Commuters in Australia’s major cities are straining the already troubled public transport system, with parking becoming a significant issue. In Melton, a rapidly growing area located north-west of Melbourne, improvements to the infrastructure are anticipated. However, for many commuters, finding parking at train stations remains nearly impossible.
City of Melton Mayor Steve Abboushi acknowledges the urgent need for solutions in this area. He emphasises that seeking collaboration with all levels of government to develop necessary infrastructure is a top priority for local advocacy efforts.
Linda Allison, chief executive of the Urban Development Institute of Australia, argues that merely increasing parking spaces isn’t the solution. She suggests a more effective approach would be to enhance bus services, which are quicker to implement and can alleviate some of the immediate pressure on the transport system. She notes that buses provide a more agile service and are cost-effective compared to constructing new train stations or expanding rail lines.
Allison highlights the dual challenges Australia faces—not only a housing crisis but also an infrastructure crisis, which is a concern for many governments worldwide. She calls on authorities to intensify efforts to ensure communities across Australia have adequate access to needed transport facilities.
For now, those hoping to secure a parking space must arrive early.