FRASER Coast Regional Council is set to trial Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology at three schools and in high-use residential areas to enhance safety for children and residents.
Deputy Mayor Paul Truscott announced that the trial will involve fixed cameras at schools and mobile cameras in residential zones to make school drop-off and pick-up safer.
“School zones are busy, especially during peak times with many children who may not fully grasp road dangers,” he explained. “Council’s Parking Compliance team regularly receives complaints about illegal parking, creating risks for children and drivers.
School car parks fall under Council’s regulation, unlike other areas managed by the State Government. Since June 2024, Council has logged 306 parking complaints, averaging 77 per month.
Rangers often face confrontations with aggressive parents over parking violations. This technology will help enhance safety and efficiency.”
The School Safe Parking Program aims to reduce traffic congestion, accidents, and promote responsible parking around schools. The trial will use AI-powered technology to detect and record illegal parking in high-complaint areas.
The initial phase will start at St Helens State School in Maryborough in Term 1, 2025, followed by Hervey Bay State High and Kawungan State School. After camera configurations are confirmed, the full program will roll out by the end of Term 1, 2025.
The Council will also trial a SafePark Mobile Camera Vehicle for inner-city monitoring. This vehicle, operated by a parking officer, includes high-definition cameras, GPS, and a video processing server to record non-compliance. Violations will be reviewed by an authorised officer to decide if an infringement is warranted.
“This technology has proven effective in other areas like Ipswich, Sunshine Coast, Logan, and Brisbane,” Cr Truscott added. Residents are encouraged to follow parking rules to avoid fines.
Council is also upgrading parking technology at Hervey Bay Airport with new camera monitoring to improve safety and comfort. Visit www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/parking-regulations for more details.
