in advance. Platforms like Parkhound allows you to book a parking space in advance in your preferred area so that all you need to think about is how to make the most of your participation.
Below is a list of the official Capital City Australia Day events If you’re looking to participate in a different state from home or a tourist who simply wants to experience Australia Day 2025.
Canberra
Come to Canberra’s Regatta Point for the much-anticipated FLIGHT: Drone SkyShow + Night markets from 24 to 26 January. The Drone shows will be performed at Commonwealth Hub at 9PM and at Regatta Point at 10PM, while the night markets will be open from 5PM to 10:15 PM.
On Australia Day, the Annual Citizenship & Flag Raising Ceremony will be held from 8:45 to 10:30 AM at Lake Burley Griffin, followed by a free public BBQ at Commonwealth Park from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM.
Sydney
Sydney’s Australia Day Events begin at dawn with a solemn reflection at the overseas passenger terminal of Circular Quay from 5:20 AM. Then Head on over to participate in the WugulOra Ceremony at Walumil Lawns Barangaroo Reserve from 7:30 to 8:30 AM.
And whatever you’ve got listed in your itinerary, consider ending your day watching live musical performances at the Sydney Opera House Forecourt from 7:30 to 10:30 PM.
Darwin
Darwin kicks off with the Oz Run at the Darwin Convention Centre car park from 6:30 AM, but registration is required to participate for the run. However, the post-run celebrations are open to those who didn’t register – just head on over to the Darwin Waterfront Lawns after the run.
The “Festival of Us” will be held at the Territory Netball Stadium in Marrara from 11 AM to 8 PM for Aussies bringing kids and those who prefer watching and participating in multicultural performances.
Brisbane
Brisbane invites everyone to join the Great Australian Bites at South Bank Parklands from 2 PM to 7:30 PM, for an afternoon of food, fun, and entertainment.
Adelaide
Adelaide will begin Australia Day by paying respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Join everyone at Mourning in the Morning, which will be held at Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama from 7:30 to 8:45 AM.
Then stay at Elder Park and join a variety of free activities, including live musical performances. The Aus Lights on the River 2025 program is held from 5 to 11 PM and will conclude with a dazzling fireworks display.
Melbourne
Melbourne invites everyone to enjoy the food vendors and community BBQs, as well as the diverse entertainment prepared for the January Open Day at Government House Victoria from 10:30 AM.
Perth
Perth’s Australia Day celebration will begin at 7:45 AM with a traditional smoking ceremony and BBQ breakfast at Victoria Gardens in East Perth. Aussies and tourists may then enjoy the prepared entertainment and attractions, including carnival rides, while the Birak Concert is held at the Supreme Court Gardens.
Perth will end the day with a colourful drone show and fireworks display.
With the right planning, finding convenient parking for Australia Day events doesn’t have to be a headache. Whether it’s pre-booking, utilising public transport, or using the latest parking apps, these tips will ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. Plan ahead, and enjoy your Australia Day celebrations to the fullest!
Louise is an SEO Writer for Spacer Technology, creating content for the Parkhound, WhereiPark, Spacer.com.au, and Spacer.com brands. Based in the Philippines, she transitioned from her government office job to copywriting in 2012 and has stayed in content production since.
Louise is an SEO Writer for Spacer Technology, creating content for the Parkhound, WhereiPark, Spacer.com.au, and Spacer.com brands. Based in the Philippines, she transitioned from her government office job to copywriting in 2012 and has stayed in content production since.
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