Visitor Paid Parking
A decision on the future of permanent Visitor Paid Parking has been deferred.
The incoming Council will revisit the future of Visitor Paid Parking in the New Year, with careful consideration of all perspectives.
A comprehensive policy and framework to guide foreshore parking management will be developed, supported by community engagement to ensure a balanced approach.
The current Pilot will end at 8 PM on Saturday, 14 September 2024.
After this date, parking at Schnapper Point (Mornington), Sunnyside Beach (Mt Eliza) and Flinders Pier will be free, and ePermits will not be required. All car park users must adhere to time restrictions.
Find answers to all your questions by exploring our comprehensive list of FAQs.
What's happening with the Pilot?
The Pilot at the three sites will conclude at 8 PM on 14 September 2024.
What does this mean for the Pilot sites and car park users after 14 September?
After this date, parking at these locations will be free, and ePermits will not be required.
All car park users must adhere to the signed time restrictions (e.g. 2P, 4P).
What happens to the equipment used in the Pilot?
Where possible the associated Pilot infrastructure and signage will be repurposed. The equipment including cameras, poles, signs, and the tap ‘n’ pay station at Schnapper Point, will be removed.
What will happen to my personal details collected for the PayStay App and ePermits?
Any personal details collected as part of the Pilot will remain securely stored. Your details will not be shared without your consent and will be managed in accordance with privacy regulations. You can continue to use your PayStay account for parking in other locations where PayStay is in place.
What insights did you gain from the Pilot?
We have gained valuable insights from the recent Pilot and are dedicated to addressing key areas for improvement. These include:
- Enhancing the ePermit user experience to make it simpler and more accessible for our residents.
- Expanding payment options to better support visitors who may not have access to smart technology.
- Improving communications and providing clear information to better support both local businesses and international visitors.
What were the biggest issues revealed through the Pilot, and what was learned?
The Pilot revealed several key concerns, these included:
- Frustration with the ePermit application process, level of documentation required and issues with the system.
- Challenges with payment technology and lack of alternative payment options such as pay stations.
- Concerns from accessible parking permit holders and carers.
- Objections to fees and infringements.
- Concerns about potential security/data breaches from the supply of personal information, credit card details etc.
- Disruption to businesses operating within the Pilot sites.
- Difficulties faced by international guests attempting to access payment options.
There were lessons learned which we are committed to addressing, including:
- A critical need to improve the ePermit user experience and simplify this process for our residents.
- Enhance payment options to support visitors without access to smart technology.
- Minimise security concerns with parking service provider.
- Better support both local businesses and international visitors with improved communications and clear information.
How do you know the Pilot was successful?
The evaluation confirms that with some necessary enhancements, the Pilot achieved its primary objectives.
- It demonstrated its capability to generate revenue, covering operational costs and enabling reinvestment into maintaining foreshore infrastructure creating a more equitable cost-sharing system between residents and visitors.
- It proved effective in driving vehicle turnover, which ensures fairer access for everyone. The average duration of stay during peak periods decreased from 2.20 hours to an average of around 1.5 hours.
How are the profits from the Pilot being used?
Any profits generated from the Pilot, after covering expenses, will be used to help maintain foreshore infrastructure.
How much revenue did the Pilot generate?
Over a seven-month period, the Pilot generated $1.38 million in revenue from visitor parking fees and infringements.
What was the average monthly revenue?
During the peak months (December to March), the average monthly revenue was $105,889. In the off-peak months (April to June), this average dropped to $50,796 due to seasonal trends.
What were the costs associated with the Pilot?
The total cost of running the Pilot was $1.22 million. This covered expenses related to resources, technology, and infrastructure.
What is the estimated profit if the Pilot continued for a full year?
If the Pilot had continued for a full year, it is estimated to have generated $2 million in revenue. After covering all associated costs, the forecast net profit would be $610,000, demonstrating its potential for long-term financial success.
How many visitors paid to park at the Pilot sites?
Over 58,000 payment transactions were made across all three sites during the Pilot. Schnapper Point received the most paid visitors 42,805, with Flinders at 10,836 and Sunnyside 5,171.
How much revenue was generated from infringements during the pilot program, and what was the breakdown between residents and visitors?
During the Pilot, revenue from infringements totaled $806,438. The breakdown between residents and visitors is as follows:
- Visitors: Infringements issued to visitors accounted for approximately 70% - 80% of the total revenue.
- Residents: At the peak of the program, infringements issued to residents represented around 30%. This reduced to approximately 20% with increased messaging and communications regarding the requirement for an ePermit.
What changes were made to help reduce infringements due to non-compliance?
A conservative approach was taken regarding infringements and fair consideration provided to appeals. This included:
- Improved Communication: We enhanced communication by installing large variable message signs at car park entrances to better inform people about parking rules.
- Clarity on Regulations: We made parking regulations clearer, which contributed to a reduction in infringement numbers.
These measures aimed to address confusion and improve compliance, leading to fewer infringements over time.
How many feedback responses did you receive?
Over 750 pieces of feedback were received in relation to the Pilot and 1300 emails seeking assistance with the ePermit process. Requests for support from visitors attempting to pay were handled by the parking service provider.
How many ePermits were issued?
Over 22,000 ePermits were issued. These included:
- 20,489 Residents ePermits
- 523 businesses, volunteers, and club members ePermits
- 540 vehicles added to a permit whitelist (e.g. delivery vans, maintenance, support services, emergency vehicles.
- 982 accessible ePermits.
Is my ePermit still valid?
Yes, your ePermit will remain valid until 8 PM on 14 September 2024.
What happens to the ePermits after the Pilot concludes?
After the Pilot concludes, there will be no requirement for visitors to pay at the Pilot sites, and residents will not need to maintain their ePermits. You don’t need to take any action; your ePermit details will remain confidential.
What do I need to do now?
- Until 14 September: Continue to comply with the paid parking rules and timing at each site as a visitor or resident. Parking enforcement will still be in effect.
- After 14 September: No further action is required from visitors or residents. Payments and ePermits will no longer be required at the three pilot sites. Information on any future changes related to Visitor Paid Parking will be communicated when confirmed.
What will happen to the fines already issued?
As with all infringements, Residents and Visitors may appeal their fine by following the appeals process.
Questions?
Question not answered? Please submit you feedback or questions on Visitor Paid Parking via this Online Request Form:
Create Customer Request (mornpen.vic.gov.au)