The new procedures are based on strict compliance with Territory Traffic Regulations and it is hoped that earlier removal of abandoned vehicles will prevent subsequent damage from occuring.

“All vehicles that are left in hazardous places or deemed to be illegally parked, whether they be registered or unregistered, will now immediately be removed,” said Eric Peterson, Alice Springs Town Council’s acting Chief Executive Officer.

Previously all registered vehicles not left in a hazardous area, regardless of whether they were parked legally or not, were given a lengthy seven day grace period, and unregistered vehicles were given 24 hours.

“Under the amended procedures, a legally parked registered vehicle can still remain there for seven days before removal, however an illegally parked registered vehicle will now be given a 24 hour grace period in accordance with Territory Traffic Regulations, instead of the former seven days,” Mr Peterson said.

“Another major change means any unregistered vehicle, regardless of whether it is legally or illegally parked, will now now be removed immediately,” Mr Peterson said.

“Through earlier removal, Council feels damage to cars left in public spaces will lessen, and the detrimental effect this type of vandalism can have on perceptions of both residents and visitors will also decrease,” said Mayor Fran Kilgariff.

“It will also mean that owners of vehicles left in public spaces could be spared major financial losses if their vehicle was subject to vandalism and arson,” said Mayor Kilgariff.

Council will continue to charge a release fee to owners of impounded vehicles which goes toward recovering towing costs involved with the removal of abandoned vehicles.

For further information contact:

Mayor Fran Kilgariff (08) 8950 0525 or 0419 376 060

ASTC A/g Chief Executive Officer Eric Peterson (08) 89500517 or 0419825467

ASTC Media Officer Fionn Muster (08) 89500546 or 0417884449