Horsham Rural City Council has officially resolved to discontinue the use of parking meters in the Central Business District, following overwhelming community and business support for free two hour parking.
The decision follows extensive public engagement, with over 1800 responses from residents and visitors, and a separate survey of 73 local business owners. Council suspended parking meter operations in December 2024 to trial free parking while reviewing the long-term future of the system.
Council's final resolution at the June Council Meeting means parking meters will not return to the Horsham CBD.
Instead, two-hour free parking will remain in signed areas, consistent with current arrangements. Parking time limits—such as 30-minute, 2-hour, and 4-hour zones—will continue to be enforced using traditional methods, including tyre marking and issuing physical infringement notices. Fines will also still apply for illegal parking in loading zones and accessible bays.
Mayor Cr Ian Ross said the community response was clear and Council was pleased to deliver a decision that aligns with the needs of residents, visitors, and local businesses.
"We have listened to the community and heard loud and clear that parking meters weren't just unpopular, they were difficult to use and no longer delivering value," Cr Ross said.
"By removing the meters and maintaining time-limited free parking, we're supporting accessibility, easing cost-of-living pressures, and encouraging more people to shop, dine and do business in our city centre."
"This is about making Horsham more welcoming, more accessible, and more competitive," said Cr Ross.
The community is encouraged to continue observing signed parking time limits to ensure turnover of spaces and fair access for all.
