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August 20, 2024 | By Ignatia Belle
Are you one of the million people driving around Melbourne? Finding parking in Melbourne can feel like a never-ending challenge, but we’ve got you covered! We’ve compiled our top 15 tips to help you save time and money while navigating the city’s bustling streets.
Melbourne isn’t just one of the most liveable cities in the world; it’s a buzzing hub of culture, mouth-watering food, and endless things to see and do. But with all this growth comes more cars—lots of them! Since 2021, car registrations have surged faster than Melbourne’s booming population. By 2023, there were 810 cars for every 1,000 people. Yep, that’s a 4.1% jump. And if you’ve ever driven around Melbourne, you’ll know that finding a parking spot often feels like finding a needle in a haystack!
Melbourne is famous for its vibrant culture, artsy lanes, and trendy cafes. However, with its growth comes the ever-increasing number of cars on the road. Since 2021, registered vehicles in Victoria have outpaced population growth, adding nearly 209,000 cars. That means parking in Melbourne can feel like playing hide and seek, especially in busy areas.
But don’t worry! With these handy tips, you’ll be parking in Melbourne like a pro, without breaking the bank. Let’s dive into our top tips to make parking easier, cheaper, and more sustainable.
Before you even hit the road, plan where you’ll park. Use parking apps like Share with Oscar. These platforms allow you to reserve a spot before you arrive, so you won’t waste time circling the block. Besides, online bookings often come with discounts! It’s a no-brainer when parking in Melbourne.
On public holidays, many parking restrictions are lifted. For example, if the sign says “Mon–Fri,” then on a public holiday, you might not need to pay. If any day of the week is stated on the parking sign, that sign doesn’t apply on a public holiday.For example, ‘2P Meter, Mon-Fri, 7am-10pm’ would not apply on a public holiday. Be sure to double-check the signs, though—if no days are mentioned, the restrictions still apply.
Early bird parking deals are a lifesaver. Arrive before peak times—usually around 8 AM—and you’ll save heaps. Perfect for commuters or anyone spending the day in Melbourne’s CBD. Plus, it’s way cheaper than paying hourly rates.
Parking in Melbourne is a challenge during rush hours, so avoid them when possible. If you can, plan your trips during quieter hours to snag a spot without the hassle.
Melbourne’s peak traffic times can turn parking into a battle. Morning rush hour typically runs from 6:30 to 9:30 am, while the afternoon rush picks up between 3:30 and 6:30 pm. If you’re braving the city streets during these hours, finding a parking spot can be a real test of patience. In peak areas like Richmond, Carlton, and the CBD, it’s a scramble, with cars weaving in and out, and frustration levels rising. Parking during these times? Let’s just say it’s an adventure!
Clearway zones keep Melbourne’s traffic flowing, so parking there at restricted times can result in a big fine or worse—your car getting towed. Avoid the stress by steering clear of these areas. Look for the red circle with a line through it on signs to know when you can’t park.
2P or not 2P? If you’re parking in a metered zone, be smart about it. Check the rates and time limits carefully. Often, metered parking gets cheaper after peak hours, so plan your parking based on time of day. And remember, “feeding the meter” (adding more money after the time expires) is a no-no!
In quieter suburbs, you’ll find residential streets with ample parking. Be mindful of permit zones, though. If you don’t have the right permit, parking in these areas could lead to a fine. But, many streets near the city allow free parking after certain hours. Look for signs that show the time restrictions.
South Melbourne, Carlton, and North Melbourne are popular choices for those looking to park near the CBD but with more space and less chaos. These neighbourhoods offer a mix of permit parking and hidden side streets with longer time limits, perfect for those seeking a balance between proximity and availability. Plus, they’re close enough to the action without dealing with the heavy crowds and costs of the inner city.
Why not save the planet while you save on parking in Melbourne? Carpooling reduces the number of cars on the road and splits the parking costs. Rideshare apps like Uber and Ola are also great for cutting parking out altogether. Many companies now offer incentives for carpooling too!
For those flexible with their schedule, parking in Melbourne during off-peak times is a win. Streets clear out, and many car parks drop their rates. Plus, less traffic means you can zip around the city without the usual stress.
Imagine cruising into the CBD at 9:00 PM—no crowds, no hassle. It’s like having Melbourne’s streets all to yourself. You even score that prime spot right outside your favourite restaurant, and hey, it feels like a VIP moment!
Parking near Melbourne’s city fringe is often much cheaper. From there, jump on a tram or train into the CBD. It’s a great way to avoid hefty fees, and Melbourne’s public transport is top-notch. Parking further out also means less congestion and a smoother drive.
Melbourne is strict on enforcing no stopping and disabled parking zones. Keep an eye out for the blue wheelchair sign or a red circle with a slash through an “S.” Parking in these areas without permission will lead to fines—and that’s the last thing you want.
“Illegally parking in a space designed for people with disabilities (or commercial vehicles) takes the space away from someone that really needs it, so just don’t do it,” Morris says.
On that note, let’s remember these parking spaces are a lifeline for those with a valid disabled permit. So let’s listen to Morris—parking there without a permit? Just don’t. You’re taking a space from someone who really needs it! Same goes for commercial vehicle spots. It’s like snagging someone else’s reserved table at a restaurant. A big no-no. So be kind, park where you’re supposed to, and keep the world spinning smoothly!
Parking garages can be more convenient and safer than street parking, especially for longer stays. Always check for early bird specials and weekend rates—these can often slash the price significantly.
If you regularly park in Melbourne, consider a monthly parking pass. These passes offer significant savings compared to daily rates and allow you to skip the stress of finding a spot every day. Look into options through parking apps and garages near your workplace or favourite regulars.
Here at Oscar monthly parking is our must have for your wallet and your sanity. No more daily parking hunts or surprise fees—just one flat rate that keeps you covered all month long. Besides the peace of mind, you’ll save heaps compared to paying daily rates. Imagine the extra cash for brunches, coffee, or even a cheeky weekend getaway! Take a look at our monthly parking options, dotted all around Melbourne, here!
Looking to go green? Many parking garages and lots offer electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. While you park, your car charges! Check out Share with Oscar for easy access to parking spots with charging options. Not only are you saving time, but you’re also helping the environment by reducing your carbon footprint.
Melbourne has many parking regulations, and it pays to know them. Always read the signs before leaving your car to avoid any tickets or tows. A few minutes of reading could save you hundreds in fines!
Australia (including Melbourne) has its share of quirky parking rules! Ever parked on the wrong side of the street? That’s a no-go in some areas, where parking against the flow of traffic can get you fined. Or how about those mysterious “permit zones” that seem to pop up out of nowhere? If you don’t have the golden ticket (aka a permit), you might find yourself in a sticky situation. And let’s not forget the “clearways” that magically turn your prime parking spot into a tow-away zone during peak hours. Keep an eye on those signs, folks!
Parking in Melbourne doesn’t have to be a headache. With a bit of planning and smart use of apps, early bird deals, and public transport, you can save both time and money while exploring this incredible city. Whether you’re visiting the CBD for work or play, or cruising around Melbourne’s trendy suburbs, you’ve got plenty of options to make parking a breeze.So next time you’re parking in Melbourne, follow these tips and park smarter—not harder!
And there you have it—parking in Melbourne doesn’t have to be a headache!
With a little planning and some insider knowledge, you’ll be cruising straight into a stress-free spot. And hey, while you’re at it, why not make life even easier with Share With Oscar? We’ve got plenty of hidden parking gems waiting for you. Whether you’re heading to a big event or just need a space for the day, park smarter, not harder.
Give Oscar a go—you’ll thank us later!
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