URGENT UPDATE: The City of Melbourne has officially reversed multiple parking fines issued to residents who were legally parked in designated bays. This decision comes after significant backlash from the community, particularly from local resident Toby Ralph, who highlighted the council’s error.
Residents expressed outrage after receiving fines for parking in a clearly marked bay on Mason Street in South Yarra. Many, including Ralph, have used these spaces without issue for years. Initially, the council stood firm, asserting that the fines were correctly administered, but this stance crumbled amid mounting pressure.
In an official statement, a spokesperson for the City of Melbourne confirmed, “We recently identified that three parking fines were mistakenly issued for stopping on a footpath. This was an isolated error — and we’ve withdrawn the fines from our system. We’re contacting the drivers involved to let them know.” This acknowledgment follows Ralph’s public appeal, during which he humorously created a mock ‘Mayoral Infringement Notice’ for $321.60, representing the time spent contesting the unjust penalty.
The council’s blunder is significant, as it reflects ongoing issues with parking enforcement in Melbourne. Earlier this year, Merri-bek Council admitted to overcharging motorists by approximately $12 million due to inflated penalties on 248,000 infringement notices issued since 2013. The latest parking debacle adds to the controversies that have plagued the city’s councils.
In recent months, Melbourne City Council faced criticism from the state ombudsman for its “overly rigid” enforcement tactics, including a situation where 1,200 drivers were fined for a typographical error in its parking app that confused the letter “O” with the number zero. Following public outcry, the council agreed to refund those fines as well.
As the City of Melbourne works to rectify this situation, residents are left relieved but wary of potential future errors. The council’s swift reversal of the fines showcases the power of community advocacy in holding local governments accountable.
Authorities urge all affected residents to stay alert for updates regarding their fines and to report any discrepancies they may encounter in the future.
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