Shocking downside of new Australian parking systems that could affect you!
- Replies 36
As we embrace the digital age with open arms, it's no surprise that even the most mundane aspects of our daily lives, like parking our cars, are getting a tech makeover.
Across Australia, cashless parking systems are being introduced, with significant cities leading the charge in adopting these tech-forward payment methods.
But as with any technological advancement, there are pros and cons, and the cons are causing a stir among Aussie drivers.
Gone are the days of fumbling for coins or tapping your card to pay for street parking.
Instead, drivers must now use smartphone apps like PayStay in Sydney's northern suburbs and EasyPark in most areas of Perth.
While some residents praise these apps' convenience, others are far from convinced, citing concerns over cybersecurity and privacy.
The new parking systems have sparked a debate that's dividing the nation.
On the one hand, some appreciate the ease of use and that they only pay for the exact time they park.
On the other, there are voices of concern, particularly those who are wary of providing personal information to these apps, which require details such as name, address, and phone number.
Cybersecurity expert Matthew Warren from RMIT has weighed in on the issue, highlighting the lack of choice for residents as a significant problem.
'It puts us, people and members of communities, at a complete disadvantage because you've got no choice but to download the app, provide your information, and just hope that there isn't a problem,' he said.
In Melbourne, where similar systems have been introduced, Warren noted that many problems and issues have arisen, especially for those who need a mobile phone when parking.
Trust in the provider becomes a central concern, as Warren emphasised the importance of councils considering cybersecurity when selecting providers rather than just opting for the cheapest option.
In December, EasyPark, a Dutch company, experienced a data breach that affected European customers.
Despite extensive backlash from residents who've labelled the new systems a 'total nightmare,'
‘I think what councils are concerned about is generating revenue, and if this is a way for them to optimise their revenue generation, that's what they're focused on,’ Warren said.
‘If anything, I think they would opt more and more into these systems because, again, they're transferring it to a third party, so it's reducing their cost.’
‘They're then generating higher income streams, and they can police it as well by fining people if they have done the wrong thing.’
In other news, ticketless parking fines in NSW increased by 49 per cent during the 2023-24 financial year.
Drivers and NSW Minister for Finance Courtney Houssos have urged the abolition of the ticketless parking system, advocating for councils to implement on-the-spot notifications. You can read more about it here.
Have you had an experience with these new parking apps? Do you feel they're a step forward or a step back? Share your thoughts and stories with us in the comments below.
Across Australia, cashless parking systems are being introduced, with significant cities leading the charge in adopting these tech-forward payment methods.
But as with any technological advancement, there are pros and cons, and the cons are causing a stir among Aussie drivers.
Gone are the days of fumbling for coins or tapping your card to pay for street parking.
Instead, drivers must now use smartphone apps like PayStay in Sydney's northern suburbs and EasyPark in most areas of Perth.
Cashless parking systems using phone apps are being introduced in major Australian cities, raising concerns among residents. Credit: Reddit
While some residents praise these apps' convenience, others are far from convinced, citing concerns over cybersecurity and privacy.
The new parking systems have sparked a debate that's dividing the nation.
On the one hand, some appreciate the ease of use and that they only pay for the exact time they park.
On the other, there are voices of concern, particularly those who are wary of providing personal information to these apps, which require details such as name, address, and phone number.
Cybersecurity expert Matthew Warren from RMIT has weighed in on the issue, highlighting the lack of choice for residents as a significant problem.
'It puts us, people and members of communities, at a complete disadvantage because you've got no choice but to download the app, provide your information, and just hope that there isn't a problem,' he said.
In Melbourne, where similar systems have been introduced, Warren noted that many problems and issues have arisen, especially for those who need a mobile phone when parking.
Trust in the provider becomes a central concern, as Warren emphasised the importance of councils considering cybersecurity when selecting providers rather than just opting for the cheapest option.
In December, EasyPark, a Dutch company, experienced a data breach that affected European customers.
Despite extensive backlash from residents who've labelled the new systems a 'total nightmare,'
‘I think what councils are concerned about is generating revenue, and if this is a way for them to optimise their revenue generation, that's what they're focused on,’ Warren said.
‘If anything, I think they would opt more and more into these systems because, again, they're transferring it to a third party, so it's reducing their cost.’
‘They're then generating higher income streams, and they can police it as well by fining people if they have done the wrong thing.’
In other news, ticketless parking fines in NSW increased by 49 per cent during the 2023-24 financial year.
Drivers and NSW Minister for Finance Courtney Houssos have urged the abolition of the ticketless parking system, advocating for councils to implement on-the-spot notifications. You can read more about it here.
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