Opinion: The Wisdom of Prompt Consequences in Parenting and Parking Fines
A fundamental principle in parenting—and indeed in dog training—is to administer consequences as soon as possible after the misdeed occurs. The effectiveness of discipline wanes significantly if there’s a lengthy delay before addressing the behaviour. This principle raises questions about the New South Wales (NSW) government’s approach to issuing parking fines, which can arrive in the mail weeks after an incident.
This unusual policy change, implemented five years ago with little public awareness, allowed parking officers to issue fines at a later date without providing on-the-spot notifications. This shift often left drivers startled when they received unexpected fines, making it challenging to contest them effectively. Without immediate feedback, drivers had limited ability to gather evidence that could support their case. If obscured signage or ambiguous regulations were involved, they would have little recourse to dispute the fine long after the supposed infraction.
Compounding the issue, the reinstatement of fines without immediate notification saw a dramatic rise in the number of issues recorded while the rate of challenges significantly declined. This boon for local councils’ revenues posed significant drawbacks for drivers who found themselves unfairly penalised.
While many parking fines are justified, instances do arise where the enforcement is questionable, or where a driver may have a valid reason for their actions. Moreover, confusing signage that varies according to time can seem intentionally misleading, adding to the frustration experienced by drivers.
Fortunately, the NSW government has opted to revert to a more sensible approach by reintroducing immediate ticket issuance by parking officers. Under this revamped system, drivers will be required to receive a ticket at the time of the offence, along with a notification of the fine within seven days. This move aims to minimise the element of surprise associated with delayed fines, thereby restoring fairness and transparency to the process.
This change is a welcome shift that prioritises clarity and understanding in the enforcement of parking regulations—ensuring that motorists are not caught off guard by fines that arrive long after the original infractions. The re-establishment of on-the-spot ticketing is a sensible step in making the system more accountable and respectful towards drivers.
In conclusion, timely consequences for unwanted actions—whether in parenting or parking—prove vital for fostering fairness and comprehension. As the NSW parking fine policy adapts, it reflects a broader recognition of these essential principles.
Deb Knight is the host of Money News on the Nine Radio network. Starting July 21, she will also present the 9News morning and afternoon news on Channel 9 and 9Now.