Car space levy will be user-friendly: Brumby By Orietta Guerrera October 25, 2005 The AGE
THE State Government has moved to limit the political damage caused by its inner-city parking levy, promising that residents will not need to register private car parking spaces.
Treasurer John Brumby made the pledge after a briefing from the State Revenue Office.
The Age reported yesterday that thousands of residents and property owners in areas to be hit by the levy would be forced to register their car space even private garages and carports that are exempt or face the prospect of a $6000 fine.
Mr Brumby sought to clarify the registration process yesterday, saying the administrative burden on residents would be minimised. He said the revenue office would send out letters once the legislation before Parliament was passed.
Residents would receive a letter saying that unless they are renting their car space as a long-term car park, they are exempt from the levy and do not need to take further action.
However, those liable to pay the levy, such as commercial car park owners, would receive a letter stating they must register and provide further details about their parking spaces by January 21 or face a fine.
Advertisement
AdvertisementMr Brumby said about 2000 owners would be subject to the levy, which is due to come into force on January 1.
"What I've told the State Revenue Office is that we want this administered in a way which is as user-friendly as possible and the way to do that is through a deemed registration system," he said.
His clarification came as more questions were raised about how the levy would be imposed.
Melbourne city councillor Peter Clarke, a vocal opponent, wants council officers to audit crown land leased by the council to charitable organisations, concerned that groups such as churches may be slugged with the levy.
Shadow treasurer Robert Clark said it appeared Mr Brumby was making policy on the run. "He's coming up with a very convoluted procedure in order to get out of the fix he's got himself into by having an ill-considered law in the first place," he said.
The Government announced last month that a levy would be imposed on long-term car spaces in inner Melbourne from January 1. The fee will be $400 next year, doubling to $800 a year from 2007.