UPDATE: Less than 2% of recipients of potentially wrongly issued parking fines in Merri-bek have sought compensation since a refund scheme launched on July 1, 2023. Despite expectations for a significant influx of applications, only 3428 claims have been submitted, leading to approved payments of merely $106,000 just three weeks into the initiative.
The Merri-bek Council disclosed a critical overcharging error affecting an estimated 250,000 parking fines issued over a twelve-year period. The council mistakenly fined motorists 0.5 penalty units for various minor offenses instead of the correct 0.2 penalty units. This blunder resulted in overcharges ranging from $43 to $59 per fine.
The refund scheme was designed to assist those who may have been wrongfully charged. However, only 2491 applications have been finalized, with 87% approved for refunds. The remaining 303 were rejected due to ineligibility, while another 937 are pending further documentation or processing.
Cathy Henderson, the council’s chief executive officer, stated, “We have designed the scheme to be quick and easy to use.” She emphasized the council’s commitment to refunding eligible motorists swiftly and transparently. Eligible applicants receive an email confirmation once their claims are validated, with payments expected within 21 days.
In a concerning turn of events, the state government has confirmed it will not intervene in the matter. Nick Staikos, the Minister for Local Government, stated that while he is aware of the issue, it is up to the Merri-bek Council to resolve the situation independently. The government expects the council to act “in good faith” to compensate affected residents as needed.
Despite the council’s efforts to promote the refund scheme through various communication channels, public response has been tepid. This lack of engagement raises questions about public awareness and trust in the council’s management of parking fines.
Anyone affected by these fines is urged to act quickly, as the window for refunds may not remain open indefinitely. For those with additional concerns regarding council decisions, contacting the Victorian Ombudsman is an option.
As this situation develops, the Merri-bek Council faces the challenge of rectifying this significant error, with potential liabilities estimated between $10.7 million and $14.7 million. The urgency of the matter cannot be overstated, as many motorists may still be unaware of their eligibility for refunds.
Stay tuned for further updates as we monitor the situation closely.
