The Future of Parking Automation in Australia
Parking technology in Australia has changed more in the last five years than it did in the previous twenty. From ticketless entry to mobile payments and Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, our car parks are quickly becoming part of a wider ecosystem of smart, low-touch city technologies. As expectations shift and operators look for ways to work more efficiently, the move toward fully automated ANPR parking systems is strengthening.
So what does the future look like for parking automation in Australia? Let’s break down the key trends shaping the next wave of upgrades and improvements.
AI-Driven ANPR Is Becoming the New Normal
ANPR, or Automatic Number Plate Recognition, isn’t new, but its accuracy and speed have improved dramatically. With AI-enhanced recognition, cameras now read plates faster and in more difficult conditions, which makes entry and exit smoother for drivers.
In practical terms, this means a genuine drive-in, drive-out experience. No tickets. No tapping buttons. No winding down windows on a cold morning. The system simply recognises the number plate, checks permissions and opens the gate.
Parkezi already works with high-accuracy ANPR systems and cloud-based software that connects the entire parking journey. As more car parks upgrade to AI-assisted recognition, this style of low-touch access is quickly becoming what drivers expect everywhere they go.
Cloud Parking Management Is Taking Centre Stage
Traditional car park systems require local servers, on-site support and regular maintenance. Cloud parking management is changing that completely.
With cloud-connected systems, operators can monitor occupancy, revenue, entry logs and issues from anywhere. This helps facilities run more smoothly, especially multi-site portfolios like councils, shopping centres and mixed-use precincts.
Operators want to reduce overheads, and cloud software gives them control without needing staff on the ground for every issue. Parkezi’s cloud platform already supports real-time monitoring, remote diagnostics and frictionless access control, making it the backbone of modern parking operations. Unlike many other parking systems, with Parkezi, 100% of revenue goes direct to the carpark owner.
Contactless Payments Are Replacing Traditional Machines
Drivers are used to tapping their phones, watches and cards for almost everything. Parking is no different. Contactless payments and mobile checkout options are steadily replacing bulky pay stations that cost thousands to maintain and often break down at the worst time.
This shift means:
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QR codes and tap-and-go have become standard payment methods
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Mobile receipt delivery replaces paper based receipts
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Faster exits and fewer disputes
When drivers have the option to pay on their phone or automatically through their licence plate, there’s no need to stop at a payment machine at all.
Parkezi’s Express Pay and Scan & Go systems are designed for this transition, allowing operators multiple options to collect revenue without slowing down the customer experience.
Data-Driven Pricing Improves Revenue
Parking pricing in Australia is starting to resemble airline and rideshare models. With better data on peak periods, repeat visits and dwell times, operators can adjust pricing in a way that’s fair to customers while maximising occupancy.
More operators now use:
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Demand-based pricing
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Cheaper off-peak periods
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Event-based tariff adjustments
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Discounts for short stays
ANPR systems paired with cloud software give operators accurate insights, helping them make decisions based on real usage rather than assumptions. Parkezi’s reporting tools support this kind of data-led planning, making it easier for operators to improve turnover and reduce congestion.
Hardware Is Becoming Lighter, Greener and Easier to Maintain
Car parks used to rely on big, mechanical machines that jammed, wore out and needed constant servicing. Today’s technology is cleaner and more efficient with fewer moving parts, lower energy use and reduced paper waste
This shift also supports environmental targets by reducing idle time, cutting emissions and improving air quality in busy areas.
Parkezi installs next-generation hardware that pairs seamlessly with cloud platforms, which means less downtime and a smoother experience for drivers.
Privacy and Compliance Remain a Priority
As Australia moves deeper into data-driven parking systems, privacy matters more than ever. Operators must handle licence plate data responsibly and comply with the Australian Privacy Act.
Parkezi’s systems follow privacy-by-design principles, ensuring both operators and visitors feel confident that their data is handled correctly.
Preparing for the Future Today
The future of parking automation is already here. From ANPR access to cloud-based dashboards and contactless payments, Australian operators are moving toward smarter, cleaner and more efficient systems.
If you’re looking to modernise your car park, Parkezi can help you make the shift with practical, easy-to-use technology that improves both customer experience and operational performance. Contact us today.
