The NSW government is working with councils over the introduction of an app that allows parking inspectors to see if a car’s time has expired and and enables drivers to pay for and manage their parking via a smart phone.

The government’s free Park’nPay app is currently being trialed in parts of Sydney.

Once the app has been downloaded, drivers can create an account with their number plate and payment details. The app notifies drivers when meters are expiring, or their park is about to turn into a No Stopping zone, so they can top up their account without returning to their cars.

Parking inspectors can search for number plate details on the app to see if a meter has been paid.

Launching the app last week, Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello described it as a game changer.

“This app is a game changer for drivers, eliminating the need to search for loose coins and walking to the nearest meter to pay for parking,” Mr Dominello said.

“Park’nPay will reduce the stress and pressures of getting a ticket from parking inspectors as you can check your meter in real-time,” Transport Minister Andrew Constance added.

Councils test the waters

Liverpool Council is the first council to adopt the app.

“Parking in the CBD is a major focus for Council and this year we’ve taken important steps to improve it,” Liverpool Mayor Wendy Waller said in a statement.

In August, the council rolled out Pay By Plate parking, where drivers enter their number plates into a meter to pay for their parking and are not issued a parking ticket to display on their car dashboards. This “paved the way for the Park’nPay app”, Cr Waller said.

The app is currently being used for meters operated by the state government in parts of Sydney including The Rocks, Darling Harbour and Pyrmont.

A spokeswoman said City of Sydney Council is investigating taking up the technology.

“Alongside other councils, the City is currently investigating the possible use of this technology,” she told Government News.

“The City welcomes all proposals to further improve efficiencies for our residents, visitors and businesses. We will continue to explore new opportunities and technologies.”