better used for housing, cycling infrastructure and safer public spaces. A growing debate is underway in Brisbane over whether the city should continue dedicating large amounts of public space to free kerbside parking. The discussion follows a report by the Grattan Institute and commentary from urban planning experts, who argue that Brisbane has an “emotional attachment to parking” that may be limiting opportunities to create more housing and improve transport options.

The report found that mandatory parking requirements can add more than $100,000 to the cost of constructing a typical two-bedroom apartment in Brisbane. Brisbane Times +1 Experts say many on-street parking spaces are underutilised and that some could be converted into bike lanes, wider footpaths, bus priority lanes or green spaces without significantly harming local businesses. Similar changes in other cities have helped improve walkability and reduce congestion.

Supporters of reform argue that reducing free street parking and charging more accurately for high-demand spaces could encourage greater use of public transport and make inner-city neighbourhoods more liveable. Opponents, however, say convenient parking remains essential for residents, shoppers and small businesses. The debate highlights a broader challenge for Brisbane as it prepares for rapid population growth and the 2032 Summer Olympics, balancing the needs of drivers with calls for more sustainable urban development.