Are parking fees for large cars about to skyrocket? You won't believe the reason why
- Replies 34
A controversial proposal is sparking heated debate over parking fees for large cars and SUVs.
While some see it as a necessary step for the environment and public safety, others are calling it an unfair money grab.
The discussion is about to heat up—here’s what you need to know.
A new proposal to hike parking fees for large cars and SUVs in Sydney’s CBD has stirred up significant controversy.
The plan, which would see the current $8.20 per hour rate for parking jump to $24.60 for owners of SUVs and oversized vehicles like the RAM, has left drivers fuming.
Greens Councillor Michael Thompson, the brain behind the push, believes the changes would reduce carbon emissions and improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians.
Thompson pointed out that ‘SUVs and luxury trucks are eight times more likely to kill a child in a collision’.
However, the proposal has not been well received by all.
One Sydney driver asked: ‘Why? Parking is parking,’ expressing confusion over the rationale behind the plan.
Another criticised the proposal as ‘a rort’ and ‘a bit of a money grab’.
Despite the backlash, Thompson remained firm, stating: ‘We want these dangerous giant cars off our city streets’.
Sales data revealed that 60 per cent of new cars purchased in Australia are now SUVs, with models like the Toyota RAV4, Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, Prado, and Mitsubishi Outlander leading the pack.
There would be exemptions for certain vehicles under the proposal, including those used for work or those with wheelchair access.
The same measure was introduced in Paris last year, resulting in the freeing up of 10,000 parking spots in the French capital.
While Paris embraced the change, many Australians, including some Sydneysiders, disagreed with the idea.
One woman said she could ‘see their point’ but added, ‘it should be the same for everyone’.
Others, like one man, suggested that a ‘maybe some other strategy to apply-maybe some other fuel tax, I don’t know, but I know that’s not the right thing’.
Transport Minister John Graham weighed in, urging the City of Sydney council to consider the financial pressure on residents before approving the increase.
The proposal was set to be discussed at a council meeting on 7 April.
The issue has raised important questions about the balance between environmental policy and the financial impact on drivers.
In a previous story, we discussed the financial pitfalls of parking in the city.
If you're worried about hidden charges and costly mistakes, it’s worth checking out the full details.
Don’t miss out—read on to avoid a $362 nightmare.
With so many opinions on the proposed parking fee hike, do you think it’s a step in the right direction for Sydney? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
While some see it as a necessary step for the environment and public safety, others are calling it an unfair money grab.
The discussion is about to heat up—here’s what you need to know.
A new proposal to hike parking fees for large cars and SUVs in Sydney’s CBD has stirred up significant controversy.
The plan, which would see the current $8.20 per hour rate for parking jump to $24.60 for owners of SUVs and oversized vehicles like the RAM, has left drivers fuming.
Greens Councillor Michael Thompson, the brain behind the push, believes the changes would reduce carbon emissions and improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians.
Sydney's proposed parking fee hike sparks heated debate. Image source: Pexels/Kelly
Thompson pointed out that ‘SUVs and luxury trucks are eight times more likely to kill a child in a collision’.
However, the proposal has not been well received by all.
One Sydney driver asked: ‘Why? Parking is parking,’ expressing confusion over the rationale behind the plan.
Another criticised the proposal as ‘a rort’ and ‘a bit of a money grab’.
Despite the backlash, Thompson remained firm, stating: ‘We want these dangerous giant cars off our city streets’.
Sales data revealed that 60 per cent of new cars purchased in Australia are now SUVs, with models like the Toyota RAV4, Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, Prado, and Mitsubishi Outlander leading the pack.
There would be exemptions for certain vehicles under the proposal, including those used for work or those with wheelchair access.
The same measure was introduced in Paris last year, resulting in the freeing up of 10,000 parking spots in the French capital.
While Paris embraced the change, many Australians, including some Sydneysiders, disagreed with the idea.
One woman said she could ‘see their point’ but added, ‘it should be the same for everyone’.
Others, like one man, suggested that a ‘maybe some other strategy to apply-maybe some other fuel tax, I don’t know, but I know that’s not the right thing’.
Transport Minister John Graham weighed in, urging the City of Sydney council to consider the financial pressure on residents before approving the increase.
The proposal was set to be discussed at a council meeting on 7 April.
The issue has raised important questions about the balance between environmental policy and the financial impact on drivers.
In a previous story, we discussed the financial pitfalls of parking in the city.
If you're worried about hidden charges and costly mistakes, it’s worth checking out the full details.
Don’t miss out—read on to avoid a $362 nightmare.
With so many opinions on the proposed parking fee hike, do you think it’s a step in the right direction for Sydney? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
.png){kind=icon}
