Free 15 min parking to support take-away pick up


Released 03/04/2020 - Joint media release

The ACT Government is relaxing parking restrictions in various areas of the city to support Canberrans to collect take away food and services from local restaurants and cafes.

Canberrans are reminded that when leaving their household, they must not be gathering in groups no greater than two people excluding other household members.

Minister for Planning and Land Management Mick Gentleman said the new arrangements responded to calls from the community and would enable Canberrans to park for 15 minutes for free in restaurant and café precincts to collect takeaway food and drinks.

"This is a practical way we can make life a little easier for people during the COVID-19 pandemic. We have moved quickly to respond to a higher demand for short-term parking," Mr Gentleman said.

"Signs will start going up in areas such as Braddon, Woden, Belconnen and Tuggeranong attached to the existing parking signs.

"It's another way the ACT Government is working to support local jobs and businesses, particularly restaurants and cafes, as they diversify and adapt to social distancing requirements."

"Canberrans should arrange delivery of items wherever possible and practice physical distancing if they must leave their home to pick up essential items."

Minister for Business and Regulatory Services Gordon Ramsay said the government had also supported businesses, including licensed premises, through enabling take-away service offerings.

"I'm pleased to advise that as at today Access Canberra has provided 136 free three-month commercial liquor permits enabling businesses with an on-licence to provide takeaway alcohol.

"In addition, the team have supported 199 businesses through the new Business Liaison Line (6205 0900), providing compliance advice as well as information on how they may benefit from the ACT Government's Economic Survival Package and advice on diversifying their services.

"We know businesses are doing it tough and we are continuing to look for ways we can provide support while also balancing community safety."
Minister Ramsay said that to support safety and accessibility of parking in town and city centres, it was important that all parking signs were obeyed.

"Access Canberra will continue to apply focus in supporting parking compliance around pedestrian crossings, illegal parking which may cause line of sight safety issues, disability parking bays and no stopping and loading zones."

More information on COVID-19 is available at www.covid19.act.gov.au

- Statement ends -

Mick Gentleman, MLA | Gordon Ramsay, MLA | Media Releases


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