City of Gold Coast has launched a new campaign, urging drivers to leave accessible parking spaces for people who actually need them.
It comes after a motorist went viral for all the wrong reasons over the weekend, after a ute towing a jet ski was snapped parking across four disabled parking bays at a local Bunnings store.
Council has also released fresh data, showing more than 1,000 infringement notices were issued to drivers on the Gold Coast in 2025-26 for parking in the spaces without a permit.
Acting Mayor Mark Hammel urging locals to respect the rules.
“Accessible parking bays provide extra space for mobility aids such as wheelchairs and ramps,” Acting Mayor Hammel said.
“When someone without a permit uses these spaces, or blocks the access zone beside them, they can prevent people living with disability from safely entering or exiting their vehicle.
“What may seem like a quick stop or minor inconvenience can prevent others from participating in our community.”
Despite ongoing enforcement and education, the City continues to record a high number of drivers stopping in a parking area for people with disabilities.
“We can all play a part in making the Gold Coast a more inclusive city,” Hammel added.
“Walk the extra distance and leave accessible parking spaces for permit holders who need them.”
Surfers Paradise recorded the highest number of accessible parking infringements in 2025-26, followed by Southport and Broadbeach.
The fine for parking in a disabled parking space without a vaild permit is $690.
Top five suburbs for infringements in 2025-26
- Surfers Paradise – 304
- Southport – 250
- Broadbeach – 209
- Palm Beach – 112
- Coolangatta – 80
