By Jim Child
We know that parking is a significant issue in the region.
Every long weekend, public holiday or just sunny Saturday, many of us experience the rush of tourists to the region – while also exploring our own backyard, or hopping across to the Dandenongs or through the Yarra Valley.
We’ve been working to trial paid parking – specifically for non-locals – on weekends and public holidays from 9am to 5pm in parts of Warburton:
Warburton Water World
Thomas Avenue, by the river
Warburton Highway, in front of the shops
Station Road
As part of this trial, which will begin in May, anyone living in the Yarra Ranges – including ratepayers who live out of the region – can apply for a permit, which will provide free parking.
For those who don’t live locally, the small fee charged for parking (which differs from place-to-place, to suit demand) will be reinvested into local projects to support the Upper Yarra community.
This project will run until July 2026, when we’ll review it.
Every household in the region can apply for up to three permits, which are linked to their car registration.
There is no physical permit, no stickers or signs you’ll need to display.
Our system will note vehicles with a permit and exempt them from fines in these areas.
It only takes a few minutes to apply, which you can do online at yarraranges.vic.gov.au/parkingpermit, call the dedicated hotline on 1300 456 050 and our team will help you out, or visit one of our Community Links to chat to our friendly staff.
This project will help us to manage traffic flow, increase parking spot turnover and generate money for local projects, while helping everyone to find a park a little easier.
Projects like this are a must as our tourist visitation increases year-on-year, while ensuring locals aren’t penalised for wanting to drive through their own region and visit the beautiful township of Warburton.
