Paid parking in the Tamworth CBD will recommence in October 2025, after the old parking meters reached the end of their working life and were switched off in June.
The new meters were installed in September and will begin operating from Monday 13 October, 2025. The meters are cashless and ticketless, meaning drivers no longer need to return to their vehicle to display a ticket after paying.
The new meters are simple to use. Drivers will need to:
1. Press the start button
2. Enter their vehicle's number plate
3. Select the length of time they wish to stay (available in 15min increments)
4. Tap their card or smart device to pay
Payment methods include debit or credit card, or alternatively using the EasyPark app. For those who prefer cash, prepaid Visa or Mastercard gift cards can be purchased from Australia Post or major supermarkets and used at the meters like a regular credit or debit card.
Alongside the introduction of the new meters, changes to some parking zones across the CBD will start rolling out from Thursday 2 October, including increases from two hours to three hours in selected parking zones and the introduction of compliant accessible parking spaces and loading zones. Drivers are encouraged to take note of signage when parking.
The Tamworth Regional Parking Strategy - adopted by Councillors in February - aims to increase the availability of different types of parking to meet the needs of drivers across the region. It includes a mix of free and paid parking as well as different periods of timed parking, parking for people with a disability and long vehicle parking.
Council staff will be holding a pop-up in Fitzroy Plaza on Thursday 9 and Friday 10 October from 9am to 11am to answer any questions drivers may have before the meters are operational. Staff will also be in the CBD on Monday 13 and Tuesday 14 October to assist motorists who are still unsure on how to use the meters.
