Students stand to save hundreds of dollars a year with Deakin University bowing to a decade of pressure, proposing to axe car parking fees at its Warrnambool campus.
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The proposal comes after months of uncertainty surrounding the campus’ future in the region, due to declining student numbers.
Deakin made a commitment to remain in the south-west in October, albeit with course cuts and an unspecified number of job losses.
A Deakin university spokesman confirmed the free parking plan.
“Yes, in response to feedback, Deakin has amended the change proposal to convert all general parking at the campus to free parking for staff, students and visitors,” the spokesman said.
He said it was important to note this remained a proposed change and was not yet formalised.
The consultation period for proposed changes to the campus’ operations ends on Friday.
Campus management will then make a final decision.
General parking permit zones are currently $1.50 per hour, capped at a maximum of $6 per day.
A yearly parking permit for students is $275, while staff pay $440.
Deakin student and founding member of the #standbywarrnambool campaign Zoe Dyer welcomed the news, and urged management to go ahead with free parking for all.
“I feel it is important for students to have accessible, free parking at this campus because we have such low enrolments,” she said.