The City of Hobart has become the first Tasmanian council to launch a live online parking map, showing real-time availability across the city’s car parks and on-street spaces.
The new ‘Park My Ride’ system uses in-ground sensors that update every 15 seconds to display only available parking spaces, helping drivers find spots quickly and reduce traffic congestion.
Covering nearly 2000 on-street bays and six multi-storey car parks, the map provides access to over 4000 parking spaces throughout the city.
Acting Lord Mayor Dr Zelinda Sherlock said the initiative comes at a crucial time for retailers.
“The map will be beneficial to not only regular Hobart commuters, but to business owners and visitors as well,” Sherlock said.
“Especially coming into the Christmas period, finding a park for shoppers is essential for those needing to make quick stops to purchase their gifts from local businesses.”
The system also highlights over 40 accessible parking bays, making it easier for all users to plan their journeys according to their specific needs.
Developed by the City’s Transport and Business Intelligence teams, the map includes details on permitted stay times, street view functionality and navigation tools in one platform.
Confederation of Greater Hobart Business Chair Edwin Johnstone welcomed the initiative.
“Smarter parking management systems are vital for the future viability of CBD businesses,” Johnstone said.
“Less time looking for parking means more time spent in local shops, cafes, and restaurants.”
The map displays live availability for major car parks including Argyle Street (1,133 spaces), Centrepoint (782 spaces), and Hobart Central (462 spaces), along with smaller facilities.
The council is encouraging users to add the map to their phone home screens but is reminding drivers not to use it while driving for safety reasons.
