NSW To Hand Out Demerit Points To Disabled-Parking Cheats

Drivers in New South Wales who illegally park in spaces reserved for the disabled will soon face a demerit point penalty, along with the existing fine.

A single demerit point will now be added to an offender’s record when they misuse a disabled parking space, and the fine is $519.

Other states - including Queensland and Western Australia - have sought to discourage able-bodied motorists from using disabled spaces by increasing fines in recent years.

But NSW is the first to implement the additional discouragement of a demerit point penalty, which Roads Minister Duncan Gay says will stamp out the “irresponsible and rude” practice.

“I have made it very clear I’m outraged by able-bodied people who steal disabled car parks just to make their life easier,” Mr Gay said.

“These people selfishly deny vulnerable members of our community close access to buildings and sufficient room to get in and out of their vehicles - they are low-lifes, simple.”

Laws