Free parking for Christmas in Melbourne CBD

From Tuesday Victorians can park in the city for free. But before you drive in, you need to follow these steps.

Free parking is available in the CBD and across the City of Melbourne council boundary. Find out how to access and follow the rules.

Another Christmas treat has dropped in Melbourne with free CBD parking on the cards to bring people back and boost the economy.

Melbourne City Council has unveiled spectacular plans for a jolly Christmas to entice visitors back to the CBD.

The month-long festivities include a Christmas-themed picnic area, decorated laneways and now free parking starting today and continuing into the new year.

Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp said the limited parking offer ensured everyone would be welcomed back to the city in a safe way.

“Forget the 12 days of Christmas, we’re offering 32 days of free parking to help you enjoy our fabulous city this holiday season,” she said.

“We’re using every transport option available to encourage workers and visitors back to the city to support local businesses.

“Some people may be hesitant using public transport in the short term and until that confidence builds we have decided to temporarily make parking free in areas with green signs.

“We’re making it easier to do your Christmas shopping, enjoy a day out with the family or experience outdoor dining at one of Melbourne’s many amazing restaurants and cafes.”

Parking in Melbourne usually costs between $4 and $7, there are more than 11,000 spots available, with 52 per cent filled on average each day.

Map of the City of Melbourne boundary where free parking vouchers can be used until January 3. Source: City of Melbourne.

HOW TO USE

– Download and print the voucher through the council website and place on your dashboard.

– The voucher can only be used in the City of Melbourne municipality which includes Carlton, Carlton North, Docklands, East Melbourne, Flemington, Hotham Hill, Kensington, Melbourne, Melbourne West, North Melbourne, Parkville, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and Southbank.

– Free parking is only valid in green signed areas only until January 3 and cannot be used in red signed or disabled parking spots.

– Time limits, no standing zones and clearway signs must be followed.

– The time limit starts when your vehicle stops in the bay and not when you leave get out of the car.

– Do not park in bus zones, taxi zones or where signs indicate ‘reserved parking permit holders excepted’.

– You cannot park for an unlimited amount of time.

The council acknowledged there had not been discounts or encouragement for people to use public transport because some people felt less inclined to use public transport while the threat of COVID-19 loomed.

The free parking incentive will stay for just over a month to support businesses over the festive period.

The council has removed 274 car parks to increase bike lanes and a further 255 in use for extended on-street dining space.

To find out more about accessing free parking in Melbourne between December 1 and January 3 visit melbourne.vic.gov.au/parking

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