Wyndham City will undertake an education and enforcement campaign to remind drivers to think before they park in a disabled parking bay without a permit, as taking the spot puts the independence of a permit holder at risk.
At present there are 4,168 active disability parking permits in Wyndham and in the last financial year 1,520 fines were issued for misuse of disability parking spaces, an offence that comes with a $204 fine.
Wyndham City’s campaign promotes that disabled parking spots are not VIP parking. These bays are designated for those with disability who need to enter and exit their car safely.
A disabled parking space is essential for people with a permit to access their destination. The campaign highlights that these outings are often carefully planned to manage fatigue and discomfort. It urges drivers to refrain from using disabled parking spaces without a valid permit.
Wyndham City parking officers already monitor Council owned car parks and car parks that are privately owned, where there are agreements in place. Council is open to establishing further agreements where appropriate to help strengthen the protection of disabled parking bays for people with valid permits, where reasonable and practicable.
The campaign aims to help drivers think before they park and consider how important these spaces are for people with disability – as all residents in Wyndham should have the opportunity to fully participate in their community – be it a trip to buy groceries or use services, work, study or to socialise.