The Shopping Centre Council of Australia (SCCA) has expressed support for the proposed changes to Victoria’s congestion levy, saying that they show a “sensible” consideration for the retail sector.
The changes are part of the State Taxation Further Amendment Bill 2025 recently introduced by the Victorian Government.
These include a 50 per cent concession (subject to certain terms and conditions) for retail parking spaces across the ‘Category 2′ congestion levy area, and also carve out Victoria Gardens shopping centre from the levy’s application.
The government is also moving the Queen Victoria Market from the ‘Category 1’ levy area to the ‘Category 2’ area.
The amendments come after months of discussions between the SCCA and the government.
The council has provided detailed analysis, modelling and costs on relevant car parking, cost of living and retail market issues. It also proposed a full exemption from the congestion levy in the Category 2 area, similar to that at Bondi Junction, Chatswood and Parramatta under the NSW parking levy scheme.
“We thank the Victorian Government for their engagement with our industry over several months, and for proposing sensible concessions and carve-outs for certain retail parking spaces,” said Angus Nardi, CEO of the SCCA.
“Shopping centres and retail parking spaces are completely different to other types of parking spaces, including being short-stay and high-turnover for retail customers; along with there being a close link with cost-of-living issues to buy groceries and essentials,” he added.
The SCCA will continue further discussions with the government and other stakeholders for further improvements on the Bill and retail parking space concessions.
Add comment