Ways to Avoid Parking Fines 101 (especially in 2024)

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September 08, 2024 | By Ignatia Belle


We all know 2024’s not been easy. Between the soaring cost of living, skyrocketing rent, and groceries feeling like they’re priced in gold, who has money left for parking tickets? Heck, we can barely afford a car, let alone the privilege of a parking fine! But don’t worry – I’ve got your back with these cheeky and practical class to avoid parking fines 101. So let’s dig in and learn how to dodge the ticket and keep your bank account a little fuller.


1. Use Share with Oscar


This one’s a no-brainer. Let’s be real, navigating council parking is like playing Russian roulette – you never know when you’ll get caught. That’s why booking a spot with Share with Oscar is your best bet. Why risk it? Our app is designed to help you avoid parking fines by finding legal, easy-to-book spaces around town. Simply reserve a spot, park with peace of mind, and you can say goodbye to that dreaded slip of paper under your windshield wiper.

It’s also a win-win. You avoid fines, and you’re helping locals earn on the side. Supporting people while keeping your money out of the council’s pockets? Yes, please!


2. Double Check Those Signs (And Triple Check, Just to Be Safe)


Ever squinted at a parking sign like it’s a cryptic crossword puzzle? Yeah, me too. Melbourne and Sydney are notorious for posting signs that feel like they need a PhD to understand. Is it a loading zone? A 30-minute spot? Is it Tuesday, or the third Wednesday of the month during school holidays? Who knows?!

The trick to avoid parking fines is simple: slow down and really read the sign. Double-check it. Look again. If you’re even slightly unsure, walk away. It’s not worth the gamble. You don’t want to be stuck with a fine because you missed that tiny bit about “clearway from 4-7pm.” In 2024, every dollar counts!


3. Carry Spare Change (And A Credit Card)


With inflation eating up our wallets faster than you can say “parking inspector,” having a backup plan is essential. Picture this: you finally find that perfect spot, but you’ve got no coins, and there’s no card payment option. You’re stuck. Do you leave, or do you wing it?

Here’s the hack: stash some coins in your car for emergencies. And always have a backup plan for when you’re caught in one of those rare, cash-only parking spots. Better to be over-prepared than overcharged!


4. Don’t Tempt Fate with Expired Tickets or Metres


Ah, the thrill of finding a broken metre. It’s like winning a mini lottery – free parking! But here’s the thing: as tempting as it is to leave your car in that out-of-order space, you’re taking a risk. Metres have sneaky ways of catching you off guard, even when they appear busted.

A better plan? Stick with legal parking or use Share with Oscar. Sure, that broken metre is thrilling, but it’s not worth the gamble when one ticket could set you back $100 or more. In 2024, we need every dollar, and parking fines are the last thing we can afford!


5. Set Parking Alarms – Because Time Flies


We’ve all done it. Parked in a one-hour zone, gotten caught up in errands or that ‘quick’ coffee, and then… bam! Two hours have passed, and so has the parking inspector. One small oversight, one big fine.

The solution? Set an alarm on your phone the moment you park. Give yourself a five-minute warning before your time’s up, so you’re never scrambling. Sure, you may feel like a kid being called home for curfew, but it’s worth it to avoid parking fines. Plus, it’s one less expense you have to worry about when the cost of living is already through the roof.


What Should You Do If You Get a Fine?


So, you’ve been caught! Don’t panic – it happens to the best of us. Now, what’s next? If you’ve received a parking fine (or one of its dreaded cousins – a fine reminder or overdue fine), you’ve got a few options:



– Pay it outright (if you’re feeling brave).


Apply for a payment plan if the wallet’s a little light (hello, 2024).


Request a review – maybe you’ve got a solid excuse?


Nominate the responsible person if it wasn’t you driving!


View images of the offence to check out the evidence.


Take it to court if you’re feeling bold.


The ball’s in your court! Choose wisely.


Need a Payment Plan? Yes, you can do that!


It’s 2024, and we’re all feeling the squeeze. Can’t cough up the full amount for your fine by the due date? No worries! Spreading out the payments can take the sting out of it. Here’s how to set up a payment plan:



1. Call 1300 138 118 – a friendly voice awaits (hopefully).


2. Fill out the application form (paperwork is never fun but necessary).


3. Mail it off to the address on the form. Then, relax and breathe – you’ve bought yourself some time.


See? Dealing with a fine doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom!


Bonus Tip: Don’t Let Parking Inspections Ruin Your Day


Okay, so you got caught. It happens. But before you rage at the universe (and that smug parking inspector), take a deep breath. In some cases, you can appeal the fine, especially if the signage wasn’t clear or if you’ve got a reasonable excuse.

And if all else fails, try using the dreaded ticket as a learning moment. Maybe next time, you’ll stick with Share with Oscar and avoid parking fines altogether!


Avoiding parking fines might seem like a challenge, but with these tips, you’ll be one step ahead of the inspectors. In 2024, every little bit helps, so don’t throw away your hard-earned money on avoidable parking fines. From using Share with Oscar to reading signs carefully, these tips can save you time, money, and stress. Always plan ahead, stay alert, and be mindful of where you park. With these strategies, you’ll never have to worry about those dreaded parking fines again!

Happy parking!

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