Why Victoria’s parking reforms are good news for schools

Recent changes to Victoria’s Planning Schemes mark a clear shift toward transport responsive planning, and they bring practical benefits for schools that play an active role in their local communities.

From December 2025, car parking requirements are better aligned with access to public transport. Sites are now grouped into four categories based on how well they are served by public transport, with lower minimum parking rates in well connected locations. This approach supports more efficient use of land and encourages schools to think beyond the school day, particularly where facilities are shared with the wider community.

Importantly for schools operating as community hubs, parking rates for complementary community, sports and arts uses have been reduced. This makes it easier for schools to host after hours activities, weekend sport and cultural events without triggering excessive parking requirements that can limit site flexibility.

The reforms also simplify parking provision across school types. A consistent, employee based parking rate now applies to all school year levels, removing the requirement to provide on site drop off and pick up spaces for early learning centres. This provides schools with greater freedom to design safer, more functional sites that balance operational needs with community access.

Pleasingly, there is no maximum cap on parking for schools, even in areas with excellent public transport access. This means schools can still provide additional staff parking or dedicated drop off areas where they are genuinely needed, without requiring additional planning approval. This flexibility is particularly valuable for larger campuses and schools that support shared community use outside core hours.

View more on the car parking requirements and categories here. 

Key car parking changes for schools include:

• Around half the previous staff parking requirement in public transport categories 2 and 3, where many schools are located.
• A consistent parking rate for primary and secondary schools.
• Lower childcare parking rates in key public transport corridors and major suburban centres.
• Reduced parking rates for external community uses, such as hired sports or performance facilities, with maximums applied in some cases.

With further changes to planning pathways expected and bicycle parking reforms anticipated by mid 2026, now is a timely opportunity for schools to review their sites holistically. Thoughtful planning can support day to day school operations while strengthening the role of schools as accessible, well connected centres of local activity.

Get in touch with our Education and Transport experts to explore how we can work together.