The refunds are being issued in response to a misinterpretation of processing requirements for parking infringement appeals under the Infringements Act 2006.
Over the period, a number of Victorian councils delegating the review of some or all infringement appeals to third-party contractors, which was determined to be in breach of the Infringements Act.
In 2019 the City resolved to refund community members impacted by this issue. Investigations undertaken by the Victorian Ombudsman support this position.
Up to 6,400 infringements issued by the City of Greater Geelong are eligible for a refund, worth approximately $600,000.
It’s important to note that any infringements appealed or issued outside of 2009-2018, are not impacted by this refund program.
Letters have been sent directly to all community members eligible for a refund, via the address recorded with the infringement appeal.
Anyone who thinks they may be entitled to a refund can visit www.geelongaustralia.com.au/appealsrefund to find out more.
The following comments are to be attributed to Gareth Smith, Director Planning, Design and Development:
Unfortunately, this was a common issue for many councils across Victoria, with unique ramifications for each individual organisation.
Due to the City of Greater Geelong’s thorough audit processes, our inquiries found that only 11 per cent of the total 56,000 appeals received by the City during this period are affected.
It is worth noting that it was the processing of reviews that was in breach of the Act, not the application of the fine. All fines paid were fairly reviewed and found to be in breach of local laws.
We are confident that our current process for reviewing appeals against parking infringements is sound. All reviews and decisions of appeals against parking infringements issued by the City are conducted by the City’s Internal Ombudsman.
