Support is available to apply for Accessible Parking Permit

Ararat Rural City Council is reminding residents that Victoria’s accessible parking permit system has changed, and older-style permits are no longer valid under the current statewide scheme introduced in 2021.

Council’s Community Safety Team, which helps ensure parking spaces are used fairly and for the correct designated time in Ararat, have been taking an ‘education-first’ approach.

“Officers have been issuing friendly warnings first to drivers displaying outdated permits, rather than defaulting to fines, to help raise awareness of the requirements,” said Chief Executive Officer, Dr Tim Harrison. “But after five years, we really need to get long-time permit holders to change over to the new system, which has more benefits to them.”

The scheme features a single, standardised permit across Victoria with QR code verification, making it easier to confirm permits are valid. It also reduces misuse and centralises applications and records, helping ensure accessible parking is available for those who genuinely need it.

Dr Harrison said people who needed help with the online application process for an Accessible Parking Permit could ask a family member, friend or carer to help.

“And, although Council no longer issue permits directly like they used to, our Digital Literacy Support Officer at the Ararat Library can certainly help people fill out the online form, especially older residents and people without internet access,” he said.

Please hand in old permits to Council Customer Service as they are the property of council and need to be officially cancelled.

To apply for a new permit, visit www.accessibleparking.vic.gov.au to start the process, which is then completed in liaison with your GP.

To make a time to see the Digital Literacy Support Officer, please call into the Ararat Library or call 5355 0232.